Café Americano is a popular coffee drink made by diluting a shot of espresso with hot water, resulting in a milder flavor compared to a regular espresso.
This drink offers a balanced and smooth coffee experience, ideal for those who find espresso too strong but still want to enjoy the rich taste of coffee. It’s typically served in a larger cup, making it perfect for leisurely sipping.
To order it in Spain, you would say, “Me puede poner un café americano, por favor.”
Ingredients
1 Espresso Shot + 2 Fl. Oz. Hot Water
How to order a Café Americano in Spain?
"Me puede poner un café americano, por favor."
History and Origin
The cafe americano in Spain shares the same World War II origin story as its Italian counterpart. American soldiers in Europe wanted coffee that resembled the drip coffee they drank back home, so they diluted espresso with hot water. The drink eventually spread throughout European cafe culture. In Spain, the americano found a natural home alongside the country’s already diverse coffee menu. While the cafe solo remains the default choice for most Spaniards, the americano appeals to those who want a longer, milder coffee experience. It has become increasingly popular in Spanish cities, partly driven by the global influence of international coffee chains.
How It’s Made
A Spanish cafe americano starts with a shot of espresso pulled from the bar’s espresso machine, typically using a mezcla blend (a mix of natural and torrefacto-roasted beans). Hot water is added to the espresso to fill a larger cup, usually doubling or tripling the volume. The ratio depends on the bar, but most places aim for a drink that is smooth and easy to sip without being too watery. Some Spanish bars serve the hot water separately in a small pitcher so you can adjust the strength yourself. The result tastes different from American drip coffee – it retains the espresso’s body and aromatic oils that a paper filter would remove.
How to Order
In Spain, say: “Me puede poner un cafe americano, por favor” (meh PWEH-deh poh-NEHR oon kah-FEH ah-meh-ree-KAH-noh, por fah-VOR). You can also simply say “un americano.” Most baristas in Spanish cities will understand without any confusion. If you want it iced, ask for “un americano con hielo.” In smaller towns or very traditional bars, you might need to explain that you want an espresso with added hot water, as some older baristas may not be familiar with the term.
When and Where Locals Drink It
The cafe americano is not the most traditional Spanish coffee order, but it has a steady following. You will find it mostly in urban cafes, hotel restaurants, and international-style coffee shops. Spaniards who order it tend to do so in the morning when they want a longer coffee to enjoy with breakfast, or in the afternoon when they want something lighter than a cafe solo. It is also a popular choice among expats and tourists, and Spanish baristas in tourist areas are well accustomed to making it. Traditional bars in rural areas may be less familiar with the order.
Variations
The Spanish cafe americano can be customized in several ways. Ask for “doble” if you want two espresso shots for a stronger base. In summer, “americano con hielo” (with ice) is a refreshing option. Some people add a splash of milk, creating a sort of hybrid between an americano and a cafe con leche. You can also request it with decaf espresso (“americano descafeinado”) for a caffeine-free version. For a completely different take on diluted coffee, try ordering a cortado – it uses milk instead of water to soften the espresso.
Cafe Americano vs Cafe Solo
The cafe americano and cafe solo both start with the same espresso base, but the experience is quite different. A cafe solo is a pure, concentrated shot – bold, intense, and consumed in a few sips. The americano adds hot water to create a larger, milder drink meant for slower sipping. Caffeine content is similar since both use the same espresso shot. Most traditional Spaniards prefer the solo, while the americano appeals to those who enjoy a gentler, more prolonged coffee experience. When in doubt in Spain, start with a solo – it is the default and the most authentic local choice.
How to Make at Home
To make a Spanish-style cafe americano at home, pull a shot of espresso using an espresso machine or brew strong coffee with a moka pot. Heat water separately to about 80-85 degrees Celsius. Pour the espresso into a large cup and add hot water at a 1:2 or 1:3 ratio, depending on how strong you like it. For an authentic Spanish touch, use a mezcla or torrefacto blend from brands like Marcilla or La Estrella. Serve in a standard coffee mug. Sugar is optional but very common in Spain – add a packet or two if that is your preference. For an iced version, pour the espresso over a glass full of ice and top with cold water.
FAQ
Is a cafe americano popular in Spain?
It is growing in popularity, especially in cities and tourist areas. However, the cafe solo remains the most traditional and commonly ordered black coffee in Spain.
What is the difference between a Spanish and Italian americano?
The preparation is the same – espresso plus hot water. The main difference is the bean blend. Spanish bars often use torrefacto-roasted beans, giving the americano a slightly darker, more bitter character compared to the Italian version.
Can I get an iced americano in Spain?
Yes. Ask for “un americano con hielo.” The barista will typically serve the espresso in one glass and ice in another, so you can pour it over yourself.
