Coffee (caffè) in Italy is similar to its straightforward communication style. Once you order a few times you’ll find the menu to be pretty simple. The most important thing to know is that their coffee drinks are made with espresso, so if you order a caffè you’ll get an espresso which is stronger than ‘regular coffee’.

So strong that ordering a doppio (double shot of espresso) is pretty uncommon. Typical orders include…

Ristretto – more concentrated, less water
Lungo – less concentrated, more water
Macchiato – regular, topped with foamed milk

The shakerato will be your new favorite drink when the weather warms up and you need a pick-me-up. All it is is espresso shaken with sugar and ice – very refreshing and energizing! A nice, longer sip to enjoy while taking a shopping break in a nearby piazza. When asking around for a coffee shop, remember that they’re referred to as bars in Italy. But many bars have caffè in their name which makes it even easier to spot, and there’s no shortage of them if you happen to pass a few by accident.

You’ll notice people sitting, chatting with one another over drinks and sweets. It’s like the saying “Il dolce far niente” meaning the sweetness of doing nothing. People also drink at the counter where a caffè is usually cheaper than at a table. You might hear ‘al banco’, meaning at the counter.

In most restaurants, if you don’t ask for the bill they won’t bring it to you. The intent is not to pressure you to leave. You can continue your conversation unrushed, and ‘do as the Romans do’ by ordering a caffè. Try a caffè corretto if you’re stuck deciding between liquor or coffee. It’s a shot of espresso with a little grappa or sambuca added depending on the area. You’ll hear people gently saying, “Il conto, per favore!” meaning the bill, please!

If you order a latte, you’ll get milk and only milk. You may be asked if you meant caffè latte! And speaking of milk, you won’t be denied service but there’s an unspoken rule to not order a cappuccino after 11 AM. Milk-based drinks are super popular in the morning but are considered too heavy, or even too sweet, the rest of the day. If you want to stick to this rule, order a macchiato instead.

At home most people use Moka pots rather than the fancy machines you see at bars. The steps to using it seem simple but ask an Italian or barista about making the perfect caffè and they’ll describe it like a science. Simply put, you begin by twisting off the top of the Moka, then removing the filter and filling the base with water to line up with the steam opening. Then, putting the filter back in and filling it with the grounds. After, you’ll twist on the top and place the Moka on the stove. You’ll hear it when it starts brewing! Check that it’s almost full with caffè before removing.

If you’re craving traditional American coffee, we’ve got you covered! Ask for a caffè Americano which is made by diluting one or two shots of espresso with hot water, and add a little milk and sugar if you’d like. Since it’s still different from drip-coffee, try finding a brunch spot in a touristy area to feed your craving.