How to order Coffee in Italy

Written by Katelyn Murhammer June 4, 2018

Since I’ve been in Italy, I have learned how helpful it is to know how to order coffee in Italian. I have had a lot of fun trying out different drinks at the cafè, but my favorite by far is a cappuccino! I have found that these phrases are the most useful when ordering coffee:

1. Greeting

As you walk into the “bar” (what Italians call a café), say either “buongiorno” (good morning or afternoon) or “buonasera” (good evening) to the waiter or barista.

2. Ordering your drink

They will say something along the lines of “Prego, desidera?” (how may I help you or what would you like?). You can respond by saying the name of the drink you would like, followed by “per favore” (please):

“Un cappuccino, per favore” (Cappuccino: a coffee with warm milk and foam on top)
“Un caffè, per favore” (Caffè: a shot of espresso)
“Un caffè americano, per favore” (Caffè americano: a cup of coffee)
“Un latte macchiato, per favore” (Latte macchiato: warm milk with a shot of coffee)
“Un caffè shakerato, per favore” (Caffè shakerato: an iced coffee)

Here are some other helpful phrases to know at the cafè:

“latte” (milk)
“caldo” (hot)
“freddo” (cold)
“con caffè doppio” (with double coffee)

3. Paying

When paying, you can ask the waiter or barista “quanto costa?” (how much does is cost?) or “quant’è?” (how much is it?). At many businesses, you won’t need to pay until after you are done drinking your coffee – not when you order it from the barista. Lastly, make sure you thank them! Say “grazie” (thank you) and “arrivederci” (hope to see you again).

I hope you will have the opportunity to try out these phrases while in Italy! You will be sure to get a delicious drink. Ciao!