sobremesa: Spanish (nf) while the literal translation is “over the table,” the actual meaning of the word is used to describe the time spent after a meal, lingering with family or friends, talking and enjoying each other’s company. The term can be applied to either lunch or dinner, and often includes family members, but also friends, and may even include a business lunch. It is time spent in conversation, digesting, relaxing and enjoying each other’s company without hurry. Sobremesa is not only reserved for weekends (although it can be longest on Sundays) but even weekday and business meals have sobremesa. For Spaniards, how they eat is as important as what they eat.¹
