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PhrasesOrdering CoffeeUn caffè lungo, per favore.
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Un caffè lungo, per favore.

A long espresso, please.

Pronunciation

LUN-go — two syllables, the 'g' is hard. Stress on the first syllable.

When to use it

When you want a larger quantity of espresso with less intensity than a ristretto.

What it means

'Lungo' means 'long' — the machine pulls more water through the same amount of coffee grounds, producing a larger, slightly weaker espresso. It is still served in an espresso cup, not a large mug. It is not the same as an Americano.

Variations

Un caffè americano.

An Americano.

Espresso diluted with hot water in a large cup — popular with Northern European and American visitors

Un caffè doppio.

A double espresso.

'Doppio' = double shot — two espresso pods in one cup

Un caffè corto.

A short espresso.

'Corto' = short — less water, more intense, similar to 'ristretto'

Mini Dialogue

— Un caffè lungo, per favore — il ristretto mi sveglia troppo. — Ha ragione! Ecco il suo lungo. Vuole anche un bicchiere d'acqua? — Sì, grazie. — Prego, buona giornata!

— A long espresso, please — the ristretto wakes me up too much. — You are right! Here is your lungo. Would you also like a glass of water? — Yes, please. — You're welcome, have a good day!

Cultural Note

A glass of water ('un bicchiere d'acqua') is traditionally served alongside espresso at Italian bars at no extra charge. It is meant to cleanse the palate before drinking the coffee. Always accept it — it is a mark of a quality bar.