What distinguishes the Americano from the café au lait?

The distinguishing feature of an Americano is that it is made by diluting espresso with hot water, resulting in a coffee beverage that retains the bold flavor of espresso but has a lighter body, similar to drip coffee. This preparation method distinguishes it from other coffee drinks.

In contrast, a café au lait is typically made with brewed coffee combined with hot milk, creating a creamier texture and flavor that highlights the coffee differently than the Americano. The process and ingredients used in each drink significantly contribute to their unique profiles, with the Americano focusing on the espresso base and achieving a specific strength and taste through the addition of hot water.