Coffee 101 · 3 min read
What Is an Americano?
An Americano is espresso and hot water, and it's the easiest way to get a full cup of coffee that still tastes like espresso rather than drip.
Espresso, lengthened with water
You pull one or two shots of espresso and add hot water to fill the cup. The result is about the size of a drip coffee but keeps the deeper, rounder flavor of espresso and a touch of crema on top.
Why it tastes different from drip
Drip and espresso extract flavor differently, so even diluted, an Americano carries the heavier body and lower acidity of espresso. Many people who find drip too sharp prefer an Americano for exactly that reason.
Hot or iced
Iced, it's espresso poured over ice and cold water, which makes it crisp and refreshing in Valley heat. Hot, it's a clean, no-frills cup. Either way, add a splash of milk if you like it softer.
Come try one in person, we're on Main Street in downtown McAllen, Mon–Sat 10a–6p.