Long Black vs. Americano: The Subtle Difference Every Coffee Lover Should Know

 At first glance, a long black might look just like an Americano. Both are made with espresso and hot water — so aren’t they basically the same thing? Not quite. Once you dig a little deeper, you’ll discover that the difference lies in the details — and it makes a world of difference in flavor.

Where the Long Black Comes From

The long black originated in Australia and New Zealand. Traditionally, it’s made by pouring a shot of espresso or ristretto over about 100–120 ml of hot water. That might sound like a small variation, but it’s exactly what separates it from an Americano.

An Americano is made by adding hot water to espresso, while a long black does it the other way around — espresso onto hot water. This simple reversal helps preserve more of the espresso’s crema, giving the drink a richer body and deeper aroma. The long black also uses less water than the Americano, resulting in a more concentrated flavor and a more intense espresso character.

How It Tastes

Despite its strength, the long black isn’t meant to be “extra strong coffee.” Rather, it’s a more balanced way to enjoy espresso without diluting it too much. The added water opens up the flavors and highlights the unique notes of the beans and roast.

As the name suggests, it’s usually served black — no milk needed. The result is a clean, aromatic cup that showcases the essence of espresso. In Indonesia’s West Java, for example, a similar drink is simply called kopi hitam (black coffee).

For most people, describing the difference comes down to this: the long black tastes fuller, smells stronger, and has a more velvety crema on top compared to an Americano.

A Few Brewing Tips

Making a long black is simple, but precision matters. If the water is too hot, it can scorch the espresso and ruin the flavor. Ideally, the water should be around 70°C (158°F). This keeps the drink’s sweetness intact and helps maintain that beautiful golden crema on top. Too hot, and the foam will quickly disappear, leaving the coffee tasting harsh.

The Final Sip

The long black might look like an Americano, but its unique preparation gives it a character all its own. It’s perfect for coffee lovers who prefer their brew bold yet refined — or anyone curious to explore a slightly different take on black coffee.

It’s easy to make, so why not try it yourself? You might be surprised by how much difference that simple switch — pouring espresso onto water — really makes.