The Cappuccino is one of the most famous espresso-based drinks worldwide. It is renowned for its luxurious, airy foam cap and the balanced harmony between the rich espresso and sweet, steamed milk. In many parts of Italy, it’s affectionately shortened to “cappuccio.”
The name “cappuccino” is derived from the Capuchin friars. The color of the espresso mixed with milk was said to resemble the color of their hooded robes (or cappuccio in Italian). The drink’s history dates back to Viennese coffee houses in the 1700s, but the modern espresso-based version became popular in Italy in the early 20th century.