Before arriving in Florence, our coffee routine was very simple. Occasionally, before classes at school, we would stop at either Starbucks or Dunkin’ Donuts to grab a sugary iced coffee to get us through the day.
Since being in Florence, we can’t imagine starting our mornings without coffee. Every morning we go to our favorite local cafes such as La Cité, Rivarno, and La Milkeria, and grab some type of hot drink, typically a cappuccino or hot latte. We take a few minutes to enjoy our drink and chat with either local Italians or our friends.
A difference in getting coffee back at home compared to Florence is that at home, we quickly go into a coffee shop, order our drink, grab it, and then leave. These coffees are typically large and filled with ice, sugar, and syrups. These drinks are meant to be taken on the go. While in Florence, sometimes ordering coffee is more about the experience and socialization. We have enjoyed going into a cafe and ordering our drinks while sitting at a table or around the counter. This allows us to be able to talk to one another while sipping on our cup of coffee. Some of our favorite memories and conversations in Florence have been these small moments chatting over a cup of coffee with new friends we have met while abroad!
We have found the Italian experience of ordering coffee to be much more relaxing, social, and enjoyable. Along with this, we have also learned that in Italy, there can be “rules” when it comes to ordering coffee. An example of this is that cappuccinos are supposed to only be ordered in the morning because Italians believe milk-based drinks are too heavy after meals.
We have also enjoyed getting a hot coffee in Florence every morning because it has been a great way for us to explore new places and areas, and try the drinks and foods the cafe has to offer. One of our favorite places to go is right next to school, Melaleuca. Their cinnamon buns with a cappuccino are our favorite combination and the perfect way to start the morning!
This might seem like a small change in our morning routines, but it is something we look forward to every day. Living in Florence has completely reshaped the way we think about coffee. What used to be an occasional sugar-filled iced drink has turned into a meaningful daily ritual centered around quality, culture, and experience. We hope to keep finding new cafes to try, meet new people, drink more coffee, and continue this back at home!
Instagram: Learning how to make coffee like a real Italian
Cooking TikTok: Cook a steak dinner with us abroad
Shopping TikTok: Come shop like a local with me in Florence
Written by: Brooke Hanley, Teri Koustas, Alex Walters, and Marie Van Scoy