Espresso is not just coffee in Italy; it is a way of life. This is especially true at Fratellino Coffee Bar in Pavia.
Fratellino Coffee Bar
Address: Corso Mazzini, 3 – Pavia, IT
Website: https://www.fratellino.net/
Waking up in Northern Italy is a magical experience, as the sun rises over clay-tiled roofs with the outline of the Italian Alps in the background. Of course, our first thought of the day is where to find the best coffee bar?
Thankfully, this feat is easily accomplished as a friend recommended Fratellino, and WOW, it did not disappoint! It’s got that casual but sophisticated vibe that the Italians do so well. What’s more, it seems to come so easily to them. I do believe they are born with an innate sense of style and design know-how.
Modern Coffee Bar & Italian Style
Next, the exterior of the coffee bar itself has an aged patina, but the interior is fully “deck’d-out” in contemporary Italian style. Not surprisingly, their espresso machine is a state-of-the-art Faema. Finally, with the help of several baristas, it elegantly produces scores of espressos for all the customers who eagerly await.
Fratellino’s rich creamy espressos need no cream or sugar. Their coffee bar menu is expansive, and pairs perfectly with any of the pastries that are artisan crafted here daily. Indulge in amazing croissants, tarts and cakes of all sorts. I chose the “Crostata Crema e Pinoli” dusted with powdered sugar. Then pair it with a cappuccino deliciously topped with foamed milk. “Perfetto!”
Elegance of this Coffee Bar
Located near the heart of downtown Pavia, Fratellino is a great gathering spot. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the local coffee culture and “people watch,” as well. Many Italians and travelers gravitate here and their dining room fills up quickly. So, grab your seat early to truly enjoy it.
Whether it’s sunrise or sunset, you’ll find it the ideal time for Fratellino. During the evening hours, you see patrons sharing an aperitif with appetizers, or vino with pasta, as it seamlessly transitions from day into evening.
The Ancient City of Pavia
Additionally, the ancient city of Pavia provides an amazing backdrop to this enchanting coffee destination. It is steeped in history and culture, and was once the capital city of Italy. Furthermore, Pavia was the capital of the Ostrogothic Kingdom from 540 to 553, of the Kingdom of the Lombards from 572 to 774, of the Kingdom of Italy from 774 to 1024, and the seat of the Visconti Court from 1365 to 1413. Still today, this gorgeous northern area of Italy is known as the Lombardy Region.
The art, architecture and historical beauty surround you with every step you take in Pavia. While cobble-stoned streets lead you to explore the Cathedral, Monastery, Castle, or University dating back to the Medieval Ages. It is impossible to exhaust all the wonders of this ancient city. Its beauty is timeless, and its people and coffee culture are enchanting. Yet, for us Fratellino’s fabulous espresso is reason enough to come to Pavia.
Upon Reflection
The experience of coffee is universal. Just like standing under the same moon. I may be in a coffee shop in the US; in a small town in Georgia. While, you may be in a coffee bar in Pavia, Italy. Still, our experience, our feeling are much the same. We find the same thing; the thing we are looking for. I suppose, it is the human experience. A meeting place, gathering spot, full of good feelings. The warmth, the smells, the smooth richness of coffee as it passes over the lip of the mug. Oneness, really.
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