Are you someone who often has lunch after the usual lunchtime? Do you find yourself craving a meal between lunch and dinner? Well, you’re definitely not alone! Many people choose to have a late lunch, which is also commonly known by other names such as a mid-afternoon meal or a second lunch. If you’re curious about what a late lunch is called and why people opt for it, then keep reading to find out more!
The Names of Late Lunch Around the World
Late lunch is a common occurrence in many cultures around the world. The timing and name of this meal, however, vary depending on the region. In this section, we will explore the various names of late lunch around the world.
Merienda (Spain and Latin America)
In Spain and Latin America, the late afternoon snack is commonly referred to as merienda. This meal usually consists of a light sandwich, pastry, or fruit accompanied by a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. Merienda is a popular meal because it helps to bridge the gap between lunch and dinner.
Vespertine Snack (Europe)
Europeans refer to late afternoon snacking as a ‘vespertine snack’. Germans call it ‘vieruhrtee’ which means ‘four o’clock tea’. The meal typically consists of tea with a slice of cake, biscuits, or bread with butter and jam. In some countries, cheese and/or cold cuts are also included.
Afternoon Tea (UK)
Late lunch in the UK is more commonly known as afternoon tea or high tea. British afternoon tea consists of a pot of tea accompanied by a selection of sandwiches, scones, and cakes or pastries. The meal is served around 3-5 pm and is usually taken in a relaxing environment such as a tea room or hotel.
Chhi (Nepal)
In Nepal, late lunch is commonly referred to as chhi. Chhi usually consists of a bowl of rice or noodles with a curry or soup accompanied by pickles, chutneys, and salads. Chhi is a light and refreshing meal that is perfect for the late afternoon when hunger strikes.
Chahan (Japan)
In Japan, the late afternoon meal is called chahan. Chahan is essentially a Japanese-style fried rice dish with vegetables and meat or seafood. The meal is accompanied by a cup of green tea or miso soup.
Small Plates (Spain)
In Spain, it is common to have a light meal consisting of small plates of various dishes. This meal is called ‘tapeo’ and is typically had with friends or family over a few drinks. Tapas or small plates could consist of cold meats, olives, cheese, and seafood among other types of food.
Xiao Chi (China)
In China, late afternoon snacking is called ‘xiao chi’, which means small eats. Chinese small eats could consist of dumplings, baozi, and noodles among other types of food. The meals are typically accompanied by a cup of tea or another hot beverage.
Hapunan (Philippines)
In the Philippines, the evening meal is commonly referred to as hapunan, which is taken at sundown. This meal consists of rice, meat, and vegetables and can be accompanied by soup or fruit.
Mezze (Middle East)
The Middle Eastern late afternoon meal is called ‘mezze’. Mezze consists of small dishes of various foods that are traditionally shared among family and friends. The meal could consist of hummus, falafel, kebabs, and tabbouleh among other types of food.
Sandwiches and Tea (USA)
In the USA, late lunch is commonly referred to as a ‘tea sandwich’. Tea sandwiches consist of thin slices of bread and a variety of fillings that are usually served alongside a cup of tea. The meal is popular among women as a social event, where ladies are seen enjoying their meals at elegant tea rooms.
In conclusion, late lunch is enjoyed all over the world with different names and dishes. This diversity is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of every region.
What are the different names for a late lunch?
While “late lunch” is a common term for a meal eaten in the mid-afternoon, different cultures and regions have their own names for this meal. Here are some of the most popular alternatives:
Siesta
In Spain and many Latin-American countries, the traditional lunch/naptime breaks are known as “siesta.” This period usually falls between 2 pm and 5 pm when people take a break from work to go home and eat a substantial meal with their families followed by a nap or relaxation time.
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Linner
Another name for late lunch is “linner,” a term coined from the combination of “lunch” and “dinner.” Linner is essentially an early dinner meal and is ideal for those who eat a lighter dinner. The common time for linner is between 2 pm and 4 pm.
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Tea
In the United Kingdom, tea is a substitute for linner. The meal is typically taken around 4 pm and 6 pm and includes light snacks, sandwiches, cakes, and hot beverages. Afternoon tea is not only a meal but also a significant social event in the British culture.
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Merienda
The Philippines also has a special term for the mid-afternoon meal that translates to “snack.” Merienda typically includes a light meal or snack items such as sandwiches, pastries, or noodles accompanied by a hot drink like tea or coffee.
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Fika
In Sweden and other Nordic countries, “fika” is a significant social event that includes coffee and pastries. This meal is a time to reconnect with friends and family, socialize, and relax. Fika breaks usually take place around 3 pm or 4 pm.
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Pausa Pranzo
In Italy, the midday meal is the most significant meal of the day, and it is known as “pranzo.” However, when this meal is extended past the usual time, people typically refer to it as “pausa pranzo.” This meal may happen around 1 pm up until 3 pm and usually entails multiple courses.
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Kaffepaus
In Germany, “kaffepaus” or coffee break is a time for a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate and a small treat. This break can happen in the midmorning, but when extended past the usual time, it acts as an excellent substitute for lunch.
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Long-lunch
New Zealand and Australia call a late lunch a “long lunch,” and it is typically taken on Friday afternoons. This meal is a chance for colleagues to bond over food and drinks, discuss, and socialize in a relaxed, casual setting.
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Sopaipillas
In Chile, “sopaipillas” is a popular type of snack that is typically eaten as a late lunch. They are a type of pastry that’s fried and served hot with condiments like pebre, a traditional Chilean salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
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Bento Box
In Japan, a “bento” is a packed lunch box that typically includes rice, fish or meat, and vegetables. Creators of bento boxes can include a variety of ingredients in the compartmentalized box, and it can be an ideal solution for those who eat their lunch on-the-go.
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These are just some of the names given to a late lunch around the world. Irrespective of its name, it offers the perfect chance to take a break from the day’s activities and have a substantial meal while catching up with friends and family.
What are some variations of late lunch around the world?
Late lunch is not just a trend in one specific country, and it’s not solely a modern invention. The practice goes back centuries in some places, and there have been different versions of it across the globe. Here are some variations you might find interesting.
Siesta in Spain and South America
One of the most famous examples of this is the siesta in Spain and some South American countries. The practice dates back to ancient Rome, where people would take a nap in the afternoon before returning to work. In Spain, the break was traditionally used as a chance for people to rest and avoid the heat of the day before returning to their jobs. This often involved a light lunch, such as tapas (small plates) or a sandwich.
Merenda in Italy
In Italy, a similar tradition called “merenda” exists. This is a light meal or snack eaten in the late afternoon, between lunch and dinner. The food served varies depending on the region, but it can include sweet pastries, gelato, or a simple sandwich.
Fika in Sweden
This Swedish practice is not quite a late lunch, but it is a social break in the late afternoon that involves food and drinks. The tradition is an important part of Swedish culture, and it’s not uncommon to take a fika break at work or with friends. Coffee and pastries are typically served, but it can also include open-faced sandwiches.
Merienda in the Philippines
In the Philippines, “merienda” is a light meal or snack eaten in the afternoon, usually between lunch and dinner. This can include a variety of dishes, such as pastries, fruit, or savory snacks like lumpia (spring rolls). The tradition is an important part of Filipino culture, and it’s often served with hot chocolate or coffee.
Coffee break in Canada
While not exactly a late lunch, the Canadian coffee break is worth a mention. Many Canadians take a break in the late afternoon for a cup of coffee and a snack, often to recharge before finishing the workday. This can include a variety of sweet treats, and it’s a popular social time for many people.
| Variation | Country | Time | Food items |
|---|---|---|---|
| Siesta | Spain/South America | Afternoon | Tapas/sandwich |
| Merenda | Italy | Afternoon | Pastries/gelato/sandwich |
| Fika | Sweden | Late afternoon | Coffee/pastries/sandwich |
| Merienda | Philippines | Afternoon | Pastries/fruit/lumpia |
| Coffee break | Canada | Late afternoon | Coffee/sweets |
As you can see, the tradition of a late lunch or afternoon break is not unique to one culture or country. Whether it’s a siesta in Spain, a fika in Sweden, or a coffee break in Canada, people all over the world recognize the importance of taking a break and enjoying a small meal in the late afternoon.
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Satisfy Your Cravings with a Late Lunch
That’s all folks! We hope that now you have a clearer understanding of the terms that people use when referring to the late lunch. Whether it’s “linner,” “dunch,” “supper,” or “brunchfast,” the important thing is that you enjoy your meal. Don’t forget to share this article with someone who might be curious about what late lunch is called and come back soon for more interesting reads. Thank you for reading and happy dining!
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