7 Best Italian Coffee Beans In 2024 (Our Top Picks)

Does Italy grow the best coffee? Well, no. But they have certainly created some of the best coffee recipes and traditions. The profound coffee culture in Italy has rightly placed the country on the world coffee map, and we can’t wait to explore it with you.

In 1901, Luigi Bezzera from Milan came up with the idea of forcing pressurized water through coffee powder to produce a crisp, concentrated drink: espresso.

The beverage became uber popular in Italy and eventually, variations like cappuccino, mochaccino, macchiato, etc. developed. Found in coffee menus throughout the world today, these drinks find their origin in Italy’s coffee culture.

By now, you might be wanting to fly to Italy to have a nice cup of joe. If that is the case, brace yourselves because we are about to bring Italian coffee home. In this listicle, we have the best Italian coffee beans for you to check out and pick from. So, are we ready to sip on fine Italian coffee?

But before we start listing these Italian coffee beans, let’s discuss the factors that you need to look for before making a purchase.

Things to consider when buying Italian coffee beans

This is similar to a buying guide that will help you choose the right Italian coffee beans.

1) Type of bean

Italian coffee is typically made with Arabica beans, which are known for their sweetness and complexity. Some brands also offer a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans, which have a stronger, more bitter flavor.

2) Roast level

Italian coffee is usually roasted to a medium or dark roast, which gives it a bold, robust flavor. If you prefer a milder flavor, you may want to look for a light roast.

3) Origin

Italian coffee beans are grown in different regions of the country, each with its own unique flavor profile. For example, beans from the island of Sicily tend to be sweeter and more citrusy, while beans from the southern region of Calabria are known for their chocolate and nutty notes.

4) Certification

Look for coffee beans that are certified organic, Fair Trade, or Rainforest Alliance. The best Italian coffee bean brands ensure that the beans are grown and harvested in a sustainable and ethical manner.

5) Freshness

Freshly roasted coffee beans are always the best choice, as they have a more vibrant flavor and aroma. Look for beans that have a roast date printed on the bag, and try to use them within a few weeks of roasting for the best taste.

7 Best Italian coffee beans

1) Illy Classico whole bean coffee

Illy Classico Whole Bean Coffee is a premium coffee blend made with 100% Arabica beans sourced from the finest growing regions around the world. The beans are roasted using a proprietary method that produces a unique and consistent flavor profile.

Besides being perfect for espresso-based drinks and is also well-suited for drip coffee and other brewing methods. It is a versatile and high-quality coffee that is sure to please even the most discerning coffee expert. The best thing about this coffee is that it is packed in an air-free, pressurized can that enhances and seals in the precious aromas and oils, so you enjoy the freshest taste with every cup.

Pros

• Sustainability: Illy is committed to sustainability and has a number of programs in place to ensure that its coffee is grown and harvested in an ethical and environmentally responsible manner.
• Reputation: Illy is a well-respected and trusted brand in the coffee industry, with a long history of producing high-quality coffee. Its commitment to quality and sustainability has earned it a loyal following among coffee lovers around the world.

Cons

• Price: Illy Classico is a premium coffee blend and is priced accordingly. Some people may find it to be more expensive than other brands of coffee.

2) Starbucks Italian whole-bean coffee

Having a smooth, well-balanced flavor with notes of dark chocolate and toasted nuts, this coffee is part of Starbucks' Reserve line, which features small-batch, exclusive coffees from around the world. It is roasted in small quantities at Starbucks' Roastery in Seattle, Washington, and is sold at select Starbucks locations and online.

Probably the best Italian coffee beans for espresso, Starbucks Italian Whole Bean Coffee is sure to please coffee enthusiasts looking for a bold and rich flavor. Besides, this coffee gives an energizing boost making it the perfect way to start your morning. If you’re not a fan of hot coffee, this will make you amazing iced coffee too.

Pros

• Delicious flavor: This coffee has a wholesome and indulgent flavor with chocolate accents.
• Being a part of the Starbucks Reserve line makes it a hot pick.

Cons

• Limited availability: Starbucks Italian Whole Bean Coffee is only available in limited quantities at select Starbucks locations and online.

3) Lavazza Il filtro classico

Made in Italy, Lavazza Filtro Classico is a blend of coffee beans that are roasted and ground specifically for use in drip coffee makers or pour-over coffee brewing methods. It is a dark roast blend with a balanced flavor profile, featuring notes of dark chocolate and hazelnut.

It is made from a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans and is typically sold in ground form, making it convenient for use in a variety of coffee brewing methods.  Americans have been using this coffee to make espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos at home for years, and are loving it.

Pros

• High-quality beans: Lavazza is known for sourcing high-quality beans from around the world and carefully roasting and blending them to create their coffee blends. 

Cons

• Coffee reviewers are of the opinion that it could be a bit more punchy.

4) Caffe borbone espresso beans

Caffe Borbone is one of the best Italian coffee bean brands that produce a range of espresso beans and other coffee products. Caffe Borbone espresso beans are made in Napoli, Italy from a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans, and are roasted and ground specifically for making a rich and strong cup of espresso. 

The flavor profile of The Blu blend is set apart by its refined taste, powerful character, and intense aroma. It is also high in acidity. Coffee connoisseurs love its thick crema and biscuity taste. If you happen to try this coffee, let us know how you found it. 

Pros

• This coffee gives you the traditional taste of Italian coffee. 

Cons

• Some reviewers complain of the coffee being overly sour.

5) Eight O'Clock coffee dark Italian espresso

Are you someone who keeps their coffee close but their wine closer? If yes, then you will love Eight O’Clock Coffee Dark Italian Espresso. Its bold, full-bodied finish and the elegant aroma of chocolate and caramel place it amongst the best Italian coffee beans.

It is made out of 100% Arabica beans and ground ‘extra fine’ to get the perfect espresso. Also, do you know that these coffee beans have been around for over 100 years now? That simply tells us how well-loved this coffee is.

Priced at $5 per pound, the value for money here is delightful, and that also gives this coffee bag an edge over other gourmet Italian coffee beans in the USA. Also, this coffee is clean, and all the beans are of standard size. Given the huge base of loyal consumers, this coffee seems to be worth a try.

Pros

• Refined taste: The coffee offers an irresistible palette of chocolate and caramel.
• Quality: Espresso lovers vouch for the quality of this coffee.

Cons

• Some can find this coffee low in intensity.

6) Lavazza Espresso Italiano Whole Bean Coffee

Lavazza Espresso Italiano is a blend of Arabica and Robusta coffee beans that are roasted in Italy and sold as whole beans. This blend is said to produce a full-bodied, aromatic espresso with a rich, long-lasting crema.

The beans are sourced from various locations around the world, including Brazil, India, and Colombia, and are roasted using a traditional Italian method to bring out their unique flavors and aromas.

Lavazza Espresso Italiano is a popular choice for espresso lovers and is often used by professionals in coffee shops and restaurants.

The grind is neither too fine nor too coarse and is ideal for a Moka pot, filtered coffee, and French press. If we talk about the taste, one could find prominent hints of aromatic fruits and flowers in every sip. Most espresso drinkers believe that this coffee is great for everyday use at home.

Pros

• Sourced from a variety of locations around the world, resulting in a complex flavor profile.

Cons

• Some people may find the flavor too strong or intense.

7) Lavazza Qualita Oro Italian Coffee Whole Beans

The blend is made up of 100% Arabica beans and is very light and smooth. On the label it says "Perfect Symphony" and it is true that, like a symphony orchestra of flavors.

To truly appreciate its subtlety, you'll need a clean palate, but once you try it, you'll understand why it has so many five-star reviews and most likely won't buy anything else again. Also, this medium-roast coffee comes straight from Italy. 

A beverage made out of these beans will flaunt a fruity taste and a floral aroma. Think of blueberries, oranges, and peaches. Moreover, the velvety texture of this coffee will secure its place in your cabinet. Like other Italian beans, this one also makes excellent espresso.

Pros

• Use this coffee for your espresso and it will give you an excellent crema to savour.

Cons

• These beans carry a bitterness that some can find off-putting.

Wrapping up

These Italian coffee beans are carefully sourced and expertly roasted to bring out the unique flavors and aromas that make Italian coffee so beloved around the world.

Whether you prefer a dark, bold roast or a lighter, more delicate flavor, there is an Italian coffee bean that will suit your taste. Be sure to try a few different brands and roasts to find the perfect match for your preferences.

Whatever your choice, you can be sure that you are getting a high-quality, delicious coffee experience with Italian beans.