un caffè, per favore
/un kafˈfɛ per faˈvo.re/word by word
In Italian, "one coffee, please" is said as un caffè, per favore.
This phrase is a polite request used to order a single cup of coffee. When you order un caffè, you will receive a shot of espresso by default, as this specifically implies a single shot of espresso rather than a long black coffee or a large cup of brewed coffee. While per favore is polite, it is also very common and acceptable in Italian cafes to simply say un caffè, grazie (one coffee, thanks) when ordering.
Which one should you use?
While un caffè, per favore is a standard polite request, you can use other forms depending on the level of formality. Using the conditional verb vorrei to say vorrei un caffè, per favore is a slightly more formal and common way to order.
How does it change in a sentence?
In the phrase un caffè, the word un is the masculine singular indefinite article, used because caffè is a masculine noun.
How do you pronounce it?
/un kafˈfɛ per faˈvo.re/
When do people say it?
When ordering coffee in Italy, it is common to stand at the bar rather than taking a seat at a table.
Did you know?
- Ordering un caffè after 11 a.m. or in the evening is common, but ordering a cappuccino during these times is often seen as a strange culinary mistake by locals.
- If you ask for un caffè while sitting at a table instead of standing at the bar, you may be charged a significantly higher price for the same drink.
- In many Italian bars, you pay at the cash register first and then show your receipt to the barista to receive your caffè.
Examples in context
- Vorrei un caffè, per favore.I would like one coffee, please.
- Solo un caffè, per favore.Just one coffee, please.
Example conversation
At a small cafe in an Italian city.
- FrancescoBuongiorno, un caffè, per favore.Good morning, one coffee, please.
- MartinaCertamente, lo vuole macchiato?Certainly, do you want it with a splash of milk?
- FrancescoNo grazie, solo un caffè semplice.No thanks, just a simple coffee.
- MartinaVa bene, arrivo subito.Alright, I will be right back.
