Italy is bracing for an invasion of caramel frappuccinos, skinny soy mochas and cinnamon dolce lattes amid reports that Starbucks is to open its first outlets in the crucible of good coffee.
The United States multinational hopes to unveil its first cafe, complete with comfy sofas and wifi, in Milan next year.
It may herald a bitter clash of cultures. Italians typically drink a tiny, strong cup of espresso, or a larger, creamier cappuccino, while standing at the bar on their way to work.
Starbucks has been in talks with an Italian businessman, Antonio Percassi, to establish a toehold in the country, according to Corriere della Sera. Its office in London would not comment.
In Rome, some baristas and cafe owners turned their noses up at the prospect of skinny peppermint mochas and pumpkin spice lattes.
