This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

Calling All Caffeine Addicts!

Whether it’s your alarm clock, your mid-afternoon pick me up or the only food group that matters- you may be in denial that you my amico, are addicted to caffeine. We have come to accept our love of this naturally occurring chemical stimulant because there is no “in between”. You either love it, or you don’t! We know if it were up to you, coffee would run on tap and an IV of that rich goodness would be flowing through your veins 24-7. We understand, we feel for you, and we accept you.

Need a Self-Diagnosis? If you answer ‘yes’ to any of the following- you may be a caffeine addict

  1. You drink coffee to prep for your business meeting…over coffee;
  2. You considered naming your first born Latte;
  3. You abuse the ‘Open Container’ law and have several empty to-go coffee cups on your passenger seat floor;
  4. You utter (or growl) the excuse “I’m sorry, I haven’t had my coffee yet” at least once a day;
  5. Your favorite foods include: coffee flavored ice-cream, espresso martinis and coffee cake; 
  6. You are proud of the fact that your order is begun the moment you walk into the shop.

So if you plan on feeding your caffeine addiction at least make your coffee top quality! Here at Pazzo Gelato, we want you to channel your inner C8H10N4O2 (yes, we’re getting scientific) and treat yourself to our delicious custom roasted beans! There are so many ways to get your caffeine fix that you will never get bored, although it’s important to know what you’re getting.  Intimidated by all those fancy sounding words? Here is our quick coffee primer for the newest members of the Pazzo Gelato Caffeine Club.

Find out what's happening in North Andoverwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Espresso: a notably strong black coffee created from the force of extremely hot water through properly ground coffee beans. This full flavored form of coffee can be enjoyed on its own as a ‘shot’ or as a base in other hot or cold beverages

Americano: Because all Italian (and most European) coffee is espresso based, Italians created a tamer Americanized version of coffee by adding hot water to espresso! Think of it as a bolder version of your typical cup of drip coffee.

Find out what's happening in North Andoverwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Cappuccino: A cappuccino is an Italian favorite! This coffee drink is traditionally prepared by combining espresso, steamed milk, and the perfect amount of foam. Mastering the balance between milk and foam is the key to creating the perfect cappuccino!

Latte: The classic café a latte as it is called in Italy is espresso and steamed milk without the foam of a cappuccino.  It is often combined with a variety of flavor shots.

Macchiato:  A traditional Italian coffee drink enjoyed by true coffee aficionados consisting of a shot or shots of espresso “marked with” just a dash of foam.

So now you’ve got your weapons of choice! We know that caffeine plays a leading role in your life and we want every cup, every shot, and every flavor made just right for you. So, why cheat yourself when you can get the best of the best?

Come in for your caffeine fix at Pazzo Gelato or feel free to explore our entire menu at www.pazzogelatocafe.com

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?