In Italy we are exceptionally passionate about coffee.  We have some strong traditions, many of which are quite different from the UK. Most of our coffee drinks are based on the espresso and it is very rare to find coffee brewed in a pot or a cafetierre.

Here is our guide to Italian coffee:

Caffe
This is an espresso, but we don’t use that term in Italy. The caffe will be served at a drinkable temperature and is meant to be downed instantly.

Caffe Doppio
A double espresso. Not as common as you might think, we tend to drink small amounts of coffee constantly.

Capuccino
The same as in the UK, the drink is made up of espresso, topped with steamed milk and froth. Milky coffee drinks tend to be drunk in the morning and certainly not after a large meal so don’t be surprised if the waiter looks at you strangely when you order a cappuccino!

Caffe Latte
A shot of espresso with hot milk. Traditionally the milk wasn’t frothed like it is in the UK, so if you’re looking for a white coffee this is the Italian version.

Latte Macchiato
This is much closer to a Café Latte. Served in a tall glass, the espresso is topped up with steamed milk.

Caffe Macchiato
A shot of espresso topped up with froth from steamed milk, usually served in a small espresso cup.

Caffe Macchiato Freddo
This is an espresso with cold milk served on the side.

Caffe Corretto
An espresso with a shot of liquor. Often used to get going in the morning (not that we’d advocate that of course!).

Caffe Americano
Our answer to drip coffee as you find in the US. Espresso filled up with hot water.

Caffe Completo
This really does sound like a dessert! Espresso topped with whipped cream and cocao powder.