Ever Wondered About That Café Menu Mystery?
You’re at a specialty coffee shop. You see both Long Black and Americano on the chalkboard. They look the same—just espresso and water, right? But ask any barista, and they’ll tell you: Long Black vs Americano is a real thing. The difference might be subtle, but for coffee lovers, it’s everything.
Let’s unravel this caffeinated mystery and help you choose the perfect brew for your taste buds.
What Is a Long Black Coffee?
Straight from Down Under, Bold in Every Sip
A Long Black is an espresso-based drink with deep roots in Australia and New Zealand. It’s made by pouring a double shot of espresso over hot water (typically 120–150 ml). This specific order helps preserve the crema—that rich golden foam that holds aroma and flavor.
Image alt: long black vs americano side by side
Want to understand crema better? Perfect Daily Grind explains it here.
Taste Profile of Long Black:
- Intense, full-bodied
- Bold aroma
- Velvety texture thanks to preserved crema
Long Black is ideal if you want a powerful, undiluted coffee with layers of flavor—without adding milk.
🔗 Related: Brewing Time for Pour Over Coffee
What Is an Americano Coffee?
An Espresso Dilution with a Wartime Backstory
The Americano was born during World War II when American soldiers found European espresso too strong. They diluted it with hot water to mimic the drip coffee they loved back home.
In an Americano, you start with a double shot of espresso, then add hot water (around 150–200 ml). This reverses the Long Black method and dissolves the crema, resulting in a milder, smoother taste.
Taste Profile of Americano:
- Lighter and less intense
- Smooth and easy-drinking
- Minimal crema
Prefer something like your standard drip brew, but with richer espresso notes? This one’s for you.
🔗 Related: How Much Caffeine Is in a Cup of Coffee?
Long Black vs Americano: The 5 Core Differences
| Feature | Long Black | Americano |
|---|---|---|
| Brewing Order | Hot water first, espresso on top | Espresso first, water on top |
| Crema | Preserved, thick crema layer | Mostly dissolved |
| Flavor | Bold, rich, intense | Smooth, milder, more diluted |
| Texture | Velvety and layered | Thin, lighter body |
| Ideal For | Espresso lovers who want full strength | Drip coffee fans who enjoy gentler sips |
How to Make a Long Black or Americano at Home
Brew the Perfect Long Black:
- Heat 120–150 ml of water to 90–95°C.
- Pour water into the cup.
- Pull a double espresso shot.
- Pour espresso slowly over water to maintain crema.
Brew a Smooth Americano:
- Pull a double espresso shot.
- Add 150–200 ml hot water over espresso.
- Stir gently and enjoy!
🔗 Related: Store Coffee Beans for Freshness
Long Black vs Americano: Which One Is Right for You?
Let’s simplify:
Choose a Long Black if you:
✅ Want strong, bold flavor
✅ Love rich crema
✅ Enjoy a more textured experience
Choose an Americano if you:
✅ Prefer a mellow, smoother drink
✅ Like a more diluted espresso
✅ Want something closer to drip coffee
Still unsure? Explore more flavor profiles with Sumatra coffee or take a peek at Aceh Gayo green coffee beans.
Let Your Coffee Tell Your Story
Coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s personal. Whether you enjoy the strength of a Long Black or the smoothness of an Americano, your choice says something about your mood, your taste, and your coffee journey.
Just like choosing between a bold Espresso Roast or a delicate pour-over, understanding Long Black vs Americano brings you one step closer to coffee mastery.
Which one will be in your cup tomorrow—bold or smooth? Share your favorite in the comments!