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Bica

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description Bica Overview

Bica is a traditional Portuguese espresso-style coffee beverage that originated in Lisbon. The name is derived from the Portuguese phrase "Beba Isto Com Açúcar" (Drink This With Sugar), which was used to encourage customers to add sugar to counter the bitterness of the coffee. Unlike Italian espresso, which is typically made with a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans, bica is often made entirely from Arabica beans and roasted more slowly, resulting in a slightly milder, less bitter taste. Café A Brasileira, opened in 1905 in the Chiado district of Lisbon, is particularly famous for popularizing bica coffee among locals and visitors.

help Bica FAQ

What exactly is a bica in Portuguese coffee culture?

In Lisbon, Portugal, "bica" is the local term for a small, strong espresso-style coffee. It is equivalent to the "café" you would order in other parts of the country or a standard espresso shot elsewhere.

Where did the term bica originate?

The term is closely linked to Café A Brasileira, a historic coffee shop in Lisbon that opened in 1905. The name is reportedly an acronym for "Beba Isto Com Açúcar" (Drink This With Sugar), a slogan used to encourage locals to try the bitter new brew.

Who opened the famous Café A Brasileira associated with the bica?

Café A Brasileira was opened in 1905 by Adriano Telles. He originally imported coffee from Brazil to sell to the Portuguese public, popularizing the beverage in Lisbon.

How does a bica differ from an Italian espresso?

While conceptually similar, a bica is often roasted slightly lighter than a traditional Italian espresso and served in a slightly larger cup. It is traditionally consumed with a packet of sugar to balance its intense bitterness.

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