# cafe

/kæˈfeɪ/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cafe
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Senses

### 1. coffee shop

noun · CEFR A1

a small restaurant where you can buy coffee, tea, and light meals like sandwiches or cake.

For teachers: an establishment that primarily serves coffee and other refreshments, often with a limited menu of light meals.

- We met at a small cafe near the station for a quick coffee.
- The local cafe has become a popular hub for freelancers who appreciate the quiet atmosphere and the quality of the artisan espresso.

Usage: Often spelled with an accent as 'café', though both versions are acceptable in modern English.

### 2. convenience store

noun · CEFR B2 · Dialect

a small shop that sells food, newspapers, and everyday items.

For teachers: a small retail store selling a limited range of household goods and groceries.

- I need to run to the cafe to buy some milk and a newspaper.
- In many South African suburbs, the local cafe remains a vital resource for residents needing to purchase basic supplies after hours.

Teaching tip: This sense is specific to South African English; in most other dialects, a cafe only refers to a place that serves prepared food and drink.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.