Welcome to Italy; the home of coffee culture; a destination where breakfast is incomplete without great coffee. As the saying goes: When in Rome, do as the Romans do. In Italy, when you request coffee, do not be surprised when you are served with a fresh shot of espresso, which is the Italian default for coffee.
Un caffe
A single shot of espresso.
Doppio
A double shot of espresso.
Ristretto
A concentrated espresso, made with half the standard amount of water.
Americano
A single shot of espresso with a cup of hot water added. The name was meant to mock the Americans who preferred diluted coffee. However, many coffee houses have perfected it; the result is a creamy, rich espresso-based coffee which you can gradually sip as you read your daily news.
Macchiato
Espresso that is “marked” with a dollop of steamed milk on top.
Latte macchiato
Steamed milk that is “marked” with a shot of espresso.
Corretto
Espresso that is “corrected” with grappa, cognac or sambuca.
Cappuccino scuro
Cappuccino prepared with less milk, thus its darker color. (Note: Scuro means darker).
Cappuccino chiaro
Cappuccino prepared with more milk, but less than a caffe latte, thus its lighter color. (Note: Chiaro means lighter).
