What is an Americano?

An Americano is espresso diluted with hot water. Simple as that. It bridges the gap between a strong shot and a longer black coffee, offering a fuller, milder experience without losing the espresso’s character.

An Americano is often served with a small glass of water on the side, especially in European cafés. It’s there to cleanse your palate before or after the coffee, not to be poured into it (though plenty of people make that mistake).

A Bit of History

This drink likely originated during World War II, when American soldiers in Italy found espresso too intense and began adding hot water to mimic the drip coffee back home. The Italian term caffè americano literally means “American coffee,” likely coined in jest but embraced worldwide.

How to Make an Americano

Start with a single or double shot of espresso, then add hot water (90–100 °C) until it reaches the strength you like.

• Typical ratio: 1 part espresso : 2 parts hot water (≈ 45ml espresso + 90ml water).

• Some prefer a 1:3 or 1:4 ratio—lighter, longer, but still with espresso flavour.

• For the most crema, either pour the shot over water (like a long black) or add hot water after the shot, both work, so go with your vibe.

Serve in a 150–240ml cup and don’t stir it, this lets the crema shine before it settles.

Ordering Tips

Get an Americano that actually tastes like coffee, not hot water:

• Ask for a small size, a 150ml cup keeps it strong without watering it down.

• Double-check the ratio. Ask for a stronger one if the place pours it like a massive long black.

• Like iced coffee? Try an Iced Americano, same drink, but chilled and smooth.

Plain English

An Americano is espresso grown up. Not a quick explosive shot, and not fussy like a latte. Just a longer, smoother hit that still tastes like real coffee.