Neapolitan coffee traditions

“One coffee please! ” – is the usual request to order the cup of coffee.

“Which one would you like to drink? ” – is the typical waiter’s answer almost in every country. But not in Italy, especially not in Naples!

In this city you should be more precise with your orders. Otherwise, one minute after “Un caffè, per favore” (One coffee, please) you will see the tiny cup near you with just few drops of coffee inside. But how strong are these drops!

The fact is that in Italy espresso is a synonym and the second name of coffee, that’s why only in some touristic places the waiters will specify which type of this drink you would like to taste. So, here is a useful answer for latte and cappuccino lovers: it’s important to say precisely the name of the coffee you want to order to avoid any confusion. Be ready that cappuccino will be stronger than one you used to drink in your country.

Espresso ceremony is an old Italian tradition. Every self-respecting habitant of Naples drinks at least 3-4 cups of espresso per day, doesn’t matter where: at home, in the bar or at the working place. And every second person follows a morning ritual:

1. Croissant (standard and complete enough breakfast for Neapolitans);
2. The cup of espresso;
3. Cigarette in the fresh air (not the best example to follow).

One of the most difficult things for the foreigners living in Naples is to get used to such traditions. Many tourists seek frantically for Starbucks, but in Naples you won’t find it.

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