Long Black

Long Black

Australia / New Zealand

Often confused with an Americano, but the difference matters. A long black pours a double ristretto over hot water (not the other way around), which preserves a thick crema on top and delivers a more intense, full-bodied cup. It's the default black coffee order in Australian and Kiwi cafés.

Brew Time25–30 seconds (espresso) + assembly
Temperature85–90°C (185–194°F) for the water
RatioDouble ristretto over 100–130ml hot water
GrindFine — same as espresso

How to make it

  1. 1

    Fill a cup with 100–130ml of hot water at about 85°C — cooler than boiling to avoid burning the crema.

  2. 2

    Pull a double ristretto shot.

  3. 3

    Gently pour the ristretto over the water so the crema floats intact on the surface.

  4. 4

    Serve without stirring — let the drinker decide how to mix it.