Love Coffee and Italy? Here’s What You Need to Know

Coffee and Italy go together like, well, coffee and cream, but not actually. In Italy, you see, the Italians take their coffee pretty seriously, and there are some rules that will result in daggers being thrown your way. From charitable coffee to standing up, here’s what you need to know.

The Waterways of Venice

If Venice is known for one thing, it’s the dazzling waterways that weave throughout the island. But if you can get past the pigeons and crowds of tourists, there are some supreme coffee spots tucked in between. For example, San Giorgio Cafè in Venice offers some of the best views of the popular tourist destination as you enjoy the finest coffee and Italian bistro classics. Or you could indulge in coffee history and take a trip to Caffé Florian, which dates back to 1720.

Paying for Others in Naples

Paying for other people’s coffee will see you in the poor house in the UK faster than you can say “decaf, soy, with a caramel shot”. However, not every country is as extortionate, and it is even socially acceptable to buy coffee for others in Italy. Starting in Naples, the tradition of “caffè sospeso” or “pending coffee” has become a major part of the culture. As a charitable act, you can pay for a second cup of coffee, and then someone who can’t afford it can ask for one later.

Coffee and Italy Go Together in Bars

Italy is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, with over 68 million visitors on average each year. One of the most cited reasons is the outstanding cuisine, with famous yet exquisite dishes like mushroom risotto. When you want to enjoy coffee in Italy, you do it at a bar, but not the way you might think. In Italy, a bar is anywhere that sells coffee and pastries, not necessarily alcohol. However, some Italian coffee bars are licensed to serve booze as well.

Don’t Sit Down!

There are some rules to drinking coffee in Italy, such as no cappuccino after 9 am. This will get you some dirt looks in Rome! However, one of the most impactful things to be aware of is that you will be charged more money for sitting down at a table in an Italian coffee bar. That’s why you often see crowds of people socialising at the bar while sipping a smooth roast. Known as “al banco”, you will get a fairer price if you stand at the bar to drink your coffee alone or with others.

Make Sure You Know Your Coffee

There are many types of coffee in most countries, and Italy is no different. Before embarking on a coffee tour, make sure you know your blends, because they take it pretty seriously. Unlike most countries, where people order what they feel like, there are coffee rules in Italy. For example, no Italian will ever drink a milky coffee after 11 am. Basically, you need to know un caffé (espresso shot), caffé Americano (watered down espresso and caffé latte (a milky coffee).

Summary

Venice is home to a coffee house dating back to 1720, cementing the idea that coffee and Italy have a solid relationship. Bars are also not the same in Italy as this means anywhere that sells coffee and not necessarily alcohol, and make sure you know the rules before ordering.

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Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.