What Is the Coffee Cup Score and Why It Matters
If you’ve ever stood at a coffee bar menu wondering whether to order an espresso, ristretto, or lungo, you’re not alone. These three classic Italian coffee styles might look similar, but they each offer a unique intensity, flavor profile, and experience.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between espresso, ristretto, and lungo — so you can confidently order (or brew) the perfect shot for your taste.
Espresso, ristretto, and lungo are all espresso-based drinks, made using an espresso machine. That means they share:
The key difference between them lies in the amount of water used and the extraction time — and these variables drastically change how each one tastes.
A classic espresso is the foundation of most coffee drinks. It’s made by forcing hot water under pressure through finely ground coffee for a short period.
An espresso delivers the essence of the coffee in a balanced and concentrated form — strong but smooth.
Ristretto means “restricted” in Italian. It uses the same amount of coffee as an espresso but half the amount of water, making it even more concentrated.
Ristretto shots are often used in specialty drinks or enjoyed as a standalone treat for serious coffee lovers.
Lungo means “long” in Italian. It’s made using the same coffee dose as an espresso, but with more water, creating a longer, milder drink.
A lungo is often confused with an Americano, but they’re different. An Americano is espresso diluted with hot water after brewing, while a lungo is brewed longer during extraction.
| Feature | Espresso | Ristretto | Lungo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water Used | ~36–40 ml | ~18–25 ml | ~60–80 ml |
| Extraction Time | 25–30 sec | ~20 sec | 40–60 sec |
| Flavor | Balanced, strong | Intense, sweet, rich | Mild, bitter, thinner |
| Body | Full | Thick and syrupy | Lighter |
| Acidity | Moderate | Higher | Lower |
| Bitterness | Moderate | Lower | Higher |
It depends on what you enjoy:
If you’re making coffee at home, experimenting with these styles can help you better understand your espresso machine and the beans you love.
Ristretto, espresso, and lungo are all made from the same bean — but like music played at different tempos, each one reveals a different dimension of flavor.
Whether you’re sipping a bold ristretto or easing into a long, smooth lungo, learning these distinctions helps you fine-tune your coffee to your exact taste.
Gabriel Rodrigues is a coffee enthusiast, cultural researcher, and writer who specializes in exploring the intersection of history, society, and gastronomy. Passionate about uncovering the stories behind each cup, he delves into how coffee has shaped civilizations throughout time. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him visiting independent cafés and chatting with baristas around the world.
