If you’ve ever looked at an Americano and a Long Black side by side, you might think they’re the same coffee in different cups. But these two drinks have very different stories, flavors, and brewing methods.
Americano
Origin: United States
How it’s made: Start with a shot (or two) of espresso, then add hot water.
Taste: Smooth, lighter-bodied, and slightly less intense than straight espresso.
The Americano was popularized during World War II, when American soldiers in Europe diluted espresso with hot water to make it taste more like the drip coffee they were used to back home.
Long Black
Origin: Australia & New Zealand
How it’s made: Add hot water to the cup first, then pour the espresso over it.
Taste: Stronger aroma, richer crema, and more intense flavor than an Americano.
This method keeps the crema intact, giving the coffee a fuller, bolder taste that’s especially loved in the Australian and New Zealand coffee scene.
The Key Difference
It’s all about the order of pouring. Adding hot water to espresso (Americano) results in a gentler drink, while pouring espresso over hot water (Long Black) keeps the crema and enhances the coffee’s intensity.
Next time you’re at a coffee shop, try them both and see which one wins your taste buds.
