Coffee holds a special place in Italy. The routines and rituals of daily life deeply ingrain coffee as a cultural staple. Firstly, in this blog post we are going to look at the art of drinking coffee in Italy and the rich history and traditions that come with it. Secondly, we’ll take note of the faux pas to avoid when ordering your favourite drink.
In Italy, every cup of coffee has a unique set of rituals and traditions! From savouring the intense aroma of freshly brewed espresso to indulging in a frothy, creamy cappuccino, for example. Italian coffee is one experience you won’t want to miss. Read on and discover the fascinating customs accompanying the beloved beverage in this vibrant and passionate country we call home.
The History of Coffee in Italy
Venetian Merchants introduced coffee from the East in the 1600s. In the present day, Italy has developed a unique coffee culture. For centuries, coffee has been essential to Italy’s social and cultural fabric. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Italian coffee houses called ‘Caffe’ became the epicentres of political and intellectual discussion. These provided a platform for thinkers and revolutionaries alike.
People celebrate Italian coffee all over the world. There’s a lively and exciting coffee culture, as can be seen in the shops on nearly every street corner serving delicious, rich espresso and frothy cappuccinos. Each coffee drink has its distinct flavour and history. Often enjoyed with a delicious pastry in the morning or after dinner with friends, coffee remains an integral part of Italian life and a huge source of pride.
Common Types of Italian Coffee
Italian coffee comes in various delicious forms. This handy guide will help you place your order and get the art of drinking coffee down to a tee. Pardon the pun!
A single shot of coffee is an Espresso. Caffè Doppio on the other hand, is a double Espresso, a coffee for the brave, served in a Cappuccino cup. However, If you prefer a dash of milk in your coffee, you should order a Macchiato (meaning ‘stained.’). An Espresso which comes stained with a small amount of milk. A Caffè Latte comes served in a tall glass with Espresso and steamed milk. A Cappuccino is made with equal parts espresso, foam, and steamed milk. If you prefer a longer drink, request a Caffè Lungo with a splash of hot water with your espresso shot. Need something stronger? Try a dash of grappa or Sambuca in your Espresso and ask for a Caffè Corretto.
Traditions and Rituals
Enjoying coffee in Italy is a chance to relax and catch up with friends. It’s a chance to take a break from a busy work schedule and enjoy a moment of calm. Located in the Piazza San Frediano is one of our favourite coffee houses in Lucca. Cafe Santa Zita serves the best coffee and pastries. We even shot our AW office bag campaign there (Internal link to office/men’s collection)
Some Customs You May Encounter
- Standing at the bar for an Espresso is a commonplace and social ritual in Italy. It’s a chance to chat with the barista and catch up with friends. Most coffee bars will charge more to sit down to drink your coffee.
- A shot of Espresso is an after-lunch ritual because it helps with that mid-afternoon slump or whenever a quick burst of energy is required. An Espresso though, is an absolute must after dinner, a cultural tradition and social activity enjoyed with friends and family. It aids with digestion after a heavy meal.
- Savouring a leisurely coffee break in the piazza with friends. In these circumstances, most people would order a coffee served in a larger cup to enjoy at a more leisurely pace. For example, ‘Caffè Americano’ (a shot of espresso diluted with hot water) or ‘Caffè Lungo’ (brewed with more water for a longer drink that is less strong)
- The Italian tradition of Caffè Sospeso embodies warmth and kindness. When ordering a coffee, you can also pay for an extra, called a ‘suspended coffee’, for someone who can’t afford it. When that person comes to the cafe, they can claim the coffee you paid for.
Faux Pas to Avoid
Overall, be mindful of local customs and traditions when ordering your coffee. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Be aware of the time when ordering a cappuccino, never after 11 am, for example. Milk-based drinks are reserved for breakfast only, as by and large, dairy is considered too heavy to consume later in the day and can hinder digestion. Therefore, if you do fancy a cappuccino in the afternoon, go ahead and place your order, but be prepared for an eye roll as a result!
Asking for a “latte”. Make this common mistake, and you get a glass of cold milk. Therefore, If you require a long milk-based coffee, order a ‘Caffè latte’ made with steamed milk and a shot of espresso.
Resist the temptation to add sugar to your coffee. Some purists believe that it masks the natural flavors of the coffee, resulting in a drink Italians would consider a sacrilege.
In conclusion, The art of drinking coffee in Italy is integral to the country’s cultural heritage. By following these local customs and traditions, you can experience this art form how it was intended to be enjoyed. So, next time you’re in the country, take a moment to savour a coffee and immerse yourself in Italy’s vibrant tradition.
