Coffee — A science
Italy did not invent coffee (that honor goes to Ethiopia and Yemen), but perfected it. The espresso machine (1884), the Moka pot (Bialetti, 1933), and the coffee bar culture are Italian contributions to civilization.
The Coffee Bible
- Caffè / Espresso — The standard: a short, strong shot. Standing at the bar: €1.10–1.50. At the table: €2.50–5.
- Caffè Doppio — Double espresso. For the morning after the morning after.
- Caffè Macchiato — Espresso with a spot (macchia) of frothed milk.
- Caffè Lungo — Extended espresso, more water, milder taste.
- Caffè Ristretto — Extra short, concentrated espresso. For purists.
- Cappuccino — Espresso + frothed milk + milk foam. Only in the morning! Max. until 11 a.m.
- Latte Macchiato — Lots of milk, little coffee. More for tourists and children.
- Caffè Corretto — Espresso "corrected" with a shot of Grappa, Sambuca, or Brandy. After meals.
- Caffè Shakerato — In summer: espresso shaken with ice and sugar in a cocktail shaker. Refreshing and elegant.
- Caffè d'Orzo — Barley coffee, caffeine-free. For the evening.
💡 Tipp
In Italy, you ALWAYS pay for coffee at the cash register (Cassa) and hand the receipt (Scontrino) to the barista. Not the other way around. And: Standing at the bar is part of the culture — and 50–70% cheaper than sitting.