Are you a coffee aficionado wondering if Starbucks offers lungo? Well, let’s clear the air: Yes, Starbucks does serve lungo or what they call a ‘long shot’. Our article will delve into everything you need to know about this unique espresso style at your favorite coffee chain.
Keep reading – there’s much brewing in this blog post!
Does Starbucks Serve Lungo?
No, Starbucks does not traditionally serve Lungo on their standard menu. Starbucks, being a global coffee giant, focuses on a range of espresso-based drinks tailored to the tastes of a broad audience.
While they do offer various sizes and intensities for their espresso shots, the specific brewing method and ratio of a traditional Lungo aren’t typically a part of their offerings.
However, if you’re a fan of Lungo, it’s always worth asking the barista if they can customize a shot for you, given the flexibility Starbucks often provides in customizing drinks. Keep in mind, though, that the result might not be precisely like a traditional Lungo from specialty coffee shops.
Key Takeaways
- Starbucks does serve lungo, which is also known as a long shot.
- A lungo at Starbucks is made by running an espresso shot for double the usual time, resulting in a larger and milder coffee drink.
- Lungo shots at Starbucks contain more caffeine than regular espresso shots but have a milder flavor profile.
- You can customize your lungo at Starbucks by adding syrups, milk or foam, and choosing the size and temperature of your drink.
What is a Long Shot (Lungo) at Starbucks?
A Long Shot (Lungo) at Starbucks is a type of espresso shot that is made using more water than a regular shot, resulting in a larger and milder coffee drink.
Definition and preparation
A lungo is a type of coffee drink made with hot water and ground espresso. It’s also called a long shot at Starbucks. To make it, we let the water run through the grounds for twice as long as a regular espresso shot.
This pulls more flavor from the beans, but not making it too strong. The word “lungo” comes from Italian and means “long.” So when you hear “lungo,” think about an espresso that takes longer to brew! You can find this drink at your local Starbucks store.
Difference from other espresso shots
A lungo differs from other types of espresso shots in a number of key ways, largely due to the extended brewing time.
| Type of Espresso | Key Differences |
|---|---|
| Lungo | A single espresso shot run for double the usual time, resulting in a larger, more aromatic cup of coffee. The flavor is often milder and more complex due to the extended brew time. |
| Traditional Espresso | Espresso shots are concentrated, delivering a robust, strong flavor in a small serving. The extraction time is shorter, typically resulting in a stronger taste than a lungo. |
| Ristretto | This is a “restricted” shot of espresso, meaning it’s brewed for less time than a regular espresso. It results in a smaller, more concentrated serving with an intense flavor. The strength is significantly higher than that of a lungo. |
| Doppio | Essentially a double shot of espresso, doppio is a stronger yet smoother coffee serving. It’s similar in size to a lungo, but the taste is stronger due to the double shot of espresso used. |
How to Order a Long Shot at Starbucks
To order a Long Shot at Starbucks, simply ask the barista for a Lungo and specify any customizations you would like, such as adding milk or sweetener.
Tips for ordering
To order a lungo at Starbucks, follow these tips:
- Specify that you want a long shot or ask for a lungo when placing your order.
- Be clear and confident when communicating your preference to the barista.
- If you’re unsure about how to order a lungo, simply ask the barista for guidance.
- Remember that a lungo is made by running an espresso shot for double the amount of time as a regular shot, so it may take longer to prepare.
- Consider any customization options you may want, such as adding milk or sweeteners.
- If you have specific preferences for the strength or intensity of your coffee, let the barista know so they can adjust accordingly.
- Take note that Starbucks offers various sizes for their drinks, so specify if you want a tall, grande, or venti size lungo.
Customization options
- You can customize your lungo at Starbucks by adding flavored syrups like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut.
- If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can ask for some sugar or a sugar substitute to be added to your lungo.
- For those who enjoy a creamier drink, you can request steamed milk or foam on top of your lungo.
- You can choose the size of your lungo at Starbucks, with options including tall, grande, and venti.
- If you want to make your lungo stronger, you can ask for an extra shot of espresso to be added to your drink.
- Starbucks also offers the option to customize the temperature of your lungo, allowing you to have it hot or iced.
- If you prefer decaf coffee, you can request a decaffeinated espresso shot for your lungo.
Remember that these customization options may vary depending on the specific Starbucks location and barista availability.
Frequently Asked Questions about Long Shots at Starbucks
What is the caffeine content of a long shot compared to regular shots?
Caffeine content
Lungo shots at Starbucks have a different caffeine content compared to regular espresso shots. Since lungo shots are pulled using double the amount of water and run for a longer time, they tend to contain more caffeine than a standard shot.
However, because of the extended brew time, lungos also have a milder flavor profile. So if you’re looking for a coffee drink that has a little extra kick in terms of caffeine but with a less intense taste, ordering a long shot or lungo at Starbucks might be the way to go!
Strength compared to regular shots
A lungo shot at Starbucks is not as strong as a regular espresso shot. This is because the longer extraction time of a lungo allows for more water to pass through the coffee grounds, resulting in a slightly diluted taste.
This extended brewing process also brings out more flavor compounds, giving the lungo a richer and more aromatic profile compared to traditional espresso shots. So, if you prefer a milder yet flavorful coffee experience, ordering a lungo at Starbucks could be the perfect choice for you.
Availability at different locations
Starbucks offers lungo at all of their locations worldwide, so you can enjoy this flavorful coffee no matter where you are. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a small town, Starbucks will have the equipment and trained baristas to make your lungo just the way you like it.
So, whether you’re craving a strong espresso shot or a milder lungo experience, head to your nearest Starbucks for a delicious cup of coffee.
Conclusion “Starbucks and Lungo: Everything You Need to Know”
Starbucks does serve lungo, which is also known as a long shot. A lungo is a single espresso shot that is brewed for double the amount of time to extract additional flavor compounds.
By specifying a long shot or asking for a lungo at Starbucks, you can enjoy this milder and more aromatic coffee experience.
FAQ
What is a lungo coffee?
A lungo coffee is a long espresso drink made with more water than regular espresso.
Does Starbucks serve lungo coffee on their menu?
Starbucks does not have the button for “long shots” like Lungo on their espresso machines but they offer other similar drinks.
How can I get a Starbucks beverage that’s close to a Lungo?
You can order an Americano at Starbucks, which is espresso beans with double water. It’s very close to a Lungo in size and taste.
Is there any difference between Starbucks Espresso and Lungo Coffee?
Yes, the main difference lies in how much water goes through the espresso beans making each drink different in taste.
Since we’re comparing, what’s the key difference between Lungo and Ristretto?
Ristretto has less water passing through it than Espresso or even long pull shots such as Nespresso or Lungos.
