Why do so many people prefer their glass coffee rather than the traditional ceramic espresso cup? In Italy, coffee is nothing short of a national institution – a daily ritual shared by millions. The reasons behind the popularity of coffee served in glass range from aesthetics to sensory pleasure, and even practical considerations.
The aesthetic and practical appeal of glass coffee
One of the main reasons people opt for glass coffee is its visual appeal. Glass allows you to fully appreciate the beauty and layering of the coffee – from the golden crema that forms on top to the rich gradient of colours, from deep brown to light amber. This adds to the overall experience, especially for those who enjoy snapping photos of their coffee and sharing them on social media. Drinking a premium coffee blend becomes even more enjoyable thanks to the visual enhancement that glass provides. And for those who see their coffee break as a mindful ritual, choosing organic coffee with a transparent and sustainable supply chain is just as important as how it’s served.
Another key factor is temperature. Glass loses heat more quickly than ceramic, which means the coffee cools down faster. This is a definite plus for anyone who dislikes piping-hot coffee and wants to enjoy it right away without the risk of burning their tongue.
Coffee-based drinks traditionally served in glass
Beyond the classic espresso, there are several popular coffee-based drinks that are typically served in glass, each with a different type of glass depending on the recipe:
- Marocchino – espresso with cocoa powder and milk foam, beautifully layered in the glass.
- Mochaccino – similar to a marocchino, but with added melted chocolate or chocolate syrup, steamed milk, and sometimes whipped cream.
- Latte macchiato in a glass – steamed milk with a shot of espresso, served in a tall glass to highlight the layers.
- Cappuccino in a glass – a stylish take on the cappuccino, with visually striking layers of espresso, milk, and foam.
- Espressino – similar to the marocchino but with different proportions of coffee, cocoa, and milk foam.
- Affogato al caffè – a scoop of ice cream (usually vanilla) drowned in hot espresso, served in a large glass.
- Shakerato in a glass – espresso shaken with ice and sugar, served cold in an elegant glass.
- Ginseng glass coffee – a sweet and slightly spiced coffee drink made with ginseng extract.
Coffee served in a glass can please a wide range of preferences, from the refined coffee enthusiast to the more casual drinker. And when it’s brewed with a high-quality professional coffee machine that brings out every note and aroma in the blend, sipping it from a glass becomes a sensory – and visual – experience you’ll want to repeat every day.
Opting for glass coffee is about aesthetics, sensation, and perception. Glass enhances the beauty of the coffee, preserves its authentic taste, and offers a more engaging tactile and visual experience. For coffee lovers who want to savour a moment of pure pleasure, the humble glass cup is a refined and distinctive choice.
So next time you’re at the bar, try ordering your glass coffee – you might just discover a whole new side to your daily brew!