Espresso is something truly fascinating. Coffee is an entirely different entity. It is more of a short explosive shot of flavor. It consists of: coffee, tons of caffeine, and lots of heat. People do not drink espresso for enjoyment. They are unclothed, and within the first three minutes, they seem to have their life in control, as they shoved an obscene amount of fire into their mouth at positively 7:00 in the morning. I can go on about how much I hate mornings, but I do not want to dive into that just yet. I would much rather hold the cup. Why should I drink the espresso, when I can have a ‘copy’ of it made with a machine, or a random drink of energy? Because, espresso to its core is different. It is much smaller in volume, sharper in taste, and quicker. Perfectly suited for the mornings that you don’t want to get out of bed and are still feeling sleepy.
That punch of energy
Let’s look at the first perk and the most obvious one at that, caffeine. Espresso. A shot may look tiny and almost ridiculous, but for me, it’s serious business. Espresso is a strong coffee. Once taken, and with a little porcelain cup, espresso makes you feel like a jump start for your neurons. By the time it kicks in, you feel like a Christmas tree. Unlike filter coffee, where you have to sip and wait, espresso makes you feel jump started and boomed. Because of this, it is no wonder espresso is the main drink for business meetings at Italian bars. A shot of espresso, a conversation, and back to work. For people who have trouble with the slow pace of caffeine, espresso is your friend. Unlike drinking too much liquid coffee too fast, espresso you experience no gut rot.
Flavor, not just fuel
Caffeine is easily available. You can down an inexpensive energy drink or instant coffee. Espresso is equally about it’s rich ultra concentrate depth. Smokey, creamy and almost chocolaty essences drape itself on your tongue. You can’t understand it until you’ve had an espresso yourself. The dark carnival shadowed by porcelain covers hints of burnt sugar, velvet, and steam. The crema is an art of life, it breathes and semi-floats on the surface. Tan and silky smooth, crowds of fans lust over it’s beauty attempting to master the tricks of the barista. She simply pushes hot water through the coffee, and the energy particles dance. Those who know espresso, love it. It is rich and full of life, far from mundane dead liquid.
The ritual matters too
Let us face the fact, the espresso shot vibe is something most of us appreciate. RTurning to the office from home. Doesn’t matter. The bar of Rome with its grandeur is as much a part of the experience. As is the sophisticated machine. The wait is also a part of it. The only difference is that the machine is much more elegant than the typical. The presence of aroma makes your kitchen beautiful. All of the previously mentioned things add as much value to the drink as the drink itself.
Espresso is coffee with a dash of ritual. It’s surreal how the already short ritual of espresso gets even shorter. It in fact is as if a pause button is pressed. It’s a moment to rest. Five minutes of freedom. Leaning, scrolling, or doing absolutely nothing. Its as if from the kazoo world, one is transported into the dreamy world. It’s as if, for those five minutes, reality is caught up with.
Less volume, less nonsense
The enjoyment of drinking espresso: it’s portable, it’s pastry pairable, it’s ready in a minute, it’s a ten minute pick me up, it doesn’t require a corkscrew, a spoon, a glass, a side table, a saucer, a coaster.
Digestion gets a hand
In many cultures around the world, an espresso has become customary after meals, particularly in Europe. The reason? Because it does aid in the digestion process. Salivation increases, there’s more stomach acid, the system’s activity is more vigorous. You eat too much pasta, then bam, a quick espresso settles it. Some even say it helps with the post-lunch crash, that horrible feeling that makes you want to curl up under your desk.
Health benefits floating around
Coffee contains antioxidants. So does espresso. It also contains chlorogenic acid which could relieve inflammation, improve heart health, and is even good for the liver. There is a reason people say moderation is key. Once you hit the threshold of 7-8 cups a day, that health benefit flips. But, for now, the moderation we recommend shows that espresso is not harmless, but rather beneficial. Also, you spend less money and consume less sugar. It is not espresso that people struggle with. It is the side of espresso. There should be no milk bombs and no syrupy monstrosities. Just coffee. So, with the 20 fl oz flavored lattes you drink daily, if you switch to espresso, the thank you from your body is much greater. You lose calories effortlessly.
A small, weird side note
I am convinced of the fact that the flavour of expresso varies depending on the locality. At home, it is soothing although not exceptional. It is different in Italy, where it is far more elevated. At an airport kiosk, the drink is somehow even more disappointing, with hints of bitter, metallic, and sadness. Oddly enough, that is part of the mystery of expresso. Each one is an experience in itself, and the location is invaluable. Each shot is one of a kind and unrivaled by coffee even in a gallon’s volume.
FAQ about Espresso
Does espresso have more caffeine than coffee?
Per ounce, yes. But since a shot is only an ounce, you usually get less total caffeine than drinking a big mug.
Why do Italians drink espresso so fast?
Because it’s built that way. Small, hot, meant to be enjoyed quickly and move on with your day.
Is drinking espresso on an empty stomach bad?
It can feel rough. Some people get jitters or stomach acid, others don’t mind at all.
What’s the deal with crema?
It’s the golden-brown froth on top, formed when hot water emulsifies the coffee oils. Good sign your espresso is fresh and well-made.
How many espressos a day is too much?
Most people stick between 2–4 shots. Once you’re double-digits… it’s risky business.
Does espresso really help digestion?
Yes, to some extent. It stimulates stomach activity and pushes your system to keep moving.
Why does espresso taste stronger than coffee?
Same beans, but highly concentrated. Less water, more flavor in every sip.
