Ammazzacaffè

Ammazzacaffè (Italian: [amˌmattsakafˈfɛ]; lit. 'coffee-killer') is a small glass of liqueur usually consumed after coffee to dull its taste or the effects of caffeine.^[1] It is a common Italian custom, especially after a generous festive meal.

Amaro, served right after espresso

Ammazzacaffè originated with the aristocracy, where it was common to move to a different room to smoke and to serve a cognac or brandy after dinner. It was eventually assimilated into popular culture, and is a common custom in Italy, even at lunch. It is usually a form of bitters, or a local liqueur. In some northern regions such as Lombardy Veneto and Trentino, people used to rinse out the emptied coffee cup with liqueur (traditionally grappa) that they would then drink (resentìn); this also happens in Piedmont, where this custom is called "pusacaffè".

See also

• Italy portal
• Drink portal
• Liquor portal