National Cappuccino Day

Today, November 8th,  is National Cappuccino Day. Cappuccino was created in Italy in the 1600s and got its name from the order of Italian monks known as the Catholic Capuchins. This group of friars wore small capuchins (caps) and dark brown cloaks (similar to the colour of the drink). The popularity of the coffee grew in the 1900s with the advent of the large espresso machines which we have become accustomed to seeing in restaurants and cafés creating the brew.

While in North America we drink cappuccinos throughout the day, in Italy, it is sinful to have a cappuccino with a meal and is meant to be enjoyed in the morning, usually with a sweet pastry, cornetto (an Italian croissant) and sometimes filled with creama (cream), jam, or Nutella.

Antico Caffe Greco or Caffe Greco as they usually call it in Rome is the perfect place to have a great cup of cappuccino with a pastry on the side. It is a historic landmark  which opened in 1760 on 86 Via dei Condotti in Rome, Italy. It is perhaps the best known and oldest bar in Rome.Today it remains a haven for writers, politicians, artists, and notable people in Rome.

Now I happen to see that the latest thing with McDonalds is McCafe. I first saw a McCafe in Rome a few years ago which only makes sense because what Italian doesn't like cappuccinos with fresh baked goods. So now I see that they starting to put in the cities here in North America. I wonder if I can get a cornetto here in North Bay. I'll have to try one day.

 Anyway, if ever in Rome, I do suggest you either head over to Caffe Greco or to McCafe for some great cappuccino.

Cheers All.