Ordering coffee in Italy is first and foremost very easy. Once you learn to play the game, and if you get the rules right and make your order, you will not only have seduced the whole caf but you will be drinking one of the best coffee you have had in your life. So drink up! The Golden Rules
Anytime after 11am don't ask for a cappuccino. Traditionally, Italians view anything with lots of milk as a morning affair so they would never order it after a meal. If you do ask for one they would get right on it but they'd definitely know.
Drink there. Drinking at the bar (al banco) is the usual and cheapest way to drink coffee in Italy.
Sitting down at a table will often cost you twice as much. In Italy, where they only use the word 'coffee', you simply have to ask for one and you'll get it; a shot of un espresso it comes in a small cup, downed in two or three gulps, usually accompanied by a glass of water to wash it down.
Don't spend ages over the espresso.
An espresso at the bar is a quick ritual order drink pay, leave. It's not a sit-down affair.
Caff class Also known as single cross, this is a standard espresso. Caff macchiato normal shot of espresso, but with a splash of foamed milk.
Caff corretto coffee, with a shot of grappa or sambuca (which is a drink of the morning in some areas) Caff lungo a longer coffee with a more watered down flavor Caff ristretto a less extended, more intense espresso.
Cappuccinoonly before 11am Caff freddohot shot of espresso with sugar, shaken with ice to make it cold; popular during summer months If makes the most convincing case for best espresso in Italy the water, the roast, the history, all come together to create something in Naples truly special.
Rome can be counted on. Trieste has its unique culture. Milan is fast and just as good. Explore our range of ItalTheme inspired blends at Global Coffee Haven.