What are some variations of Americano coffee?
The main variations are the long black (espresso poured over hot water, which keeps more crema), the iced Americano, a stronger or milder ratio, a Red Eye (drip coffee plus espresso, not a true Americano) and flavored versions with syrup or milk. A lungo is a related but different drink.
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In this article
What are the main types of Americano?
A classic Americano is espresso with hot water added, roughly double the espresso volume or more. These variations change the order, temperature or ratio.
| Drink | How it differs |
|---|---|
| Americano | Water added to espresso |
| Long black | Reverse order: double espresso over about 4 oz hot water, keeping more crema |
| Iced Americano | Espresso with cold water and ice |
| Red Eye | Drip coffee with a shot of espresso (no water) |
| Lungo | Espresso pulled long, around 3 to 6 oz, not diluted afterward |
Long black vs Americano
The difference is the order. In a long black the espresso goes on top of the water, which preserves the crema and gives a different taste. Names are used loosely in some cafes, so ask if you care.
Iced Americano
Pour the shots over cold water and ice. Many people use a stronger ratio because melting ice dilutes the drink.
Red Eye
Made with brewed drip coffee and a shot of espresso, so it usually has more caffeine than the same cup of drip coffee. It is not a true Americano, since no water is added.
Lungo vs Americano
A lungo uses more water through the coffee during extraction, while an Americano adds water afterward. A lungo is said to taste more bitter, since the longer pull extracts more bitter compounds.
Flavored versions
- Vanilla, caramel or hazelnut syrup, a pump or two.
- A splash of milk, oat milk or cream.
- Cinnamon or cocoa dusted on top.
Cafe menu names such as Caramel Americano or Dirty Americano are house recipes, so they differ between shops. Ask what is in them.
How to choose
Want crema and a punchy cup: long black. Want a long cold drink: iced. Want more caffeine: Red Eye or an extra shot.
People also ask
What is the difference between an Americano and a long black?
An Americano adds water to espresso; a long black pours espresso over water, keeping more crema.
Is a Red Eye an Americano?
No. It is drip coffee with espresso and contains no added hot water.
Is a lungo the same as an Americano?
No. A lungo is a longer espresso extraction, while an Americano is espresso diluted afterward.
Sources
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