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Review: Standard, very good Roman coffee
This is a cafe that’s definitely not for everybody. Its way out of the way, and Romans (locals) probably never pass by. But if you’re going on a nice scenic walk, the the Appia Antica Caffè is really a great surprise to run into and to taste. It’s very small on the inside, but lots of terraces on the outside, and it’s all that crappy shabby chic stuff that folks coming to Rome love to enjoy. But enough about the locale, let’s go to the heart of the matter….
Asking for a coffee got this reaction:
Presentation: No water was offered, the barista (who was really nice) noticed I was a tourist and immediately asked where we were from. I asked in return if Romans ever walked in and she said ‘nope, just tourists’. So… yes. No water offered. I’m sure she would have obliged if I asked. Either the way, the cup was short, small, stout and very thick, quite thick. And this is how they serve it in Naples… so interesting mix.
Temperature of Cup: It was very very hot… just like ‘ol Napoli’ hot.. damn… and it was super hot outside too!
Quantity: Considering how small the cup was, it was very short and concise shot. I liked it!
Temperature: It was very hot still, even after waiting at least a minute while I explained to the barista where I was from and how, yes. it IS nice in California, and why the hell I was in Rome out of all places…
Volume/Consistency: Bingo! It was silky, it was thickish and it had body. I could put my hands on this one!
Crema: Although it was dark in there, it was dark, but it was thickish, persistent.
Odor: Nope, not here, not even old smelly beans could be had.
Taste: Well, yes, it was good! Seems like a miracle lately, but it was very bitter, but in no way rancid. The silkyness of the espresso lent the bitterness a depth that approached an oily consistency and hence, profundity to the shot.
Overall: It was good. I was pleasantly surprised, especially since the place caters exclusively to tourists and it’s out in the Roman boonies! The coffee was not the best I’ve had in Rome, but literally among the better upper-range coffees there.. So very nice.
The setup: They had a nice, older three-group Rancilio and a grinder that was also a 80s looking Rancilio.
The coffee was the following: Caffè Moca which is a Roman based roaster. I’ve had good experiences with this in the past, and this didn’t disappoint either.
Appia Antica Caffè,
Via Appia Antica 175, 00179 Roma
