If you love the boldness of espresso but wish it lasted just a bit longer in your cup, meet the lungo -an Italian-style “long” espresso that’s rich, nuanced, and stretched out for sipping.
Whether you’re new to espresso drinks or exploring ways to fine-tune your home coffee bar, this guide covers everything you need to know about this drink: what it is, how it’s made, and how it compares to other espresso-based drinks.
☕ What Is a Lungo?
Lungo
Lungo means “long” in Italian, and that’s exactly what this drink is: a long-pulled espresso. Instead of stopping the espresso shot after 25–30 seconds, a lungo pulls for 45 to 60 seconds, using more water and extracting more from the coffee puck.
- Drink size: ~2 to 3 oz (60–90 ml)
- Brew time: ~45–60 seconds
- Taste: Strong, slightly more bitter than a regular espresso
This method creates a larger, more diluted espresso shot with a deeper, roasted flavor and less intense body. It’s a favorite in parts of Europe for those who want a longer coffee experience without switching to an Americano.
🛠️ How Is a Lungo Made?
Making this drink is all about pulling a longer shot using the same amount of ground coffee as a traditional espresso, but double the water.
Standard Espresso vs. Lungo Brew Ratios:
| Shot Type | Coffee Used | Water Output | Brew Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Espresso | 18g | ~36g | ~25–30 sec |
| Lungo | 18g | ~60–90g | ~45–60 sec |
How to Make a Lungo at Home (Espresso Machine)
- Grind size: Use your normal espresso grind.
- Dose: Stick with your usual dose (e.g., 18g).
- Time: Aim for 45–60 seconds of extraction.
- Yield: Let it flow until you get about 60–90g (2–3 oz) in the cup.
- Taste: Expect a thinner texture, with bold, smoky, and sometimes slightly bitter notes.
💡 Tip: Avoid changing grind size for lungo shots. Let the water volume and time do the work.
🇮🇹 Why Italians Drink Lungos
In Italy, this drink is often ordered by those who want a slower-sipping coffee with less intensity than a straight espresso. It’s a common alternative to an Americano but keeps more crema and espresso character.
🥤 Lungo vs. Americano vs. Espresso
| Feature | Lungo | Americano | Espresso |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brewed with | Espresso machine | Espresso + hot water | Espresso machine |
| Brew time | Long extraction | Normal + water added | Short extraction |
| Taste | Bitter, intense | Smoother, watered down | Bold, rich |
| Crema | Yes | Sometimes lost | Yes |
| Strength | Medium-high | Medium | High |
🧋 Can You Use Lungo in Milk Drinks?
Yes! While not traditional, these shots can be used in lattes or cappuccinos for a milder espresso base. The larger volume softens the espresso’s intensity, which some people prefer in milk-based drinks.
🔄 Common Variations
- Doppio Lungo: A double lungo shot—great for large mugs or iced drinks.
- Lungo Macchiato: A lungo topped with a dash of foamed milk.
- Iced Lungo: Pulled over ice for a strong cold coffee.
🏠 Final Sip: Should You Try a Lungo?
If you’re experimenting with your espresso routine or want something longer-lasting than a short shot, lungo is an easy upgrade. It’s simple to make, distinctly Italian, and offers a more laid-back way to enjoy espresso—without needing a full milk-based drink or adding water.
🙋♀️ FAQs
Is this drink stronger than espresso?
In caffeine, yes (slightly). In flavor, it’s usually less intense but more bitter due to longer extraction
Can you make a lungo with a Nespresso machine?
Yes! Many Nespresso models have a button programmed for a 110 ml shot.
Is lungo the same as Americano?
No. A lungo uses more water during extraction, while an Americano adds hot water after brewing a standard espresso.
👉 You May Also Like
- Ristretto vs Espresso: What’s the Difference in Taste and Strength?
- How to Make the Perfect Americano at Home
- Espresso Basics: How to Pull the Perfect Shot Every Time
- Cortado vs Latte: What’s the Difference Between These Espresso Drinks?
