3 Coffee Drinks You Must Have In Italy (That Starbucks Does Not Know About)

Cappuccino, Caffè latte, Caffè con Panna, Caffè Macchiato…these are just some of the most basic beverages Starbucks has on it’s menu. But what about the REAL Italian coffee drinks that are consumed throughout “bars” in Italy? Here we unveil 3 must-try local coffees you must try when in Italy. 

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When in Italy, many don’t know that there are more options than just your regular Espresso, Cappuccino, and Caffè Latte when in bars. And don’t try ordering beverages such as a Mocha, a Frappuccino or a Vanilla Latte because those are made up Starbucks beverages. They are not drinks Italians have created. We Italians do like to get very creative with our coffee drinks, but like to keep them local-kept secrets. So what coffees are you talking about Sveva?

Let’s begin by saying that the most common place to grab an espresso when in Italy is in a bar. It is not a literal bar, bar is the term us Italians use when we refer to a café. We all head to the bar in the morning for breakfast and grab a cappuccino and brioche or cornetto, which is a croissant. We all head to the bar after lunch to grab an espresso, and we all head to the bar to grab un caffè after work. We have a coffee drink to suit every mood, every taste bud, and every time of year. I’m talking about Caffè Ginseng, Marocchino and Shakerato.

1. Caffè Ginseng

This coffee is our Italians alternative to caffeine. Typically consumed more often in the winter, caffè ginseng is made of a special powder made from root of ginseng plants. You can order it in either a small espresso sized cup or big cappuccino cup for just 1,20 to 1,50 euro (that’s roughly $1.50). No studies have been done on the effects of ginseng, but we Italians believe it has a calming, relaxing YET reinvigorating effect that gives you energy without the damaging coffee kick. It’s also known to be really good for your blood circulation, stabilizes high blood pressure, and helps with digestion. This coffee drink tastes nothing like plants and it’s not as bitter as regular coffees. It’s actually sweet with a creamy taste to it. It almost tastes like your drinking flowers, if that’s even possible. The closest I think I’ve ever had to this in America is a Chai latte, let’s put it this way! This is my go-to in Italy when I need a quick pick me up and want to avoid consuming more caffeine.

2. Caffè Marocchino

If you’re looking for a substitute for your Mocha, say hello to your new best friend—Caffè Marocchino. It’s a small drink made of 3 simple ingredients: a shot of espresso, frothed milk and cocoa powder. The cocoa powder sits at the bottom of the beverage and when mixed with the espresso turns it into a delicious chocolatey shot of goodness. Fun fact, Marocchino literally translates to little Moroccan in Italian and it gets its origins from the color of Moroccan leather Italians use to make hats, marroncino. A perfect Caffè Marocchino needs to be identical to the color of the Moroccan leather. This beverage was actually created in my hometown region of Piemonte in Northern Italy. It’s an intense coffee flavor with a hint of creamy chocolate. What’s really important is the presentation of the Marocchino beverage. Unlike other drinks it will always be presented to you in a clear shot glass so you can see the 3 different layers of the beverage. When you get your beverage you need to mix it before drinking so don’t forget to do that! The Barista will not do it for you.

3. Caffè Shakerato

One of my favorite refreshing go-to summer beverages, aside from a shot of espresso with a scoop of vanilla ice cream in it, is the Caffè Shakerato, which literally translates to shaken coffee. The Barista literally makes an espresso and shakes it with some sugar and ice to sweeten the deal and serves it to you cold. To give this drink it’s fizzy top layer, liquid sugar is used. When the sugar reacts with the ice it creates a creamy, foamy later that floats at the top of the drink. Cold, refreshing and a bitter sweet (literally) change up from your every day espresso.

So there you have it. My top 3 must-try local espressos or coffee drinks in Italy that Starbucks does not know about yet. If you want a real Italian experience, hop into the nearest bar next to you in Italy and order one of these coffee drinks. The barista will give you a surprised look as you order your coffee like an Italian-pro.

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