What Is an Americano?
An Americano is a coffee drink made by diluting one or two shots of espresso with hot water.
The result is a longer, milder cup that retains the aroma and character of espresso while resembling the strength and volume of traditional drip coffee.
Typical preparation:
- 1 shot (or double shot) of espresso
- 120–240ml hot water (depending on preference)
Unlike drip coffee, which extracts flavour gradually through a filter, the coffee begins with a fully extracted espresso and is then diluted.
This distinction is important — it preserves espresso’s complexity while softening its intensity.
The Americano sits at the intersection of espresso culture and filter coffee tradition — and its story reflects that blend.
The WWII Origin Story
The most widely accepted origin of the Americano dates back to World War II, when American soldiers were stationed in Italy.
At the time, espresso was already deeply embedded in Italian coffee culture.
It was strong, concentrated, and consumed quickly at the bar.
But for many American servicemen, accustomed to larger, milder drip filter coffee back home, espresso was simply too intense.
So they improvised.
By adding hot water to espresso, they recreated something closer to the coffee they were familiar with. Italian baristas reportedly began referring to this diluted drink as:
“Caffè Americano” — American-style coffee.
While documentation from the period is limited, the timeline aligns well with the widespread adoption of espresso machines in Italy and the influx of American troops.
Whether born out of necessity or preference, the drink endured long after the war ended.
Alternative Theories
Although the wartime story dominates popular history, some coffee historians suggest diluted espresso may have existed before WWII.
Pre-War Adaptations
It’s possible that lighter versions of espresso were occasionally served to customers who preferred a milder cup.
However, it appears the term “Americano” became common only after American influence grew in post-war Europe.
Not to Be Confused with the Lungo
In Italy, there is also Caffè Lungo, meaning “long coffee.”
But this is not the same as an Americano.
- Lungo: More water is forced through the coffee grounds during extraction, resulting in a longer pull and often more bitterness.
- Americano: A normal espresso extraction is diluted after brewing.
The Americano maintains the intended espresso extraction profile, whereas the Lungo alters it.
Americano vs Lungo
Understanding this distinction is important for coffee enthusiasts.
Lungo Characteristics:
Longer extraction time
More dissolved compounds
Often more bitterness
Heavier, sometimes harsher finish
Americano Characteristics:
Standard espresso extraction
Diluted after brewing
Cleaner flavour
Smoother body
For those seeking balance and clarity rather than intensity, the Americano often proves the more refined option.
Americano vs Long Black
Another closely related drink is the Long Black, popular in Australia and New Zealand.
The key difference lies in preparation order.
Americano:
Pull espresso.
Add hot water.
Long Black:
Add hot water to the cup.
Pour espresso over the water.
Because the espresso sits on top, the Long Black typically preserves more crema and aroma.
The flavour difference is subtle but noticeable to trained palates.
The Americano, by contrast, tends to be slightly more integrated and mellow.
How It’s Made
A well-prepared Americano is simple but precise.
Step-by-Step:
- Pull a fresh shot (or double shot) of espresso.
- Heat water to just below boiling (around 90–96°C).
- Add hot water to the espresso, adjusting ratio to taste.
Common ratios range from 1:2 to 1:4 (espresso to water).
Stronger versions highlight acidity and origin notes, while more diluted versions resemble classic filter coffee.
Some baristas preheat the cup to preserve temperature stability — an often overlooked detail that enhances the drinking experience.
Flavour Profile
The flavour of an Americano depends largely on the beans used and roast level, but generally it offers:
- Balanced acidity
- Medium to light body
- Clean finish
- Reduced bitterness compared to espresso
- Preserved aromatics
With high-quality specialty beans, an Americano can showcase subtle origin characteristics — floral Ethiopian notes, chocolatey Brazilian undertones, or bright Central American citrus — in a more relaxed, sip-friendly format.
It allows nuance to unfold gradually rather than hitting the palate with espresso intensity.
Cultural Significance
The Americano represents more than just a drink — it symbolises the meeting of coffee cultures.
It bridges:
- Italian espresso tradition
- American filter coffee preference
- Modern global café culture
Interestingly, the Americano is not particularly common in traditional Italian cafés today.
Italians still overwhelmingly favour espresso, cappuccino, and macchiato.
However, as espresso spread globally — especially through American coffee chains and third-wave cafés — the Americano became a staple worldwide.
It offers familiarity without sacrificing quality.
Modern Variationsof The Americano
The Americano has evolved into several popular variations:
Iced Americano
Espresso poured over ice and topped with cold water. Crisp, refreshing, and increasingly popular in warmer climates.
Red Eye
Drip coffee with a shot of espresso added — designed for maximum caffeine impact.
White Americano
An Americano with a small amount of milk added for softness.
Each variation builds on the original concept: espresso extended into a longer drink.
Final Thoughts
The Americano may have begun as a wartime adaptation, but it has become a global mainstay. It respects the structure of espresso while embracing the comfort of a longer cup.
For some, it is a gentle introduction to espresso.
For others, it is a refined way to enjoy complex beans without overwhelming intensity.
Simple in construction yet rich in history, the Americano stands as a reminder that coffee culture has always evolved through exchange, adaptation, and personal taste.
