12 – Italy: 5.9 kg per capita
A guide to the different drinks in Italy:
• Caffè: “Caffe” means “coffee” in Italian, but what you get isn’t filter coffee, but what we call espresso. You can say “espresso” instead of “caffe” if you want.
• Caffè Americano: If you’re looking for filter coffee, this is the closest you’ll get. It’s espresso with hot water added, and probably still a bit stronger than what you’re used to.
• Caffè macchiato: Meaning “stained” or “spotted” coffee, this is an espresso with a dash of hot, foamy milk on top. It’s delicious with a bit of sugar and a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
• Caffè con panna: Similar to the macchiato, but sweeter, this espresso is topped with sweet whipped cream.
• Caffè corretto: This “corrected” coffee is served with a drop of liquor, usually cognac, grappa or Sambuca, but feel free to add whatever you prefer.
• Caffè shakerato: Delicious in the sweltering summer months, a caffè shakerato is a fresh espresso mixed with sugar and ice, and shaken vigorously like a martini until it froths as it’s poured into a chilled glass. Some people add chocolate syrup, which makes it extra divine.
• Caffè latte: This is espresso with hot milk, just like a latte in South Africa. But careful to specify the “caffè” part, because “latte” just means “milk”. Many tourists order a “latte” and are shocked when they’re presented with a steaming mug of white milk, much to the confusion of everyone involved. Even ordered correctly though, the caffè latte is not a common drink in Italy, and you might not get what you expect.
• Cappuccino: Saving the best for last! Italy’s most famous coffee drink, the cappuccino is a warm, soothing, perfect ratio of espresso to whole milk, frothed to perfection. One sip and you’ll realize it’s completely different than whatever cappuccino you’re used to, and in a good way. But they come with a caveat—you cannot order them after noon, unless you want to risk being scorned. Italians have a weird thing about drinking cappuccinos only in the morning, and they’ll give you very funny looks if you do otherwise.
Come and join us for a chat or a quick cuppa or even a take-away or a full breakfast. You don't need to spend anything, but if you do, it will be for your own account.
Date: Friday, 28 February 2020
Time: From 06h45 to 07h30
Place: Brioche, 181 Main Rd, Walmer
We look forward to seeing you there!
For fun you can log in Italian.