Etiquette at eateries on the Camino

[Darko1973]

Hi Folks,

I'm currently on the Camino Primitivo. My question is a simple and probably stupid one, but what is the etiquette for ordering food in the various eateries along the route? Do you just walk in, sit down at an empty table and wait to be served? There don't appear to any menu's either, is the one suitable to the time of day brought to you? I should mention that my Spanish is deplorable, I'm traveling alone and if I'm honest a a pretty shy and retiring individual - not a great combo!!! I've been managing just fine, finding food at various supermarkets along the way, even managed to get some paracetemol from a pharamacy too, but I would like to eat the occasional hot meal! All help and suggestions appreciated, except to grow a pair, that is part of what this trip is all about

Thanks and Regards,

Dar

 

[JohnnieWalker]

Hola Dar - I sympathise. If you say "hay comida?" (do you have food?) they will soon let you know. Pronounce "hay" as "high" and all will be well.

Let us know how you get on?

 

[fraluchi]

... what is the etiquette for ordering food in the various eateries along the route? Do you just walk in, sit down at an empty table and wait to be served?

It is customary to walk towards the service bar where you can place your order (as Johnny writes "hay comida?) Choose and take the order (if it is ready) to your free table. If not ready, sit down at table and watch service bar staff to call you when order is ready.
Mind that this varies from place to place. Just watch how other clients behave and what service staff is doing.
Buen provecho! :wink:

 

[peregrino_tom]

It may not be the correct way of speaking but "menu, por favor" seems to work pretty well too.
By the way, if you have not passed Salas yet, you must go to Casa Pachon which is just through the archway at the top end of the town.
When we were there last September not only did the owner serve fantastic food, but he will ply you with course after course until you beg to be given no more. On our way in we met two pilgrims staggering out the door way who tried to warn us, but we thought we were better than them!
The difficulty is if you are there at lunchtime and your destination is Bodenayas, you then have about a 3-400m climb afterwards

 

[Darko1973]

Thanks everyone for the advice! Just had a rather enjoyable meal, feeling like a new man, muchas gracias!!

Already gone by Salas, lovely town I may well visit again, if so I'll take up your recommendation Tom. Got to Berducedo today from Palo de Allande, decided to have an easier day rather than push any further. 4 days to Lugo and a rest day!