But First, Coffee. Ultimate Guide to Italian Coffee Culture!

From my little Italian vocabulary, “Buongiorno! Un cappuccino per favore” was one of my first phrases to learn while living in Florence.

Coffee cafes, called bars in Italy because the word “caffè” means coffee, are full regardless of the time of day. Cappuccinos are enjoyed in the morning and espressos after dinner; these are just some coffee tips you should learn before ordering your daily (or more than daily) dose of caffe!

Coffee Vocabulary:

• Caffè: This is equal to espresso. Although it is the direct translation to coffee in Italian, you will not receive filtered coffee. Generally, Italians say “un caffè” rather than “un espresso” when ordering an espresso shot.
• Cappuccino: Cappuccinos are Italy’s most popular coffee drink and my everyday morning go-to. The whole milk is frothed and placed on top of warm espresso: foamy and delicious.

TIP: Do not drink cappuccinos after 12 noon. Italians only drink cappuccinos and other milky beverages in the morning. They believe that milk can disrupt digestion and you will definitely look like a foreigner if you enjoy this drink after the morning rush is over!

• Caffè Macchiato: This is espresso with a little foamy milk placed on top.
• Caffè Latte: This drink is espresso with steamed milk and little foam.

TIP: Make sure to order a “caffè latte” and not just a “latte”. Lattes are just steamed white milk.

• Caffè Americano: This is the closest you will find to the filtered coffee we make here in the US. Caffè Americano is a mix between espresso and hot water. Apparently, Caffè Americanos were created during World War II when American soldiers diluted espressos with hot water.
• Caffè Lungo: Similar to a Caffè Americano but with less hot water. Therefore, a much stronger flavor!
• Caffè Freddo: Freddo means cold in Italian. Iced coffee is extremely uncommon and most of the time just found in bars frequented by foreigners. Caffè freddo is usually espresso that has been left out to cool.

Bar: Enjoy your coffee standing at the bar. Drinking coffee is a fast act in Italy; do not be surprised when you see Italians come and go within minutes. Also, drinking at the bar is less expensive than grabbing a table and a fun cultural experience!

Payment: In most cases, you will pay at the register and then bring the receipt to the barista who will then make your coffee. If you are seated, you will most likely receive the bill at the table. 

Remember: no coffee with milk after 12 noon or meals, pay prior to ordering your coffee with the baristas and never say espresso, but caffè instead. Most importantly, enjoy. Italian coffee is unlike any other country’s coffee. Savor those morning cappuccinos because Starbucks just doesn’t compare!