If you’ve ever stepped into a specialty coffee shop, you’ve probably encountered both Americano and Long Black on the menu. But did you know the difference between Americano and Long Black?
At first glance, long black coffee vs Americano or long black vs Americano, whichever you prefer to call it, might seem like the same drink—after all, both are espresso-based, are served black without milk, and have that robust coffee flavor we love.
But here’s the thing: these two drinks are actually quite different, and understanding the distinction can help you order exactly what you’re craving. So, what is the real difference between Americano and Long black?
The Short Answer
The difference between Americano and Long Black is the drinks’ preparation order. For Americano, it’s hot water over espresso, while Long Black is espresso over hot water. This seemingly small difference creates distinct flavor profiles and visual presentations.
What is an Americano?
The Americano has an interesting history—legend has it that American soldiers stationed in Italy during World War II found traditional espresso too strong for their taste.
To make it more palatable, they diluted it with hot water, creating what we now know as the Americano. Funny! Isn’t it? 🤣
How to Make an Americano
- Pull two shots of espresso and pour them into the coffee cup, as shown in the picture above.
- Top up the coffee cup that already has two shots of espresso with hot water.
- Serve immediately
The result is a smooth, well-diluted coffee that’s less intense than straight espresso but stronger than drip coffee.
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What is a Long Black?
Long Black is predominantly an Australian and New Zealand creation, and it’s the preferred espresso drink in these regions. If you’re visiting a café down under, this is what the locals are ordering.
How to Make the Far Easterners’ Long Black
- Pour hot water (about 2/3 cup or 4-6 ounces) into the cup first
- Extract a double shot of espresso over the hot water
- Serve immediately
By pouring the espresso on top, the crema—that beautiful golden foam layer that sits on top of a well-pulled espresso—is preserved. This gives the Long Black a richer appearance and a more robust flavor profile.
Long Black vs Americano: At-a-Glance Comparison
| Feature | Long Black | Americano |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation Order | Hot water is added first, followed by espresso poured over it. | Espresso is brewed first, and hot water is added afterward. |
| Crema | The crema remains intact, forming a rich layer on top. | The crema is usually reduced or dispersed during preparation. |
| Flavor Profile | Strong, aromatic, and more layered in taste. | Smoother, lighter, and more diluted in flavor. |
| Typical Serving Size | Generally smaller, around 150–180 ml. | Typically larger, about 250–300 ml. |
| Ideal For | Those who appreciate a robust espresso taste and preserved crema. | Drinkers who enjoy a milder, larger cup of black coffee. |
In summary:
A Long Black suits coffee lovers who want a bold, aromatic espresso character with a noticeable crema layer. An Americano, on the other hand, is better for those who prefer a smoother, less intense, and more generously sized black coffee.
Now let’s look at the key differences one by one.
1. Crema Preservation
The most noticeable visual difference is the crema. When you pour water over espresso (Americano), you break up and dilute the crema.
When you pour espresso over water (Long Black), the crema floats on top, creating that signature golden layer that espresso lovers cherish.
2. Flavor Profile
Though both drinks use the same basic ingredients, the flavor differs:
- Americano: Tends to be smoother and mellower. The dilution method creates a more uniform taste throughout.
- Long Black: Has a more intense, layered flavor. The preserved crema delivers a richer initial taste, with the full-bodied espresso flavor following through.
3. Temperature
Long Blacks are often slightly hotter because the espresso is added to already-hot water, whereas Americanos may cool down slightly as water is added to the espresso.
4. Cultural Origins
- Americano: Born in Italy, popularized by American soldiers, now a staple in coffee shops worldwide
- Long Black: An Australian/New Zealand specialty, reflecting those regions’ coffee culture
Long Black vs Americano: Which One Should You Choose?
Your choice ultimately depends on your taste preferences:
Choose an Americano if you:
- Prefer a smoother, more evenly distributed coffee flavor
- Want something closer to traditional drip coffee but with espresso’s complexity
- Don’t mind sacrificing the crema for a milder taste
Choose a Long Black if you:
- Love that rich crema layer on your coffee
- Want a more intense, layered espresso experience
- Appreciate the traditional Australian/New Zealand coffee culture
- Prefer a hotter drink
A Note on Coffee Quality
Regardless of which drink you choose, the quality of the espresso is paramount. At CoffeNZO, we believe that great coffee starts with great beans.
Whether you’re making an Americano or a Long Black at home, using freshly roasted, high-quality coffee beans will make all the difference.
Compare: Do Coffee Beans Go Bad?
Making Americano or Long Black At Home
Want to try both at home? Here’s what you’ll need:
- A quality espresso machine (pictured above)
- Fresh coffee beans (we recommend CoffeNZO’s signature blends!)
- Filtered water heated to 195-205°F (90-96°C)
- A pre-warmed cup
The technique might take some practice, but once you master the pour, you’ll be able to enjoy café-quality coffee in the comfort of your own home.
The Bottom Line
While Americano and Long Black might seem interchangeable, they each offer unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences.
The Americano provides a smooth, approachable coffee experience, while the Long Black delivers a more intense, traditional espresso-forward flavor with that prized crema layer intact.
Next time you’re at your local coffee shop (or better yet, at a future CoffeNZO location!), why not try both side by side? You might discover you have a preference you never knew about.
And remember—there’s no wrong choice when it comes to great coffee. It’s all about what brings you joy in that perfect morning cup.
Ready to elevate your coffee experience? Stay tuned for more coffee tips and insights from CoffeNZO. Whether you’re team Americano or team Long Black, we’re here to fuel your passion for exceptional coffee.
