The Italians and Their Rules to Coffee Consumption…

Ah, Italians and their espresso…

The Italian coffee culture is rich with unwritten rules (but expected to be followed) and traditions, often followed with great pride! While Italians are famously seen as relaxed in many areas of life, coffee etiquette might not be one of those areas as it is taken quite seriously.

Here’s the lowdown on how to “properly” enjoy your espresso-based drinks in Italy and when it’s considered “appropriate” to have each one (Soooo many rules!)

Espresso (Caffè)

  • Rule: You can have espresso any time of day. It’s the most versatile and common drink.

  • Morning, afternoon, or evening: Espresso is often enjoyed after meals or as a pick-me-up during the day. Italians may have several espresso shots daily!

  • Cultural Note: Espresso is just called “caffè” in Italy. Asking for a “caffè” at a bar will get you an espresso.

Ristretto

  • Rule: Like espresso, ristretto can be enjoyed at any time.

  • Cultural Note: Ristretto is a preference for those who like a shorter, more intense shot. No strict rules here!

Lungo

  • Rule: Like espresso, it's acceptable any time of day, though it’s not as common in Italy.

  • Cultural Note: It’s a good option for those who prefer a longer coffee but without switching to an Americano.

Cappuccino

  • Rule: Only consumed in the morning, and usually before 11:00 AM.

  • Why: Italians believe milk-heavy drinks after meals or later in the day can upset digestion. It’s rare to see Italians ordering cappuccinos after lunch and never after a meal for this reason.

  • Cultural Note: Ordering a cappuccino after a meal can instantly mark you as a tourist.

Caffè Latte (or Latte Macchiato)

  • Rule: Also a morning-only drink, typically enjoyed with breakfast.

  • Why: Same rule as Cappuccino!

  • Cultural Note: In Italy, asking for a "latte" will just get you a glass of milk! To get what we call a latte in the U.S., you’d need to order a "caffè latte" or "latte macchiato."

Macchiato (Traditional)

  • Rule: Can be enjoyed throughout the day. Since it’s just a small amount of milk “marking” the espresso, it doesn’t violate the “no milk after breakfast” rule.

  • Cultural Note: It’s often chosen by those who want a hint of milk without diluting the espresso experience.

Americano

  • Rule: It’s more of a tourist drink in Italy, but Italians may have it in the afternoon if they want something lighter.

  • Cultural Note: Italians rarely dilute their espresso with hot water, so ordering an Americano could mark you as a foreigner.

Cortado

  • Rule: Like macchiato, cortado is acceptable any time of day, but it’s not as common in Italy.

  • Cultural Note: If you want something similar, you’re better off asking for a caffè macchiato.

Mocha (Caffè Mocha)

  • Rule: Mocha isn’t traditionally Italian, so there are no hard-and-fast rules. However, Italians might consider it more of a breakfast drink or dessert-like treat.

Affogato

  • Rule: Enjoyed as a dessert or afternoon treat, typically after lunch or dinner.

  • Cultural Note: Since it involves gelato, it’s considered more of a dessert than a coffee drink.

Espresso con Panna

  • Rule: Can be consumed any time of day but may be viewed as a bit indulgent, so it’s less common in daily life.

  • Cultural Note: It’s often seen as a special treat rather than an everyday choice.

Other General Rules:

  • No Coffee to Go: Italians drink their espresso at the bar (standing up) or at a small table. The idea of “coffee on the go” is seen as strange.

  • No Flavored Syrups or Whipped Cream: Italians value the purity of their coffee. Adding syrups, pumpkin spice, or excessive toppings is a tourist thing.

  • No Espresso at Breakfast: Italians typically start their day with a cappuccino or caffè latte and a pastry. Espresso usually follows meals or is enjoyed mid-morning/afternoon.

The Social Aspect of Coffee in Italy:

  • Coffee is a ritual and social activity. Italians often stop by the bar for a quick espresso and chat with the barista or friends. It’s a moment of connection and relaxation, not just about the caffeine.

The quick and dirty – here is a quick summary of how the Italians see the world of coffee… 

  • Espresso, ristretto, lungo, macchiato: Any time of day.

  • Cappuccino, caffè latte, latte macchiato: Morning only, before 11:00 AM.

  • Americano: Afternoon or morning, but it’s not as common in Italy.

  • Affogato: After meals or as an afternoon dessert treat.

  • Espresso con panna or mocha: More of a special treat, with no strict rules.

Bottom line, here at the Commercial Drive Coffee Company, as we are 100% Canadian Owned and Operated – I would say that you do what you want, when you want to do it; but I am only saying that here… If you are going overseas to Italy, or to a truly favourite Italian restaurant in maybe East Vancouver’s Little Italy, then at least knowing and appreciating the rules as it might just make life easier 😊

At CDCC, we really do enjoy our coffees throughout the day and hope you will too. Thanks for the support!

We are 100% Canadian Owned and Operated. We Roast and Package our Coffees in BC!

Kenny Vannucci