Coffee is one of the most versatile beverages in the world. From short, intense shots to long, smooth cups, there’s a style for every palate. One of the most elegant yet often overlooked espresso variations is the Lungo.
Meaning “long” in Italian, the Lungo is exactly that—an extended espresso shot that offers more volume and a different flavor profile than its more concentrated cousin. If you’re someone who appreciates the boldness of espresso but wants something more sippable and mellow, Lungo coffee might be your perfect match.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making the perfect Lungo at home: the method, tools, tips, flavor comparisons, and creative variations. Whether you’re new to coffee brewing or a seasoned home barista, this article will give you all the knowledge to enjoy this beautifully balanced beverage.
What Is a Lungo?
A Lungo is an espresso-based coffee that is extracted for a longer time than a regular espresso, using more water—usually around 60ml (2 oz) instead of the typical 30ml (1 oz). The result is a coffee that is less concentrated than espresso but still maintains rich flavor and a fuller body than a typical drip coffee.
What sets the Lungo apart is the way it’s brewed. Unlike an Americano, which involves adding hot water to espresso after brewing, the Lungo’s extra water is extracted through the coffee grounds during the brewing process, allowing for greater flavor complexity—and a touch more bitterness.
What Makes Lungo Special?
Here’s why so many coffee lovers are turning to the Lungo for a balanced, flavorful experience:
- ✔ Less intense than espresso – Milder flavor and lower acidity.
- ✔ More volume, same dose – Uses the same amount of coffee grounds as espresso, but with more water.
- ✔ More caffeine – Due to the longer extraction time, it may contain more caffeine than a standard shot.
- ✔ Flavor complexity – Extracts different compounds than a short shot, resulting in a layered profile.
- ✔ No milk required – Delicious and satisfying on its own, especially when brewed well.
Lungo vs. Other Coffee Styles
To understand Lungo better, let’s see how it compares to other espresso-based drinks:
☕ Lungo vs. Espresso
- Espresso: 30ml, short extraction (25–30 seconds), bold and concentrated.
- Lungo: 60ml, longer extraction (35–45 seconds), smoother and slightly more bitter.
☕ Lungo vs. Ristretto
- Ristretto: 15–20ml, shortest extraction (15–20 seconds), sweet and intense.
- Lungo: Opposite of Ristretto—longer, milder, with more bitterness.
☕ Lungo vs. Americano
- Americano: Espresso diluted with added hot water after brewing.
- Lungo: Brewed with more water directly, preserving flavor integrity during extraction.
Ingredients and Equipment
You don’t need a café-level setup to brew an excellent Lungo at home. Here’s what you’ll need:
🧾 Ingredients
- 7–9g finely ground espresso coffee
- 2 oz (60ml) hot water (or the equivalent extracted during brewing)
🛠 Equipment
- Espresso machine (manual or automatic) – preferred
- AeroPress (with technique modifications)
- Portafilter and tamper
- Small espresso cup or glass
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make a Lungo at Home
🥄 Step 1: Prepare the Coffee Grounds
- Use 7–9 grams of freshly ground espresso coffee.
- Grind should be slightly coarser than for espresso to avoid over-extraction.
- Distribute the grounds evenly in the portafilter and tamp firmly to ensure even flow.
💡 Tip: If your espresso tastes too bitter, your grind may be too fine.
🔥 Step 2: Adjust the Extraction
- Lock the portafilter into the machine.
- Start your shot and let it run for 35 to 45 seconds, until you have around 60ml in your cup.
- Aim for a consistent golden crema with smooth flow.
⚙️ Tip: If the coffee flows too quickly (under 30 seconds), make your grind finer. If too slow (over 50 seconds), coarsen it slightly.
☕ Step 3: Serve and Sip
- Pour the Lungo into a preheated espresso cup.
- Serve immediately while hot to enjoy its full flavor profile.
- Sip slowly—this is a drink meant to be savored, not shot back.
Tasting Notes: What Does a Lungo Taste Like?
A Lungo sits between the intensity of espresso and the smoothness of a drip coffee. It is:
- ✔ Less acidic than espresso
- ✔ More bitter due to extended extraction
- ✔ Fuller in body than most black coffee
- ✔ Ideal for detecting complex notes like nuts, dark chocolate, and wood
Creative Lungo Variations to Try
Want to change things up? Here are some ways to give your Lungo an exciting twist:
🧊 Iced Lungo
- Let your Lungo cool slightly.
- Pour over ice with a splash of cold water for a refreshing, robust iced drink.
☁️ Lungo Macchiato
- Add a dollop of milk foam on top for a creamier finish.
🍮 Vanilla Lungo
- Stir in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract before brewing for a gentle sweetness.
🍫 Mocha Lungo
- Add ½ teaspoon of cocoa powder or a square of dark chocolate to the cup.
🍂 Spiced Lungo
- Brew with a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy twist.
Expert Tips for the Best Lungo Experience
- ✅ Choose the right roast – Medium-dark to dark roasts work best, offering bold flavor without harshness.
- ✅ Use filtered water – Impurities in tap water can affect taste and extraction.
- ✅ Grind smart – Slightly coarser than espresso, but finer than drip. Use a burr grinder for consistency.
- ✅ Keep your equipment clean – Old coffee oils can add unwanted bitterness to long extractions.
- ✅ Preheat your cup – Helps preserve temperature and crema.
When to Drink a Lungo
Lungo’s balanced profile makes it suitable for different times of the day:
- 🌅 Morning boost – Great for those who want more volume than espresso without switching to drip.
- 📚 During study or work – Long-lasting and complex, perfect for focused sipping.
- 🍽 After meals – Not as intense as espresso, but satisfying enough to cleanse the palate.
- 🎨 Coffee tastings – Highlights origin notes that might be too subtle in shorter extractions.
Lungo for Beginners: Why It’s a Great Place to Start
If you’re new to espresso but find traditional shots too intense, the Lungo is the perfect bridge. It offers:
- ✔ A gentler introduction to bold coffee flavors
- ✔ A more forgiving brew process
- ✔ More room for exploration and pairing with flavors
Try it alongside dark chocolate, buttery croissants, or almond biscotti for a truly European experience.
FAQs About Lungo Coffee
🧐 Is Lungo stronger than espresso?
In volume, yes. In intensity, no. Lungo has less concentration but often more caffeine due to longer extraction.
☕ Can I make a Lungo with a Nespresso?
Yes. Most Nespresso machines have a “Lungo” button that pulls a longer shot automatically.
💧 Is a Lungo the same as an Americano?
No. A Lungo is brewed longer with more water. An Americano is an espresso diluted after brewing.
🥛 Can I add milk to a Lungo?
Absolutely—but try it plain first. If you prefer creamier drinks, try the Lungo Macchiato variation.
Final Thoughts
The Lungo is an underrated gem in the espresso world. Smooth, flavorful, and full of character, it offers coffee lovers the chance to enjoy espresso without the intensity of a traditional shot. It’s a versatile drink that works in all seasons, pairs beautifully with food, and opens up new ways to appreciate your favorite beans.
Whether you like it classic, over ice, or with a touch of spice, the Lungo is a refined yet accessible addition to your home coffee routine.
So next time you’re brewing, take the long way—sip slowly, enjoy deeply, and let your Lungo take center stage.