Long Black vs. Americano: What’s the Real Difference?

The Subtle Art of Coffee Choices (Long Black vs Americano)

If you’ve ever walked into a café and found yourself torn between a Long Black coffee and an Americano coffee, you’re not alone. These two espresso-based drinks look almost identical, yet their taste, texture, and brewing techniques set them worlds apart. So, what exactly is the difference between Long Black and Americano? And which one should you order to get the perfect coffee experience? Let’s break it down.

What Is a Long Black Coffee?

A Coffee Lover’s Delight from Down Under

The Long Black coffee hails from Australia and New Zealand, where coffee culture thrives on rich, intense flavors. Unlike a regular black coffee, a Long Black is all about preserving the integrity of the espresso.

The Perfect Pouring Technique for Long Black

To make a Long Black:

1. Start with hot water – typically about 120–150 ml (4–5 oz.).
2. Add a double shot of espresso – carefully poured over the water.

This method ensures that the crema (the golden-brown layer of coffee oils on top of an espresso) remains intact, providing a velvety texture and a bold, aromatic flavor.

What Does a Long Black Coffee Taste Like?

• Strong and full-bodied
• Slightly bitter but well-balanced
• Retains the espresso crema for a richer texture

When to Choose a Long Black

A Long Black coffee is perfect for those who: ✔️ Love a strong, bold coffee without milk ✔️ Want to savor the complexity of espresso without dilution ✔️ Prefer a more textured and layered drinking experience

What Is an Americano Coffee?

A Classic with a WWII Origin

The Americano coffee has an interesting backstory. It is believed that during World War II, American soldiers in Europe found espresso too strong and began adding hot water to it, mimicking the drip coffee they were used to back home. And thus, the Americano was born.

The Americano Brewing Method

1. Start with a double shot of espresso
2. Add hot water (about 150–200 ml or 5–7 oz.) directly to the espresso

Unlike the Long Black, in an Americano, the hot water is added after the espresso, which disperses the crema, leading to a smoother, more diluted taste.

How Does an Americano Coffee Taste?

• Milder than a Long Black
• Smooth and less intense
• Lighter body with less crema

When to Choose an Americano

An Americano coffee is a great option for those who: ✔️ Prefer a lighter, more diluted coffee ✔️ Want a drink that is similar to drip coffee but with a richer espresso base ✔️ Enjoy a smoother, less intense coffee experience

Long Black vs. Americano: Key Differences

Making a Long Black or Americano at Home

How to Brew the Perfect Long Black Coffee

Want to make a barista-quality Long Black at home? Follow these steps: ✅ Heat about 120-150 ml of water to just below boiling (90–95°C or 194–203°F). ✅ Pour the hot water into a cup first. ✅ Pull a double shot of espresso (about 60 ml). ✅ Slowly pour the espresso over the hot water to maintain the crema.

How to Make a Classic Americano Coffee

An Americano coffee is even simpler to make: ✅ Pull a double shot of espresso. ✅ Pour about 150-200 ml of hot water over the espresso. ✅ Stir gently and enjoy!

Long Black vs Americano: Which One Should You Choose?

The decision ultimately depends on your personal coffee preference:

➡️ If you love strong, bold, and layered coffee with a rich crema, go for a Long Black coffee. ➡️ If you prefer a smoother, more diluted coffee that resembles drip coffee, opt for an Americano coffee.

Both drinks offer a fantastic way to enjoy espresso in a longer, sippable form without milk. So next time you’re at a café, you’ll know exactly which one to order!

Final Thoughts: Every Cup Tells a Story

Coffee isn’t just about caffeine—it’s about culture, tradition, and personal taste. Whether you choose the intense layers of a Long Black coffee or the mild smoothness of an Americano coffee, each cup carries a story of craftsmanship and history.

So, which one will you be sipping next? Let us know your favorite in the comments!