Sipping Slowly
in Florence
Living in Florence for the summer has introduced us to many elements of Italian culture. One of our favorite experiences has been exploring the Italian coffee tradition. Before we arrived in Italy, coffee was just a routine part of our days. In the United States, grabbing a cup of coffee from Starbucks was just a stop on the way to class.
However, since being in Italy, it is an aspect of culture that is much more than something to help you power through your day.
The Italian Coffee Experience
CAPPUCCINO AND CROISSANT FOR BREAKFAST
Italians drink coffee very diferently than Americans do. Americans might get a large, iced coffee with pumps of sugar and cold foam, while Italians likely get a simple cup of espresso. Espresso in Italy is served at a coffee bar in a few sips.
At first, when we encountered the Italian coffee experience, we were surprised by the size and way in which people drink their coffee. We quickly came to the realization that the Italian coffee experience is centered around the quality of espresso, as opposed to quantity.
Coffee Customs & Traditions
SOME OF THE PASTRIES AT A LOCAL BAKERY
An additional aspect of the Italian co.ee experience that shocked us is the timing of co.ee drinks. In Italy, when people drink cappuccinos, they consume it in the morning with a pastry. In the United States, one might order a cappuccino as late as 4 p.m.
Having a cappuccino in the afternoon or after dinner points out who is a tourist from the United States.
This seemed like an unusual custom at first, but we quickly learned that this is a coffee tradition that makes the Italian coffee experience unique.
Café Atmosphere & Community
ESPRESSO OVERLOOKING THE STREET OUTSIDE
Our favorite part of the coffee culture in Florence is the atmospheres of the cafes. Many cafes here in Florence encourage people to gather and spend time with friends or enjoy a nice break during your busy day.
Specifcally at Shake Café, they have a “no laptop” policy. This is very outlandish for Americans because the culture of coffee shops encourages you to sit down for hours with your laptops and get work done. The coffee experience in Florence is a more social and community-oriented activity of your day.
Coffee as a Way to Experience Italian Culture
CAPPUCCINO AT ONE OF THE CAFES WE VISITED
As a study abroad student in Florence, we have tried to visit as many local cafes as possible. This has been a great way to soak up the Italian culture. We have even used ordering at a café to practice saying simple Italian words such as “cappuccino” or “café latte” and drinking espresso at the counter.
Engrossing ourselves in the daily routine of an Italian has been a memorable experience.
In Conclusion
Overall, trying different coffees at cafes has become one of the highlights of our abroad experience thus far, not only a source of caffeine. It reflects Italian traditions and connection to friends and family. As we continue our journey abroad, we will cherish our small memorable experiences at local cafes.
Written By:
Mallory Como https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallory-como-a3bba7377/
Emily Harmon https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-harmon-a2742036a/
Camila Sanchez https://www.linkedin.com/in/camila-sanchez-642047311/