For coffee lovers who appreciate bold flavors with a smooth finish, the Americano is a drink worth savoring. But what is an Americano, and why has it become a favorite in both cafés and kitchens around the world? This deceptively simple coffee has a rich history, a distinctive profile, and a surprisingly global appeal.

Let’s take a deep dive into the Americano—its origins, preparation, and the subtle beauty behind its bold brew.

What Is an Americano?

An Americano, or Caffè Americano, is a coffee drink made by diluting one or two shots of espresso with hot water. The result is a smoother, less intense version of straight espresso, yet stronger and richer than traditional drip coffee. The name reflects its origins during World War II, when American soldiers in Italy added water to strong European espresso to better resemble the brewed coffee they were used to back home.

The standard ratio is 1 part espresso to 2 parts water, but it can be customized depending on personal preference.

The Origins: A Transatlantic Coffee Tale

According to coffee lore, American GIs stationed in Italy during WWII found the local espresso too strong. To adapt, they diluted it with hot water. Thus, the Americano was born—blending European espresso culture with American brewing sensibilities.

While the drink has Italian roots, the Americano has become a global staple.

How to Make an Americano

Making an Americano is simple, yet the order and method matter:

1. Brew 1–2 shots of espresso using your preferred method (espresso machine, AeroPress, or capsule machine).

2. Add hot water (usually about 6 ounces) to dilute the espresso.

3. Serve in a 6–8 oz cup.

Pro Tip:

Pour the water over the espresso (known as a “long black”) if you want to preserve more crema—the golden, aromatic foam layer atop your espresso.

Want to try making your own? Check out our Espresso Plus and Breville’s espresso guide for brewing tips.

Americano vs. Other Coffee Drinks

The Americano stands out for offering a bolder flavor than drip coffee while retaining the body and character of espresso, without the intensity.

Why Choose an Americano?

1. Customizable Strength

Easily adjust the water-to-espresso ratio to match your taste preferences.

2. Low-Calorie Option

With no added milk or sugar (unless you choose to add them), an Americano is a low-calorie, high-flavor coffee choice.

3. Ideal for Sipping

Its mellowed intensity makes it perfect for slow sipping and savoring, especially as a mid-morning or afternoon pick-me-up.

Final Sip: The Beauty of Simplicity

Now that you know what is an Americano, it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular drink. Elegant in its simplicity, bold in flavor, and endlessly versatile, the Americano is a perfect introduction to espresso-based drinks—and a staple for those who love the deep, rich taste of coffee without the frills.

Next time you order or brew coffee, try an Americano. It's more than just hot water and espresso—it's a sip of history, culture, and flavor that transcends continents.