The cafe

In English, "cafe" refers mostly to places where meals are served, as well as coffee. In Dutch the word refers to a bar and is thus more associated with alcohol consumption. Also, in the Netherlands, the word coffee shop is used for places where marijuana is sold (the reason being that one needs fewer permits for a coffee shop). This usage of the word has also spread to other languages. In French, Spanish, and German, a "café" is typically a place that serves a wide variety of beverages, usually several types of coffee, tea, and often alcoholic beverages. There is also often a selection of desserts or light sandwiches and other snacks. In South African English cafe can refer to a convenience store rather than a place where coffee or other beverages are served. It should kept in mind, however, "cafe" can most likely be a shortened form of "cafeteria," i.e., a place where meals are served.