The art of coffee in Emilia Romagna: traditions and curiosities
Coffee is much more than a simple drink: it’s a daily ritual, a moment of pause and an art form that unites people and stories. In Emilia Romagna, a land of flavours and traditions, coffee plays a central role in social life, with a culture that is handed down from generation to generation and enriched by unique characteristics.
From the historic bars of the cities to the small cafes of the villages, passing through the houses where mocha is still used, we discover the traditions and curiosities related to coffee in Emilia Romagna.
Coffee as a symbol of conviviality
In Emilia Romagna, coffee is synonymous with meeting and socializing. Ordering an espresso at a bar, sharing a coffee with friends or offering a coffee to guests at home are gestures that represent the friendliness and hospitality typical of the region.
Every moment of the day is good for a coffee:
• Breakfast: accompanied by a brioche, is the ideal way to start the day.
• Mid-morning break: a quick espresso at the bar to recharge your energy.
• After lunch: coffee is almost a must to end the meal.
• In the afternoon: often enjoyed with a traditional dessert, such as rice cake or sbrisolona.
The traditions of coffee in Emilia Romagna
The culture of coffee in Emilia Romagna is expressed in different traditions that make the relationship with this drink unique:
1. Coffee served with mocha
Although coffee at the bar is very popular, in Emilian houses the tradition of making coffee with moka is still alive. This method, which requires patience and care, is a symbol of hospitality, and home-made coffee is often accompanied by biscuits or sweets.
2. Correct coffee
A widespread tradition especially in rural areas and small villages is the correct coffee, that is the espresso enriched with a drop of liqueur, usually grappa, anise or nocino. It is a classic of convivial breaks, especially after meals.
3. Coffee and milk bolognese
In some areas of Emilia, especially in Bologna, coffee and milk is a morning ritual for many families. It is prepared with hot coffee and hand-whipped milk, served in large cups and accompanied by rusks or bread with jam.
4. Coffee with zabaione
A delicious habit that can be found in some taverns and inns is coffee served with a spoonful of zabaione. This rich and creamy mix is perfect as a dessert or to pamper yourself in the winter months.
The historic cafes of Emilia Romagna
Emilia Romagna has a long tradition of historic cafes, places that have been cultural and social reference points for generations.
1. Caffè San Pietro (Bologna)
Located in the heart of the city, near the Basilica di San Petronio, this historic café is famous for its welcoming atmosphere and the quality of its blends.
2. Caffè Grande (Modena)
A meeting point for artists and intellectuals, this café has its roots in the 19th century and is known for its intense espresso coffee and artisan cakes.
3. Caffè Carducci (Ferrara)
With its retro style and central location, this café is a must for anyone visiting Ferrara. Their creamy cappuccino is one of the best in town.
4. Caffè Zanarini (Bologna)
An iconic place under the arcades of Piazza Galvani, perfect for a relaxing break with a coffee accompanied by one of the famous fresh pastries of the place.
Coffee from Exè Restaurant
Also at Exè Restaurant, the art of coffee is celebrated with attention and passion. Here, coffee becomes the final element of a unique gastronomic experience, served with care and accompanied by home-made cakes.
Among the proposals stands out the coffee correct to nocino artisan, a refined revisit of an Emilian tradition, and coffee with zabaione, served as a dessert to pamper the most demanding palates. For those who love sweet flavors, Exè offers a selection of small desserts, such as almond biscuits or mini sbrisolona, perfect to accompany an espresso.
Curiosities about coffee in Emilia Romagna
• Local roasting: many coffees from Emilia Romagna use coffee blends roasted by hand from local roasters, which give a unique and intense aroma.
• Glass cups: in some bars of the region, espresso is served in glass cups, a tradition that allows you to better appreciate the color and creaminess of the drink.
• Coffee in the markets: in the city markets, it is easy to find small kiosks serving espresso at popular prices, offering an authentic and convivial experience.
Conclusion: a daily art that unites
In Emilia Romagna, coffee is not just a drink, but a real cultural experience that combines tradition, conviviality and innovation. Whether it is prepared with mocha, served with a traditional dessert or with a liqueur, the Emilian coffee represents a moment of pleasure and sharing.
Thanks to establishments such as Exè Restaurant and the many historic cafés in the region, the art of coffee continues to be enhanced and reinterpreted, giving visitors an authentic taste of Emilian hospitality.
You just have to stop at a bar or restaurant in the region, order an espresso or coffee and let yourself be conquered by the warmth and flavors of this timeless tradition.