Coffee Scene in Italy
The coffee scene in Italy is very different than in America. Going out with friends for coffee in the states would last at least an hour or more as we would sit and talk at a table. This can happen too in Italy, but sitting at a table will often cost 2-3 times more than standing at a bar! This is because you will pay for table service in Italy, so you don’t have to retrieve your own coffee.
Most Italians tend to consume their coffee within 2 minutes while standing. It is a quick pick me up and not a lingering social event.
For example, many years ago when I first started traveling to Italy, I had my first true experience of the coffee scene in Italy. I had been on a long road trip with some friends when we decided to stop for coffee. We all approached the bar and ordered our coffee. Everyone, except me, downed their shot of espresso and immediately left the counter to return to the car. I was left standing there alone sipping on my espresso looking around wondering what just happened. No one intended to be rude by leaving me alone, it was just time to move on and that is the norm here.
The portion size of coffee is also much smaller in Italy than in America. It is very easy to finish coffee in 1 or 2 sips, especially with an espresso. Don’t expect a free refill as in the states, you must pay for a second cup.
If you are looking to experience the true coffee scene in Italy, here is the procedure for ordering coffee as the locals do….
Most bars in Italy require you to pay for your order prior to receiving it. Usually you will see 2 lines; one in front of the cassa or cash register and the other where you pick up your order at the bar. If you are unsure of the procedure, take a step back and observe the others so you don’t waste time standing on the wrong line.
photo credit: Giuseppe Moscato https://flic.kr/p/7mBRjc
After you pay for your order at the cassa, you will be given a receipt. Don’t throw away the receipt as you will need to give it to the barista when you place your order for the second time.
SEE A BUSY BAR IN FLORENCE HERE
As you will see from the below video, sometimes the line in front of the bar is chaotic and more like a gathering of people. It is actually similar to ordering cocktails at a night club or bar in the states. If you can master that crowd, you will surely be able to manage the crowd at a bar in Italy.
There are a plethora of bars in all major cities in Italy. If you are looking to have a quick coffee without a large crowd, stay away from train stations and major tourist sites. If you take a walk down a side street near a popular tourist attraction, you will surely find a less crowded bar where you don’t have to fight for a place at the counter.
