Espresso (Café):
Description: A small, strong shot of coffee. This is the most basic and common type of coffee in France.
Serving: Served in a small cup, usually 30-50ml.
Café Allongé:
Description: An espresso with added hot water, similar to an Americano but typically weaker.
Serving: Served in a larger cup than an espresso, with a volume of about 100-150ml.
Café Noisette:
Description: An espresso with a dash of hot milk, similar to a macchiato. The name “noisette” (hazelnut) refers to the color rather than the flavor.
Serving: Served in a small cup.
Café Crème:
Description: Similar to a cappuccino, this is an espresso with hot milk and a little foam.
Serving: Served in a large cup, often around 150-200ml.
Café au Lait:
Description: Coffee with hot milk, usually prepared with a brewed coffee rather than an espresso. Commonly enjoyed at home for breakfast.
Serving: Served in a large cup or bowl.
Café Americain:
Description: Similar to an Americano, this is an espresso with a lot of hot water, making it weaker and more similar to traditional American drip coffee.
Serving: Served in a large cup, around 150-200ml.
Café Décaféiné (Déca):
Description: Decaffeinated coffee, available in various forms such as espresso, café crème, or café allongé.
Serving: The serving size depends on the type of decaffeinated coffee ordered.
Café au Lait:
Description: Coffee with hot milk, typically made with brewed coffee rather than espresso. Often consumed at breakfast.
Serving: Served in a large cup or bowl.
Café Viennois:
Description: An espresso topped with whipped cream, similar to a Viennese coffee.
Serving: Served in a medium to large cup.
Cappuccino:
Description: Although Italian, cappuccino is popular in France and consists of equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam, often topped with cocoa powder or cinnamon.
Serving: Served in a large cup.
Café Serré:
Description: A very short and strong espresso, with less water than a regular espresso.
Serving: Served in a small cup, typically 15-20ml.
Understanding these different types of coffee can enhance your experience when ordering coffee in France and help you choose the perfect option to suit your taste.