Mastering the art of Italian coffee drinking | How do Italians drink coffee?
Understanding how Italians drink coffee is key to truly appreciating this part of Italian culture. Whether you're visiting Italy or simply want to enjoy your coffee like an Italian, there are specific rituals, etiquette, and techniques to master.
Find out more about how to drink coffee the Italian way, and the art of making Italian coffee.
Read more about Italian coffee culture rituals and traditions.
Read when to drink different types of coffee in Italy.
Read the benefits of choosing Carluccio’s coffee.
We answer common queries on Italian coffee.
How do Italians drink coffee?
Italians typically start their day with a milky drink such as a cappuccino or latte macchiato, often accompanied by a pastry. As the day progresses, they switch to a shot of espresso, known simply as "caffè," to keep the caffeine boost steady and power through the working day. Unlike in many other countries, where coffee can be consumed in large quantities and on the go, Italians savour smaller, more potent servings. The local Italian coffee bar is a hub of social interaction, where regulars are greeted by name and the barista often knows their preferred coffee order.
Read our guide to drinking espresso the Italian way here.
A guide to Italian coffee etiquette
Navigating Italian coffee times and types
In Italy, the time of day dictates the type of coffee you should drink. Mornings are reserved for milky drinks, such as a cappuccino or caffè latte, and it is often frowned upon to drink milkier beverages later in the day. After 11 a.m., Italians switch to espresso-based drinks like a simple shot of espresso or a macchiato instead of a milkier cup of coffee.
Read about the Italian tradition of espresso after dinner here.
Enjoy a dark, exotic roast with Carluccio’s espresso di Napoli
Our Napoli espresso coffee has been blended and roasted in the traditional style of the master roasters of Naples, which is the darkest roast in all Italy using Arabica beans with a little kick of Robusta. This blend is rich, lively and well-rounded, presenting dark cocoa, smoky flavours and blackberry notes.
Our Napoli espresso beans can also be ground finely for use in an espresso machine. When ground coarse for use in a cafetiere, it can present flavours of cinnamon and cherry.
What are the cultural dos and don'ts in an Italian café?
Understanding the dos and don'ts of ordering and drinking coffee in Italy is essential. Here are a few key points:
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Do stand at the bar to drink your coffee if you want to avoid paying a higher price for table service.
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Don't order a cappuccino after breakfast time; it’s considered a morning drink. Read our guide to Italian morning coffee here.
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Do enjoy a glass of water with your espresso; it's often provided to cleanse the palate.
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Don't linger too long at the bar; coffee drinking in Italy is a quick, enjoyable break.
Read more about drinking espresso the Italian way here.
Understanding the Italian coffee menu
It can help to familiarise yourself with the different types of Italian coffees before visiting Italy:
- Espresso: A concentrated shot of coffee, the foundation of Italian coffee culture. Visit our espresso advice centre to find out more.
- Cappuccino: Equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam, traditionally enjoyed in the morning.
- Latte macchiato: Hot milk with a small amount of espresso, creating a layered effect.
- Macchiato: An espresso "stained" with a dash of milk.
- Doppio: A double espresso for those needing an extra caffeine boost.
- Caffè latte: A milky drink with more milk than a cappuccino, often served in a larger cup.
Why choose Carluccio’s?
By adhering to traditional Italian roasting practices and using only the finest beans, we ensure each cup of espresso is fresh and full of flavour. Additionally, we are also committed to responsible sourcing, ensuring that not only are our products of high quality but also ethically obtained.
Choose between our sweet and refined Milano blend, our rich and lively Napoli blend, or our intense, creamy and full-bodied Roma blend for notes of walnut, dark caramel and spice. For a gentle yet rich flavour, our Siena espresso provides aromatic hints of citrus and almond.
Enjoy a creamy, full-bodied coffee with our Roma blend
Roman coffee is known for its heavy lingering taste with a toasty, chocolatey, dark caramel and nutty profile, with a nod to the Ottoman Empire through its spiciness. Traditionally served very ristretto, with a lower dose of coffee and extracted hot.
Our Roma beans change in flavour profile depending on the grind. Grind “fino”, fine, for espresso for flavours of walnut, dark caramel and spice. Grind “grosso”, coarse, for a cafetiere and you will enjoy longer, softer flavours of almond, vanilla and milk chocolate.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most popular way to drink coffee in Italy?
Italians commonly stop at coffee bars for a shot of espresso, enjoyed quickly at the bar.
When and how often do Italians drink coffee in Italy?
Italians drink coffee throughout the day, often starting with a milkier beverage such as a cappuccino in the morning and switching to espresso thereafter. Italian locals often enjoy multiple coffee breaks, spaced out over the day.
Why do Italians give water with coffee?
A glass of water is often served in Italy to cleanse the palate before drinking coffee.
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