Where is the station café?
BA-r — the Italian 'bar' is a café, not just a drinks bar. sta-ZIO-ne.
When waiting for a train and wanting a coffee or something to eat.
'Bar' in Italian means a café — a place serving coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and soft drinks, not just alcoholic beverages. Italian station bars are an institution — Italians rarely miss a coffee before a train journey. 'Della stazione' (of the station) specifies which bar.
C'è un bar aperto alle sei di mattina?
Is there a café open at six in the morning?
Italian station bars often open very early for commuters
Un caffè e un cornetto, per favore.
A coffee and a croissant, please.
The classic Italian station breakfast
C'è qualcosa di caldo da mangiare?
Is there something hot to eat?
Many station bars serve hot dishes at lunchtime
Italian station bars are cultural institutions — the espresso at a station bar before a long journey is a ritual. Major stations host famous bar chains (Autogrill at motorway stops, various brands at train stations) as well as independent operators. Coffee at a standing counter (al banco) is cheaper than at a table (al tavolo) — ask for 'al banco' to pay the standing price.