Why Italians Serve Espresso With Sparkling Water, And You Should Too - Tasting Table
Briefly

When ordering espresso in Italian-style cafés, receiving a side of sparkling water serves multiple purposes. It acts as a palate cleanser to enhance the drinking experience and counteracts espresso's dehydrating effects. This tradition, deeply rooted in Italian coffee culture, signifies the barista's pride in their craft. Serving sparkling water is also commonplace in barista competitions, showcasing a refined approach to espresso tasting. Experimenting with flavored sparkling waters, especially citrus-infused options, can further enhance the espresso-drinking experience, making it more exciting for those less familiar with traditional practices.
The small glass of sparkling water served with espresso serves as a palate cleanser to prepare taste buds for the nuanced flavors of the coffee.
Espresso can be dehydrating, so pairing it with sparkling or still mineral water helps counteract the dehydration effect.
The custom of serving sparkling water with espresso is rooted in Italian coffee culture and reflects pride in the quality of the espresso being served.
Flavored sparkling waters can elevate the espresso experience, especially fresh citrus, which complements the coffee beautifully.
Read at Tasting Table
[
|
]