Can I have a glass of water?
bic-CHIE-re — three syllables, 'cchi' is a hard 'k' sound. Stress on second syllable.
Before or alongside your espresso. A glass of water is traditionally offered free with every espresso at quality Italian bars.
'Bicchiere' (glass) + 'd'acqua' (of water — 'di + acqua' contracted) = 'a glass of water'. In traditional Italian bars, this is offered automatically with espresso. If it is not offered, it is perfectly normal to ask.
Può portarmi anche l'acqua?
Can you also bring me the water?
Gentle reminder if water was not offered with the coffee
Acqua frizzante, per favore.
Sparkling water, please.
Specify sparkling if you prefer it — not the standard default
Un bicchierino d'acqua.
A small glass of water.
'Bicchierino' is the diminutive — describes the small glass traditionally served with espresso
The tradition of serving water with espresso dates back to the Viennese coffee house influence and reflects the Italian philosophy of coffee as a sensory experience. The water cleanses the palate so you can fully appreciate the flavour of the espresso.