In this Italian Food Fun Fact, we share information about the invention of the Espresso Machine.
The first machine for making espresso was built and patented by Angelo Moriondo of Turin, Italy. It looked similar to the La Pavoni machine shown in the artwork.
Espresso is a strong coffee brewing method invented in Italy. It is different from other methods of brewing coffee in that it is brewed under pressure – thus a special machine. The machine creates a think, intense coffee. You’ll see it dispensed from the machine into shot glasses – small glasses.
Espresso is popular around the world and very popular in Italy. A “shot” of espresso with no milk and just sugar or plain. Espresso is what is used to make a latte, cappuccino, and other popular coffee drinks.
When an adult orders an espresso in Italy they ask for “un caffè per favore” or if they want it stronger, they’ll ask for two shots of espresso which is called a “doppio.”
The scene in the artwork is from the KeeKee’s Big Adventures in Rome, Italy book.
