Cafetería Central on Calle del Ejército Español is one of Melilla's most accessible budget eating spots, operating from early morning through to the evening with a no-frills menu that covers breakfast, midday meals, and light snacks. The bocadillo de jamón y queso — a long crusty roll split and filled with cured ham and cheese — is the most ordered item at any hour, requiring no kitchen time and delivering reliable satisfaction at low cost. A menú del día priced at approximately €8 offers soup or salad followed by a main course with bread and a drink — an exceptional price for a city-centre location. Fresh-squeezed juices including orange and seasonal fruits are produced in a machine behind the counter and are a consistent draw for morning visitors. The café occupies a corner site with large windows that keep the interior bright throughout the day, and the seating extends to pavement tables in clement weather. The clientele spans the full range of Melilla residents — workers, students, shoppers, and retirees — which reflects its position as a practical neighbourhood institution rather than a tourist venue.
Signature dishes
- Bocadillo de jamón y queso
- Menú del día (€8, ~$9)
- Zumo natural
Good to know
- Known for
- Budget breakfasts, sandwiches, coffee
- Hours
- Daily 07:00–22:00
- Reservations
- Not needed
Location
Calle del Ejército Español 8, 52001 Melilla
35.2929, -2.9399 View on map
Highlights
- Menú del día at €8 — one of the most affordable set lunches in Melilla's city centre
- Bocadillo de jamón y queso, the perennial favourite available throughout the day
- Fresh-squeezed orange and fruit juices made to order behind the counter
- Large corner windows providing a bright, people-watching atmosphere
- Open from 07:00, covering the earliest breakfast crowd through to evening
Tips for visiting
- The menú del día sells out by 15:00; arrive before 14:00 to avoid missing it
- Fresh orange juice is best ordered in the morning when fruit is at its freshest
- Pavement tables are pleasant in spring and autumn when temperatures are moderate
- The café is busiest 09:00–10:00 and 13:30–15:00 — expect slightly slower service at those times
- Carry cash — card payment facilities may be limited at budget cafeterías
Accessibility
The café is at street level with no steps from the pavement entrance. Tables are widely spaced and the counter area is accessible. Pavement seating is flat and suitable for wheelchair users.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cafetería Central appropriate for a quick breakfast before catching the ferry?
Yes — the café opens at 07:00 and the ferry terminal is within easy walking distance; a coffee and bocadillo can be assembled in a matter of minutes.
Is the menú del día served every day?
The set lunch is available Monday through Sunday; the specific dishes change daily and supply is limited, so arriving before 14:00 ensures availability.
Are there lighter options beyond sandwiches?
Ensaladas mixtas (mixed salads), fresh juices, and yoghurt are available as lighter alternatives to the bocadillo and set-menu format.