Coffee Etiquette, Italian Style, from Carluccio's in Alexandria

August is National Coffee Month and in that spirit, we’re offering these coffee drinking tips, Italian style, courtesy of Carluccio’s in Alexandria:

Italian Coffee Etiquette Tips

· When referring to coffee in Italy, you are referring to espresso. Coffee = espresso.

· Italians love their coffee! When you visit Italy, you will often hear Italians say “PRENDIAMO UN CAFFÉ?” which means: Fancy a coffee?

· Cappuccino is to be enjoyed only in the morning, never after a meal and never after 12 noon.

· Lunch and dinner are to be followed by espressos but Italians just say “Un caffé.”

· One can order un caffé doppio (a double espresso), but be aware that this is not an Italian habit. Italians do drink a lot of coffee, but they do so in small, steady doses.

· A “caffé correcto” (literally a ‘corrected espresso with a splash of grappa or Sambuca added’) can also be ordered after dinner.

· Italians do not have flavored coffee so you won’t find a caramel or vanilla coffee.

· Coffee in Italy is always served ”warm” as opposed to ”hot’”– to be enjoyed immediately most likely standing at the bar.

Carluccio’s is located at 100 King St. in Old Town Alexandria. Check out the dessert and coffee menu here.

PHOTO: Carluccio’s coffee photo courtesy of Carluccio’s

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