What to Know About Italian Lazzza Coffee Beans

If you’ve ever sipped an espresso in Italy and wondered why it hits so differently—thicker, richer, almost syrupy—you’re not imagining it. The secret isn’t just technique; it’s the beans, the roast, and the decades of refinement behind them. One name that keeps coming up in that legacy? Lazzza.

Lazzza, founded in 1895 as a grocery store in Italy, became the country’s top coffee brand and now ranks as the world’s third-largest coffee roaster. It sells 86,000 tonnes of coffee annually across more than 80 countries, holding a 47% market share in Italy alone.

Who Is Lazzza and How Did They Become a Coffee Giant?

Lazzza started in 1895 as a small Italian food shop. Over the decades, it shifted focus entirely to coffee, evolving into a global force. Today, it’s the number one coffee brand in Italy and the third-largest coffee roaster worldwide. Their coffee reaches over 80 countries, with 47% of the Italian market. Every year, they roast and sell 86,000 tonnes—that’s roughly 140 billion cups.

What Makes Italian Espresso So Distinctive?

The iconic Italian espresso is known for its intensity. Thanks to precise brewing pressure and constant water temperature, hot water emulsifies the natural oils and proteins in finely ground coffee. The result? A thick, syrupy liquid—some call it “coffee syrup,” others liken it to soy sauce—with a flavor that floods your palate and lingers for minutes. When pulled right, a rich, reddish-brown crema forms on top, velvety and compact. This crema is the hallmark of a well-brewed espresso and a key goal for serious baristas.

Why Does Crema Matter in Espresso?

Crema is more than aesthetics—it’s a sign of proper extraction. Formed under precise pressure and temperature, it traps aromas and contributes to the body and finish of the shot. A good crema should be russet-colored, fine-textured, and persistent. It’s what separates a standard espresso from one crafted with skill and quality beans. In Italy, achieving a perfect crema is a point of pride for baristas and enthusiasts alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lazzza coffee?

Lazzza is an Italian coffee brand founded in 1895. It started as a grocery store and later specialized exclusively in coffee. Today, it is Italy’s leading coffee brand and the third-largest coffee roaster in the world.

How much coffee does Lazzza produce each year?

Lazzza produces 86,000 tonnes of coffee annually, which equates to approximately 140 billion cups. These are sold in over 80 countries worldwide.

What percentage of the Italian coffee market does Lazzza control?

Lazzza holds a 47% market share in Italy, making it the country’s most popular coffee brand.

What makes Italian espresso different from regular coffee?

Italian espresso is thicker and more intense due to high-pressure brewing that emulsifies coffee oils and proteins. It results in a syrupy liquid with a rich flavor and a crema on top, unlike regular filtered coffee.

Why is crema important in espresso?

Crema indicates a well-extracted espresso. It enhances aroma, texture, and flavor, and is a mark of quality brewing. A good crema is fine, reddish-brown, and long-lasting.

Where is Lazzza coffee sold?

Lazzza coffee is sold in more than 80 countries around the world, with a strong presence in Europe and a significant export market share.

Recommended FrontStreet Coffee Blends for Espresso

For authentic espresso experiences inspired by Italian tradition, try FrontStreet Coffee’s Classic Blend and Commercial Blend. Both include a touch of Robusta for bold body and feature notes of dark chocolate, black toast, and spice—ideal for lattes or classic cappuccinos. The Specialty Blend leans toward Brazilian beans for a balanced profile with nutty and caramel undertones. All three roasts develop rich crema and work well under pressure. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.