I am very fortunate to live and work in Italy, where life moves at its own pace and rules sometimes seem more like friendly suggestions. When it comes to coffee, food and digestion, though, there are rules that Italians do not break. Here’s what I’ve learned about the highly regulated coffee customs in Italy, as explained with unregulated warmth and understanding by my Italian friends trying to help this American living in Italy.
“PRENDIAMO UN CAFFÈ,” or “let’s grab a coffee,” is a welcomed phrase used throughout the day in Italy. Stepping out for a cup of coffee with a friend is a great way to break up the day. Generally, a caffé refers to an espresso. Ordering a caffé normale will get you a nice gulp of super strong coffee, served at just the right temperature to drink immediately. If you are asked to go for coffee in the morning, feel free to order a nice creamy cappuccino, which is an espresso with steamed milk foam. For an afternoon pick-me-up, you might order a caffé macchiato, a shot of espresso with just a dash of frothy milk or, if you need something just a little stronger, have a caffé corretto, a “corrected coffee.” This classically Italian beverage is espresso with a few splashes of alcohol, usually grappa or Sambuca.
But wait! There are a few things you should know about the coffee culture here in Italy before you order. Never have cappuccino with or after a meal, and if it is after 11 AM, forget that cappuccino entirely! Having this milky drink late in the day or with food is a social faux pas. However, it is okay to have a caffé normale, caffé macchiato or a caffé 
corretto in the afternoon or after a meal (though it’s frowned upon to have a caffé corretto too early in the morning). Still, while a caffé macchiato is an acceptable post-meal beverage, let’s just say sometimes I get the “look” for ordering the slightly milkier coffee. But honestly, sometimes a caffé normale is too strong for me and I just need that splash of milk!
Why is this important to know, you ask? Well, as the saying goes, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do!” Not only that, but I find this coffee knowledge to give vital insight into many aspects of Italian culture. For example, digestion is always in the back of everyone’s mind. It’s no surprise, then, that Italians are masters at knowing what foods go with what, when to eat each course, and how to mix and match prepared food for optimum digestion. That’s why you never have cappuccino with a meal – a milky drink in the afternoon is bad for your digestion! If you’re overwhelmed by the coffee rules, though, you can adhere to every Italian’s go-to order. It’s always safe to order a caffé normale, be it morning, noon, or night. If you’re in the mood to change it up, a caffé macchiato or a caffé corretto is a safe bet.
When it comes to coffee and food, Italians vehemently adhere to their gastronomical rules. On the other hand, I’ve found that there are no rules to the limit Italians will extend themselves for friends and family. I have had countless experiences with my Italian friends helping me, coaching me, and teaching me how to do things the Italian way. Even when I break the rules (which I’ll admit is sometimes on purpose), they show bottomless understanding and compassion. It is so interesting to me that my friends refuse milk in their coffee in the afternoon but will run to my side in my time of need.
As one of my Italian friends told me, “After all, Susie, it is all about digestion.” It’s true, and not only when it comes to food and coffee. I’m still digesting the idea that I am so very lucky to call this country my home and to be surrounded by amazing Italian friends that are teaching me the rules!
