Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè Is A Rome Coffee Bar You Should Try

Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè is a Rome coffee bar you should check out if Italian coffee is something you love, but beware of the crowds at this very popular spot.

The popularity of Il Caffè Sant’Eustachio can’t be denied. When you are in Rome and making a visit to the Pantheon you will most certainly see the crowds around this bar that lives in the piazza of the same name. When you are nearby and if you are also feeling like you need a boost of energy, you definitely should grab a quick espresso coffee, and a seat if one is available, at the popular coffee bar in Rome. This coffee roaster was established in 1938 and is a popular meeting and resting place in the heart of the historic center (centro storico) of Rome.

Years ago, we had an ecommerce business that sold Italian coffee in the US, and we learned through our customer feedback that the popularity of Sant’Eustachio coffee is an example of people wanting to enjoy their Roman experiences again, but after returning home from their amazing vacation.

Where Is Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè Located?

This coffee shop is located on Piazza di Sant’Eustachio (#82) in the area (rione) Sant’Eustachio in the center of Rome. It is very conveniently located to a number of popular sites, for example:

• It is a block west from your visit inside the Pantheon and via della Rotonda.

• It is a block east of Sant’Ivo alla Sapienza and the Via della Dogana Vecchia.

• It is east of Piazza Navona.

• And it is not too far from Largo di Torre Argentina.

How Is The Coffee At Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè?

I will admit that when you consider the popularity of this coffee bar you may have a challenging time getting in, but with a little strategic planning, you will be successful. I made a couple failed attempts, but then I decided to show up when it opened and it was the right choice. I was served immediately and had a great caffè macchiato.

The Sant’Eustachio coffee has a lot of great flavor and they seem to focus on the arabica beans. I would say that the roast is a great balance of bitterness and smoothness with the obvious and successful goal of attracting an engaged audience. My recent tazzina was delicious and I was taunted by all the fresh pastry, but unfortunately, I already ate.

What Can I Buy At Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè?

If you stop by the coffee bar for a quick pick-me-up, you will certainly be tempted by all of their amazing gift ideas that can offer you the chance to bring this delicious coffee back home. Coffee beans are available in bags, cans and capsules. In addition, the beans are ground to different levels of fineness for different uses, like: American-style filtered coffee, Italian Moka and whole beans.

In addition to the coffee, you can also buy candies, chocolate covered beans, tartufi and cookies. If you are looking for other gift ideas, consider: espresso cups, thermos, bags and espresso makers of various designs for the coffee lover to enjoy at home.

How Much Is An Espresso at Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè?

I typically only order a simple espresso or macchiato, so I wouldn’t be able to give a complete breakdown of the prices, but as a point of comparison, my caffè macchiato that I drank at the bar cost a reasonable €1.50. Their bagged coffee and other gifts that you might want to take with you are a little pricey, but not to a rude level. For a 250g can of beans, you will spend €8.50, which is not unreasonable if a little high. €8.50 for a great experience that you take home with you is definitely worth it.

Is Coffee Important In Italian Culture?

Coffee in Italy is ubiquitous and it is an important part of everyday life. There are a wide range of espresso based drinks that can be enjoyed all day long and can also be used as a social lubricant, even more than in the US. There are regional differences in coffee styles that are loved by the locals that are produced both by large roasters as well as smaller local roasters which can vary largely and subtly.

Why Is Coffee So Important To Italians?

Most Italians I have met enjoy their favorite coffee everyday and some of the reasons should be familiar to Americans. They need to boost in the morning to face the day, they enjoy the taste of coffee, it is a habit they can’t or don’t want to break and because it can be a moment of relaxation during a busy day. The approach to coffee is different, even if the needs are the same.

What Is The Difference Between Italian And American Coffee Culture?

On a personal level, the biggest difference I have noticed and embraced is how much and how frequently the coffee is consumed. When I lived in the US, I would typically brew a pot of coffee that I would consume with my breakfast. If need be, I would bring the coffee to work with me in the car. After the morning jolt, I would rarely have more coffee because it would upset my sleep.

In Italy, the morning starts with an espresso, but not the full day’s supply. A bit to get you going with the expectation of more to come. Having an espresso break mid-morning is common, as well as after lunch, in the afternoon and after dinner. Spreading it out like this, for a reason I can’t explain, doesn’t affect my sleep, but it does give me that boost of energy throughout the day.

There is also a social aspect to having coffee during the day that is less common in the US. Morning and afternoon breaks are used as a way to step away from work and have a relaxed chat. In the US, my experience of sitting around, having coffee and chatting has been limited to my relatives that are retired going to a diner with friends or young people on a first, “safe” date.

Learn More About Italian Coffee Culture

Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè is only one of an almost endless supply of amazing coffee roasters in Italy and I plan to continue reviewing more of my favorites. If you are interested in learning more about the Italian coffee culture and delicious opportunities to experience it, check out some of our other posts:

• These Italian Coffee Roasters Are The Best In Italy.

• The Best Country For Coffee Must Be Italy And This Is Why.

• The Best Way To Make Italian Coffee At Home.

• How To Clean A Moka Pot In A Few Easy Steps.

• Coffee Bars In Italy Are A Unique Experience You Should Try.

• Is La Casa Del Caffè Tazza d’Oro The Best Coffee In Rome?

• Giolitti In Rome Just Might Be My Favorite Coffeeshop.

• How Do Italians Make Coffee At Home? I’ll Show You How.

• Gran Caffè Gambrinus Is Classic Italian Coffee Culture.