BUZZ

It's not just for the buzz.

Both alcohol and coffee give you excitement and energy. For Italians though, drinks are very similar to food. It's not really about the drink itself, but it's about who you share it with. Having a little chat with your favourite morning Barista or sharing a Prosecco with your loved one, drinks help making that moment special.

COFFEE

Caffè

Every Italian needs an Espresso in the morning. Either at home or outside, paired with a croissant sets your day. It needs to be short and strong, NO double and NO added water. To end your meal, you MUST have an Espresso which helps digest your pasta. Many love Cappuccino as well but just as breakfast, have it during a meal and you'll get kicked out of the country. Wherever you live, you need to have your favourite Barista, who knows your name and your preference. Many add sugar but you don't easily find latte art. We prefer simple and quick. Espresso is usually 1€ while Cappuccino is 1.30€.

WINE

Vino

White or red, sparkling or still, wine is the perfect pairing to your Italian food. White wine is great with pasta and fish, has to be served cold and in a taller glass. Red wine is delicious with meat, has to be served at room temperature, in a wider glass. To be a true Italian, you ALWAYS need have a bottle at home ready for your guests or for a special occasion. Wine is different in every region, so you should try to pair a regional dish with a wine made close-by. Prosecco is the Italian (BETTER) version of the French Champagne and it's perfect to start a meal or for any other made up excuse.

COCKTAILS

Cocktails

With friends or loved ones, Italian cocktails are great for your after dinner or Aperitivo (read more in "Lifestyle"). Worldwide famous, Spritz and Negroni are the most popular ones. Spritz is made with three parts of Prosecco, two parts of Aperol and one part of soda (or fizzy water), served with an orange slice. Negroni is made with one part of Gin, one part of Campari and one part of sweet red Vermouth, also served with an orange slice. Negroni "Sbagliato", a different but equally famous version, is made with Prosecco instead of Gin.

Drink

Learn how and what Italians drink.