Did you know that Italy is home to over 400 different types of coffee drinks, each with its unique blend, preparation, and tradition?
While many people are familiar with espresso or cappuccino, Italy’s coffee culture is incredibly diverse, and each region has its own take on coffee.
With the country’s rich history of coffee craftsmanship, it’s no surprise that Italian coffee drinks are considered some of the finest in the world.
Let’s dive into this fascinating world and discover the nuances behind Italy’s beloved coffee creations.
50 Italian coffee drinks
Here are the top 50 coffee beverages that you drink in Italy. Also explore the Popular Italian Drinks
1. Espresso
Espresso is the heart of Italian coffee culture. Made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee, it delivers a rich, concentrated flavor in just 1 ounce. It’s served in tiny cups, often sipped quickly while standing. With around 63 mg of caffeine per shot, it’s a morning must-have.
2. Cappuccino
A cappuccino combines equal parts of espresso, steamed milk, and foam, served in a 6-ounce cup. Italians usually drink it only in the morning. Its creamy texture balances espresso’s intensity. The artful foam layer often comes with beautiful designs, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
3. Macchiato
Macchiato means “stained” or “spotted” in Italian. It’s an espresso topped with a dollop of frothy milk. This drink highlights the coffee’s robust taste while softening the bitterness slightly. Perfect for those wanting espresso’s strength with a hint of creaminess, it’s typically served in small demitasse cups.
4. Caffè Latte
Caffè latte, or simply latte, combines one part espresso with two parts steamed milk. Served in a larger cup, it’s smooth and mild, perfect for leisurely mornings. With its creamy texture and less caffeine than espresso, it’s a comforting choice for coffee lovers preferring a milder kick.
5. Ristretto
Ristretto is a “short” espresso made with less water, making it stronger and sweeter in taste. It’s stronger than regular espresso but without bitterness. This drink packs a flavor punch in just 20-25 ml, ideal for those seeking an intense coffee experience in a tiny sip.
6. Americano
An Americano mixes espresso with hot water, making a milder coffee that’s similar in strength to drip coffee. With its smooth and diluted flavor, it’s a go-to for those who love espresso but prefer sipping a larger, less intense cup. Its name stems from American soldiers’ preferences during WWII.
7. Affogato
Affogato is a mix of dessert and coffee. A scoop of vanilla gelato or ice cream is “drowned” with hot espresso poured over it. The contrast between hot and cold, sweet and bitter, makes it a luxurious treat, often enjoyed after dinner or as an indulgent midday delight.
8. Caffè Mocha
Caffè mocha is a chocolate lover’s dream. This drink combines espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup, often topped with whipped cream. It’s indulgent, sweet, and satisfying, with the espresso providing a subtle kick. It’s a comforting choice for those who want dessert and coffee in one cup.
9. Corretto
Caffè corretto translates to “corrected coffee.” It’s espresso “corrected” with a splash of liquor, typically grappa, sambuca, or brandy. This drink is common after meals and adds a warm, boozy twist to the coffee. It’s popular in Italy’s colder regions and serves as a digestif.
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10. Shakerato
Shakerato is a refreshing summer favorite. Espresso is shaken with ice and sugar in a cocktail shaker until frothy and chilled, then poured into a glass. Its smooth, slightly sweet taste is a cooling delight on hot days. Some variations include liqueurs for an extra zing.
11. Marocchino
Marocchino is a layered treat served in a small glass. It starts with a base of espresso, a dusting of cocoa powder, and a layer of frothy milk. Its sweet and bitter flavor combination makes it perfect for a quick, luxurious coffee break, loved by chocolate and coffee enthusiasts alike.
12. Caffè Lungo
Caffè lungo, or “long coffee,” is espresso brewed with extra water, resulting in a larger, less concentrated drink. It retains espresso’s bold flavor but is smoother and more aromatic. Served in a larger cup, it’s a favorite for those who enjoy sipping coffee slowly without losing its intensity.
13. Latte Macchiato
Latte macchiato reverses the macchiato concept. Steamed milk is “stained” with a shot of espresso, creating a layered, visually stunning drink. Served in a tall glass, it’s creamy and light, ideal for those who love the comforting richness of milk with just a hint of coffee’s boldness.
14. Espresso Romano
Espresso Romano is a unique twist on espresso. A slice of lemon or lemon zest is served alongside or added to the espresso. The citrus enhances the coffee’s flavors, creating a tangy and aromatic experience. Though not traditionally Italian, it’s a favorite among adventurous coffee lovers worldwide.
15. Caffè Freddo
Caffè freddo is Italy’s take on iced coffee. Chilled espresso is lightly sweetened and served in a glass, offering a refreshing option for hot days. Its simple preparation highlights the pure flavor of espresso while providing a cool, energizing alternative to hot coffee.
16. Caffè d’Orzo
Caffè d’orzo is a caffeine-free alternative made from roasted barley. Its nutty, slightly sweet flavor resembles coffee but is milder and gentler on the stomach. Popular in Italian households and cafes, it’s a comforting drink often enjoyed by children or those avoiding caffeine.
17. Bicerin
Bicerin, a specialty from Turin, layers espresso, hot chocolate, and steamed milk in a glass. Its rich, creamy texture and harmonious blend of bitter and sweet flavors make it an indulgent treat. Traditionally enjoyed with a spoon, it’s a warm, luxurious beverage perfect for chilly afternoons.
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18. Caffè Ginseng
Caffè ginseng combines espresso with ginseng extract, creating a slightly sweet, herbal-flavored coffee. It’s popular for its potential energy-boosting and health-enhancing properties. Served in small cups, this drink is a favorite for those seeking a unique twist on traditional coffee with added wellness benefits.
19. Zabaglione al Caffè
Zabaglione al caffè combines espresso with a rich egg yolk and sugar custard, often served warm. This decadent drink-dessert hybrid is creamy, sweet, and satisfying. It’s a traditional Italian indulgence, perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat during colder months.
20. Espressino
Espressino blends espresso, steamed milk, and cocoa powder in equal parts, creating a creamy, chocolate-infused coffee experience. Served in a small cup, it’s slightly sweeter than a cappuccino and perfect for a mid-morning treat. Its rich flavor and velvety texture make it an irresistible choice for coffee lovers.
21. Caffè al Vetro
Caffè al vetro is espresso served in a glass cup instead of ceramic. Italians believe glass enhances the coffee’s aroma and flavor. The presentation allows you to appreciate its rich, dark color and crema. It’s a simple twist that elevates the coffee-drinking experience to something more refined.
22. Granita di Caffè
Granita di caffè is a refreshing summer treat. Made with sweetened espresso frozen into icy crystals and topped with whipped cream, it’s both a dessert and a coffee. Popular in southern Italy, especially Sicily, this slushy delight is perfect for hot afternoons or as a light after-dinner indulgence.
23. Caffè con Panna
Caffè con panna is espresso topped with a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy sweetness balances the espresso’s boldness, creating a smooth and indulgent drink. Perfect for dessert or an afternoon pick-me-up, it’s a luxurious choice for those seeking a touch of decadence in their coffee routine.
24. Caffè alla Nocciola
Caffè alla nocciola, or hazelnut coffee, combines espresso with hazelnut cream or syrup, giving it a nutty sweetness. Often served in a small glass, this drink is perfect for those who love coffee with a twist of dessert-like flavor. It’s a Neapolitan specialty enjoyed for its creamy, aromatic taste.
25. Caffè al Cioccolato
Caffè al cioccolato is espresso mixed with melted chocolate, creating a rich, velvety drink. This luxurious combination pairs coffee’s intensity with chocolate’s sweetness, making it a favorite for indulgent moments. Topped with whipped cream, it’s both a dessert and a caffeine boost in one delightful cup.
26. Caffè al Pistacchio
Caffè al pistacchio is a specialty coffee with pistachio cream added to espresso. This Sicilian delight offers a nutty, slightly sweet flavor with a velvety texture. Served in small cups, it’s a unique treat perfect for those looking to explore Italian coffee’s more creative and regional variations.
27. Caffè alla Cannella
Caffè alla cannella adds a touch of ground cinnamon to espresso or cappuccino, enhancing the coffee’s flavor with a warm, spicy note. Perfect for chilly mornings, this drink is both comforting and aromatic, offering a delightful twist on classic Italian coffee traditions.
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28. Caffè alla Nutella
Caffè alla Nutella combines espresso with a generous spoonful of Nutella, creating a rich and indulgent drink. Topped with whipped cream or milk foam, it’s a dessert-like treat that satisfies chocolate and coffee cravings in one. It’s a modern Italian favorite for sweet-toothed coffee lovers.
29. Caffè Latte Freddo
Caffè latte freddo is a chilled version of caffè latte, made with cold milk and espresso poured over ice. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for warm weather. This drink is ideal for coffee lovers who prefer a milder, creamy option that’s cool and satisfying on hot summer days.
30. Caffè al Caramello
Caffè al caramello combines espresso with caramel syrup, creating a sweet, buttery flavor profile. Topped with steamed milk or foam, this drink is a comforting choice for those who enjoy a dessert-like twist in their coffee. It’s often finished with a drizzle of caramel for added decadence.
31. Espresso con Schiuma
Espresso con schiuma is espresso topped with a thick layer of foam. This variation highlights the crema, emphasizing the texture and presentation. It’s a favorite for those who enjoy espresso with a slightly softer edge, making it a simple yet delightful way to savor traditional Italian coffee.
32. Caffè alla Vaniglia
Caffè alla vaniglia infuses espresso with vanilla syrup or extract, creating a subtly sweet, aromatic flavor. Often paired with steamed milk, it’s a comforting choice for those who appreciate a mild, dessert-like coffee. This drink is perfect for leisurely mornings or as a mid-afternoon treat.
33. Caffè alla Menta
Caffè alla menta is espresso combined with a hint of mint syrup, offering a refreshing and aromatic twist. The mint’s coolness contrasts with the coffee’s warmth, creating a unique flavor combination. It’s a perfect summer option for coffee lovers looking for something fresh and invigorating.
34. Caffè alla Liquirizia
Caffè alla liquirizia blends espresso with a touch of licorice extract or syrup, resulting in a distinctive, slightly sweet flavor. Popular in southern Italy, this drink is loved for its bold taste and digestive properties, often enjoyed as an after-dinner option.
35. Caffè alla Mandorla
Caffè alla mandorla, or almond coffee, combines espresso with almond syrup or almond milk. This drink is particularly popular in Sicily, where almond flavors are celebrated. Its nutty, slightly sweet taste is perfect for those seeking a dairy-free or dessert-like coffee experience.
36. Caffè del Nonno
Caffè del nonno, or “grandpa’s coffee,” is a creamy, cold coffee made with espresso, sugar, and cream whipped into a mousse-like texture. Served chilled, it’s a rich, indulgent treat, perfect for warm weather. Its name evokes nostalgia and warmth, making it a comforting favorite.
37. Caffè con Cioccolata Bianca
Caffè con cioccolata bianca combines espresso with white chocolate, creating a sweet and creamy drink. Often topped with milk foam or whipped cream, it’s a luxurious choice for those who prefer the milder sweetness of white chocolate paired with coffee’s boldness.
38. Caffè alla Rosa
Caffè alla rosa infuses espresso with rose syrup or rose water, offering a floral, slightly sweet flavor. This unique drink is perfect for special occasions or for those who enjoy experimenting with delicate, aromatic coffee variations. Its elegant profile makes it a sophisticated choice.
39. Caffè Amaro
Caffè amaro, meaning “bitter coffee,” is espresso served without sugar or milk. It highlights the pure, bold flavors of coffee beans and is a traditional choice for purists who appreciate coffee in its most unadulterated form. It’s the quintessential Italian way to enjoy coffee.
40. Caffè Marocchino Freddo
Caffè marocchino freddo is a chilled version of the marocchino, with espresso, cocoa powder, and milk foam served over ice. Its cold, creamy texture and chocolatey flavor make it a refreshing yet indulgent choice, perfect for summer afternoons.
41. Caffè Shakerato
Caffè shakerato is espresso shaken with ice and sugar until frothy, then strained into a chilled glass. Its smooth, refreshing texture makes it a summer favorite. Often served in elegant cocktail glasses, it’s both visually appealing and a delightful pick-me-up for hot days.
42. Affogato al Caffè
Affogato al caffè combines espresso with a scoop of gelato, usually vanilla. The hot espresso melts the gelato a bit, making a creamy, sweet treat. Perfect as a dessert or indulgent afternoon coffee, this drink-dessert hybrid is a quintessential Italian favorite for its simplicity and elegance.
43. Caffè Crema
Caffè crema is a longer espresso, similar to an Americano but creamier in texture due to a finer grind and slower extraction. Popular in northern Italy, it offers a milder flavor with a smooth finish, ideal for those who enjoy sipping their coffee leisurely.
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44. Caffè alla Sambuca
Caffè alla sambuca combines espresso with a splash of sambuca, an anise-flavored liqueur. Often served with three coffee beans symbolizing health, wealth, and happiness, it’s a traditional after-dinner drink with a unique, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with Italian desserts.
45. Ristretto Freddo
Ristretto freddo is a cold version of the strong ristretto shot. It retains the strong, rich flavor of a ristretto but is served cold, making it a refreshing option for those who enjoy bold coffee flavors even in the heat of summer.
46. Caffè alla Crema di Latte
Caffè alla crema di latte pairs espresso with thick, creamy steamed milk for a velvety texture. Its rich, comforting flavor is perfect for those who enjoy a coffee-forward latte. This drink offers a luxurious twist on traditional Italian coffee, ideal for a morning indulgence.
47. Caffè alla Mandorla Freddo
Caffè alla mandorla freddo is a cold version of almond coffee, made with chilled espresso and almond milk or syrup. Its nutty sweetness and refreshing temperature make it a summer favorite, especially in southern Italy, where almond-based drinks are widely celebrated.
48. Caffè all’Anice
Caffè all’anice infuses espresso with a hint of anise, offering a licorice-like flavor. This aromatic and slightly sweet coffee is a popular digestive drink, often enjoyed after meals. It’s a unique choice for those who appreciate bold, spicy coffee variations.
49. Cappuccino Freddo
Cappuccino freddo is the chilled version of the classic cappuccino. It combines cold espresso with chilled milk and a frothy milk foam topping. Served over ice, it’s a creamy, refreshing alternative for cappuccino lovers during warm weather.
50. Caffè al Miele
Caffè al miele, or honey coffee, mixes espresso with honey and a bit of steamed milk. The natural sweetness of honey complements the coffee’s robust flavor, creating a smooth and comforting drink. It’s a popular choice for those who prefer a naturally sweetened coffee experience.
Tips for Enjoying Italian Coffee
When it comes to enjoying Italian coffee, there are a few tips that can elevate the experience. As a coffee lover myself, I can share some insights that will make your next Italian coffee break truly memorable.
1. Choose the Right Coffee Type
In Italy, coffee culture is rooted in espresso. If you’re new to Italian coffee, I recommend starting with a classic espresso. It’s small but packed with flavor, usually served in a tiny cup. Italians typically drink their espresso quickly, savoring its rich taste. If you prefer something milder, try a “caffè macchiato,” which is an espresso with just a splash of milk.
2. Pay Attention to Timing
Italians have a particular way of drinking coffee based on the time of day. For instance, espresso is a morning staple, and it’s common for Italians to enjoy it standing at the counter. A cappuccino, made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam, is a breakfast drink, never consumed after 11 a.m. So, timing matters in Italy!
3. Embrace the Ritual
Drinking coffee in Italy isn’t just about the taste—it’s about the experience. Whether you’re at a local café or a bustling bar, coffee breaks are a social ritual. Take the time to relax, chat with friends, or even people-watch. Italians often enjoy their coffee while taking a few moments to disconnect.
4. Go for High-Quality Beans
Italy is known for its rich coffee culture, and the beans used are usually of high quality. Italian coffee blends often combine Arabica and Robusta beans for a smooth yet intense flavor profile. If you’re looking to bring a bit of Italy home, invest in high-quality beans to make your coffee as close as possible to the authentic Italian experience.
5. Mind Your Sugar
Italians are known for their minimal use of sugar in coffee. If you’re like me and prefer your coffee sweetened, start by adding just a little sugar—Italian coffee isn’t usually overly sweet. This way, you’ll be able to enjoy the complex flavors of the espresso without overwhelming them with sugar.
Conclusion
Italian coffee drinks offer a rich variety of flavors, textures, and experiences, from the strong kick of espresso to the creamy delight of a cappuccino. Whether you’re a fan of bold or smooth flavors, there’s an Italian coffee drink for everyone.
Next time you’re craving a coffee, why not try something new from Italy’s coffee culture? Discover the different types and enjoy the genuine taste of each drink.
FAQs
1. What is the most popular coffee drink in Italy?
The most popular coffee drink in Italy is espresso. It’s a small, strong shot of coffee enjoyed throughout the day, often after meals, and forms the base for other Italian coffee drinks.
2. What is an Italiano coffee drink?
An Italiano coffee drink typically refers to traditional Italian coffee, such as espresso or cappuccino, which are famous for their bold, rich flavors and simple preparation methods.
3. What are some types of Italian coffee?
Some popular types of Italian coffee include espresso, cappuccino, latte, macchiato, ristretto, and affogato. Each offers a distinct flavor, from the strong espresso to the creamy latte.
4. What is a traditional Italian coffee?
A traditional Italian coffee is an espresso, served in small cups and typically enjoyed without milk or sugar. It’s known for its bold flavor and rich, concentrated taste.