In Mexico, cafés are laying it all on the line by standing up to U.S. policies. In doing so, they’re renaming the popular coffee drink formerly known as the Americano. Typically, this drink is made by adding hot water to a shot of espresso. Though its ingredients and preparation number remain known constants, it’s now developing a completely new sensibility in these cafés. As a form of protest, the name “Americano” is being replaced, reflecting the sentiments of many who wish to express dissent against perceived U.S. interference.
It’s beautiful, it’s delicious—the Americano is a foundation of coffee culture, beloved for its beautiful flavor and clear beauty. It is simply served as an espresso across the thousands of cafés and restaurants, relished by residents and visitors too. After much contemplation, some of our Mexican restaurants and bars have finally chosen to do so. They welcome the opportunity to engage with U.S. policies that they sometimes view as unfair. By changing their collective title for this well-known drink, they seek to turn the story around and take back their story, memory and culture.
This rebranding initiative goes beyond a simple name change, as it is the story of a community’s response to an increasingly intricate and complicated world. Changing the name of the Americano – that’s some risky business right there. It allows café owners and customers alike to voice their opposition to U.S. foreign policy. Renaming the drink resonates deeply with everyone. They think their national character and independence are under threat.
Though this evolution in nomenclature might suggest otherwise, the drink itself has stayed grounded in its origins. It remains a compelling shot of espresso. We finish it with hot water to maintain that loved flavor so many people have grown to love. Yet the spirit of the Americano lives on, even if its name does not. This one-of-a-kind model is indicative of the ways cultural practice can pivot through a political landscape.
More than 250 cafés from all over Mexico have joined this movement, creating their own unique interpretation of what the Americano should be. Others adopt them to honor their community’s cultural history and identity. Some take the humorous or ironic route with their titles to showcase a point or protest. This creative outlet has led to dynamic conversations between patrons. It showcases how beautifully culture and politics intersect, which makes the coffee experience all the more rewarding.
