A lungo is a longer espresso-style extraction made by drawing more water through the grounds. It is not simply an espresso topped up with water. The longer extraction changes flavour; results and caffeine vary with coffee, dose, machine and recipe.
Lungo vs espresso and Americano
A lungo lets more water pass through the coffee during brewing. An Americano is made by adding hot water after an espresso shot. They may be similar in cup size, but use different methods. A lungo is larger and less concentrated by volume than a short espresso, though it is not automatically stronger or milder in every sense.
How to make a lungo
- Use an espresso or capsule machine that supports a longer-shot setting.
- Follow the machine and coffee maker's dose and preparation directions.
- Select its lungo setting or extend the shot only within the machine's recommended range.
- Taste it; shorten the yield if it becomes too bitter or thin.
There is no universal lungo volume or caffeine amount. For a larger cup with short-shot flavour, make an espresso and add hot water afterward. Capsule sizes vary, so follow the pod's instructions. See L'OR's guide to lungo coffee.
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