Italian coffee: from North to South, passing through Manaresi in Florence

Coffee is one of the most deeply rooted traditions in Italian culture. Its history in Italy began in the 17th century, when Venetian merchants imported it from the East. Over time, coffee consumption spread rapidly throughout the country, becoming a daily ritual for millions of Italians. Venice was one of the first centers of diffusion, thanks to its strong commercial relations with the Arab world. Although there is no single figure who can be considered the main promoter of coffee in Italy, some historic roasters and coffee shops, such as Caffè Florian in Venice, played a crucial role in making this beverage a national icon.

Coffee in the North: Golden and Gentle

In Northern Italy, the preference is for blends with a higher percentage of arabica, characterized by a more gentle and aromatic taste. The lighter roasting gives the coffee a golden hue, from which the association with "gold" comes. This characteristic makes the coffee of the North less intense than that of the South, but more refined and fragrant. Cafes in the North tend to serve a longer espresso with a slightly lighter body than the Southern version, often accompanied by a glass of water to enhance its flavor.

Coffee in the South: Dark and Bold

In Southern Italy, coffee is synonymous with intensity and character. Here, the blend includes a higher percentage of robusta, which gives the drink a stronger flavor with notes of chocolate and dried fruit. The roasting is darker, making the coffee blacker and more intense. The result is a shorter and more full-bodied espresso, often served very hot and sweetened. Tradition dictates that coffee be a moment of pause and conviviality, a near-sacred ritual that accompanies the day from morning to night.

The Florentine Coffee of Manaresi: A Perfect Balance

Florence, the meeting point between the two souls of Italian coffee, offers a balance between the gentleness of the North and the intensity of the South. Caffè Manaresi embodies this perfect fusion with three iconic blends:

• Gran Bar Gold (Oro): a gentle and aromatic blend, inspired by the Northern tradition with a predominance of arabica.
• Extra Bar Red (Rosso): a bold and intense coffee, recalling the full-bodied and dark espresso typical of the South.
• Super Bar (Marrone): a perfect balance between the two traditions, with a full and rounded taste that satisfies all palates.

Thanks to our experience and constant pursuit of quality, Manaresi represents the excellence of Florentine coffee, combining tradition and innovation to offer a perfect espresso in every cup.