Why (Italian) espresso is better than regular coffee

Italian espresso is often considered the gold standard of coffee, and there are several reasons why it is considered better than regular coffee. This dark and flavourful sip of a hot beverage is sought after by many. There are competitions and tutorials, all with the sole focus on creating the best (Italian) Espresso. Have you wondered, why some are so focussed on creating the best Espresso? Find here some of the explanations why Italian espresso is unquestionably better than regular coffee.

5 reasons why espresso is better than ‘regular’ coffee

Intensity
Espresso is a concentrated shot of coffee brewed under high pressure, resulting in a strong and intense flavour. Regular coffee, on the other hand, is brewed with hot water and is generally less concentrated, resulting in a milder taste.

Crema
A hallmark of Italian espresso is the creamy layer that forms on the coffee, called crema. This layer is a sign of a well-brewed espresso and gives the coffee a soft, velvety texture.

Fresh
Espresso is brewed on demand, which means it is always fresh and full of flavour. Regular coffee, on the other hand, can sit in the pot for hours, which can cause it to become stale and lose its aroma.

Versatility
Espresso can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for a variety of coffee drinks such as cappuccino and latte. Regular coffee, on the other hand, is usually drunk alone and is less versatile.

Tradition
Italy has a rich tradition in coffee culture, and Italian espresso is often considered the pinnacle of this tradition. The attention to detail and quality with which a good espresso is prepared is an expression of this cultural heritage and just another reason why espresso is better.

Convinced by Italian espresso?

Italian espresso is considered superior to regular coffee because of its intensity, crema, freshness, versatility and cultural significance. If you are a coffee lover, you should certainly try a freshly brewed Italian espresso. In Italy, drunk at the bar, usually costs between €0.80 to roughly €1.50. Depending on the location of the bar, in big cities and near popular sights, prices are naturally higher.
The prices are also higher if you drink it sitting down, standing up at the bar it is usually cheaper.

You might also be interested in a full List of Italian Coffee Specialities (highly recommended) or Until what hour is it okay to order Cappuccino in Italy?