“Caffè!” Italians love coffee! This beverage is probably one of the strongest elements of our culture. Every house has a coffee machine and usually more than one! While a little 2-cups maybe be enough for daily routine, some family have larger heavy-duty coffee machines! (8 or 12 cups). I’m talking about small espresso cups, like the one in the picture (not mugs)!
Espresso coffee cup made in italy
Even thought we have that kind of caffeine-dealing arsenal, there are also LOTS of public shops that sell coffee. They are also called “caff訔 or “bar”. Some of those have been opened during the 18th century, when they were a place where nobles and artist could interact and exchange informations…and gossips. This kind of service survived two centuries of evolution: Cafes are still place where people drink coffee, have breakfast and they still talk about sport/politics/other people.
This kind of enviroment inspired the creators of the Starbucks company, so they re-engineered the italian coffee culture in order to fit the american taste… which is good! I love the frappuccino!
But even though some of the popular drinks created by starbucks have italian names… they don’t have italian counterparts! You risk some confusion, trying to order them in italy! Let me shed some light! Are you ready to be confused?
Caffè Misto/ Cafè au lait
It’s a blend of coffee and milk. (50/50). Usually without foam, in italy is called “caffelatte” and it’s usually made at home.
Caffè latte
Espresso with steamed milk. The closest counterpart in italy is “cappuccino“. Usually is served in a larger cup. Some places add some cocoa powder over the foam.
Caffè Americano
The direct translation would be “american coffee” and it’s essentially espresso diluted with water. The closest conterpart in italy is called “caffè¨ lungo” (long coffee¨) becase it’s added with water. Do not expect your usual giant cup of joe, because you are getting at maximum, an espresso cup with additional water. Italians like the strong taste of coffee and diluting it is considered sort of childish 
(i think i’ve started drinking some long coffee when i was around 8 years old)
Caffè Mocha
Chocolate Syrup along with espresso ? No way! The closest equivalent in north-west of Italy is called “Bicerin di Cavour“, a mix made with coffee, cream and hot chocolate. You’re going to get perplexed stares everywhere else!
Caramel Macchiato (everything Macchiato)
“Macchiato” means like “spotted” in italian language. And it’s just that: a spot of hot milk over a cup of espresso.
Everything “Latte”
Latte in italy is milk and only milk! If you order a “latte” in italy, you’ll get a glass of milk, usually hot. Which is good if you have stomacache, but it’s otherwise inappropriate if you need a jolt of energy
Frappuccino
There’s no frappuccino equivalent in italy. Sadly. Almost all the bars could make you a coffee based smoothie, with ice cream, if you want, but it’s not the same thing ! (unfortunately)
Don’t worry there’s hope: Espresso and espresso macchiato!
There we are! No problems with these two! But while I know that starbucks hold a double/triple/quadruple espresso option, in italy it’s regarded as weird. Some places could do a double espresso, but almost no place wil do a triple of quadruple espresso (unless you ask for it specifically). And beside that, so much caffeine will crack your head open
Confused ?
I bet you are! Don’t worry, the coffee is a work of art in Italy. If you think you can’t stand our espresso, go for cappuccino, they are usually delicious and they aren’t strong as normal espresso. And if you drink coffee for breakfast, don’t forget to try some sweet pastries! You won’t regret it!
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