Il italian bar, one of the most iconic symbols of our country's social life. It is not just a place to drink a coffee on the fly, but a true meeting point between tradition and innovation, capable of adapting to new consumer habits and changes in society. From the growing popularity of cappuccino with oat milk to alternative coffee extraction methods, the sector is undergoing a transformation that, while changing skin, remains deeply rooted in Italian culture. A world that is photographed in all its evolutions by Bar Guide of Italy of the Red shrimp, come to his 25 edition.
A coffee that evolves, but remains the protagonist
In the Italian bar the coffee remains the undisputed king, especially in the winning combination espresso and croissant, which evokes the classic image of a quick stop at the counter. But today the offer is much more varied. Coffee is reinterpreted in a creative way, with alternative extraction methods like the V60 and the Aeropress, designed for slower and more conscious consumption, accompanied by increasingly scenic and sophisticated leavened products. The fillings are original and the design surprises even the most demanding palates, but without losing sight of quality and tradition.
In the meantime, the offer has expanded: more vegetal, healthier, more suitable for every moment of the day. In short, from sweet to savory, the bars have bent over backwards to satisfy every type of palate, from the coffee purist to the person who asks you for "something without lactose, without sugar... and possibly without regrets".
The aperitif: between innovation and tradition
The rite of theappetizer, much loved by Italians, remains a constant. If it Spritz continues to reign supreme, the venues are opening up to more innovative proposals, such as mock tail, coffee themed drinks and intriguing cocktail lists, increasingly elaborate and accompanied by food pairings that aim for excellence.
The numbers of the Bar Guide of Italy 2025
This year the guide is enriched with over 1.100 signs, up from 1.091 the previous year. A varied and transversal panorama, which celebrates both the great historic cafés, custodians of the territorial culture, and the most innovative realities, which experiment with new experiences for consumers.
At the regional level, the Lombardia is confirmed as the region with the highest number of signs (158), followed by Veneto(113) and fromEmilia Romagna (89). Southern Italy is also well represented, with the Sicilia (83) and la Puglia (82), which stands out for its 15 new entries.
illy Bar of the Year Award 2025: Gustificio of Carmignano di Brenta (PD)
The most coveted recognition, the illy Bar of the Year Award 2025, was assigned to Taste factory, located in Carmignano di Brenta, in the province of Padua. This place has distinguished itself for its concrete and daily commitment in favor of sustainability. Gustificio works closely with the social farm il Tomato from Bolzano Vicentino and with small local producers, while cocoa and coffee come from B-Corp certified companies. Technology plays a key role in the restaurant, thanks to 4.0 systems that allow to reduce and recover heat emissions. Furthermore, plastic is completely banned, even for purchased products.
Three Cups and Three Beans: the excellence of Italian coffee
They are 48 awarded venues with the highest recognition of the Three Cups and Three Beans, a title that celebrates absolute excellence. Among the places that have reached the Olympus of the Guide there are some important returns, such as the Roberto's Pastry Shop in Erbusco (BS), and new excellences, such as lost in Milan, which stands out for its high-level contemporary offering. Also Rainaldi Palace of Treia (MC) makes its debut in grand style, immediately achieving the highest recognition for its ability to provide unique experiences in an elegant and refined environment. Finally, Faro of Rome, with its unmistakable style, continues to enchant visitors from all over the world.
The Stars: the longest-running and most consistent venues
Among the most prestigious awards assigned by the guide, the following stand out: 18 stars, intended for premises that have maintained Three Beans and Three Cups for at least 10 years consecutive. This star rewards consistency and the ability to maintain high quality standards over time. Some examples of places awarded for the first time include Sweet & Savory – Gabriele Spinelli in Pianoro (BO) and Champagne in Palermo. Furthermore, the double star, a symbol of twenty-year excellence, was awarded to six establishments, including the famous Sicilian Coffee of Noto (SR), who enters the driving elite.
The main winners of the 2025 Italian Bar Guide
- illy Bar of the Year Award 2025: Gustificio, Carmignano di Brenta (PD)
- Sustainable local, with raw materials from small producers and advanced technologies to reduce environmental impact.
- Three Cups and Three Beans (maximum recognition) for places such as:
- Loste (Milan) – for its contemporary proposal.
- Palazzo Rainaldi (Treia, MC) – for the elegant and refined atmosphere.
- Faro (Rome) – for its unique and international style.
The stars
- Sweet & Savory – Gabriele Spinelli (Pianoro, BO)
- Champagne (Palermo)
- Caffè Sicilia (Noto, SR) – with a double star for twenty years of excellence.
In conclusion, the world of Italian bars changes, but always remains true to itself. And while coffee continues to be the anchor of our daily lives, bars are ready to surprise us with new experiences, unexpected flavors and a great desire to innovate. But one thing is certain: whatever the news of the moment, there will always be room for a good espresso on the fly.
