In some parts of the world the answer to this question would simply be “black coffee!”. In Italy, however, there are a lot of options and some are even the result of other cultures’ influences. Curious? Keep reading to discover them all!
Espresso lungo
This long or tall espresso is a standard espresso with the addition of more water. An Italian espresso usually employs 30 ml of water, while the espresso lungo employs 40 ml. It’s not quite as intense as a typical espresso but don’t be fooled, this type of coffee packs more caffeine than the regular because of the longer extraction time.
Caffè ristretto
On the other end of the spectrum is the ristretto, which has the same quantity of coffee as a standard espresso but less water (only 20 ml). This type of coffee is more concentrated and consequently more intense to the palate.
Espresso doppio
The double espresso, no surprise there, packs double the power of a standalone espresso. This type of coffee combines two espressos in one cup, as a barista, the best way to prepare it is to use one cup and the portafilter with two nozzles, way easier this way!
Americano
As mentioned earlier, Italy opened up to other countries’ influences and it’s now common to find people that would like this type of coffee, nicknamed after the way people in the United States drink their coffee. There is, however, a misconception that an “Americano” is the same as filter coffee: it is not! An Americano is made with one espresso, you simply need to fill the cup with hot water before and then pour the espresso on top.
Caffè filtro
That’s Italian for filter coffee, a type of coffee that’s prepared with a specific machine, not an espresso machine. It is a tall cup of coffee, quite watery and less intense.
