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