“What’s the best coffee?” is the question we get asked most often. The truth is that there’s no single “best” in absolute terms: there are different characters, and Neapolitan taste has its own champions. Here’s the map of the brands, from people who actually try them.

The Neapolitans

  • Kimbo — the most international of the Neapolitan brands. Founded in Naples in 1963, its Espresso Napoletano (80% arabica, 20% robusta) is the classic “bar coffee”: full-bodied, chocolatey, with a lingering crema. → Kimbo brand guide.
  • Caffè Borbone — born in Naples in 1997, it became the king of pods and capsules. High robusta, a “chocolate bomb,” incredible crema. Blends organized by color (Black, Red, Blue, Gold). → Borbone brand guide.
  • Passalacqua — the connoisseur’s choice. Founded in Naples in 1948, slow roast, low acidity, little bitterness. The Mexico blend is its signature. → Passalacqua brand guide.

The “northerners” (to understand the contrast)

Lavazza (Turin) and Illy (Trieste): more mainstream and international, generally softer/lighter than the Neapolitan taste. Illy is famous for its 100% arabica. → North vs. South · Kimbo vs. Borbone vs. Lavazza vs. Illy.

How to choose in two moves

  • Want the Neapolitan taste (dark, full-bodied, chocolatey)? → Kimbo, Borbone, Passalacqua.
  • How are you brewing it? Moka/cuccumella → ground coffee or beans “for moka”; machine → espresso beans; capsules → Borbone dominates.

Go deeper: the best blends in Neapolitan style · the right coffee for the cuccumella · where to buy authentic Italian coffee in the USA.

Ready to buy?

The best Italian coffee, our picks · gift ideas for Neapolitan coffee lovers.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the best Neapolitan coffee brand? The three classics are Kimbo, Borbone, and Passalacqua; the right choice depends on taste and brewing method.

What’s the difference between northern and southern Italian coffee? The South (Neapolitan) tends toward dark roasts and blends with robusta; the North toward lighter profiles, often 100% arabica.

Which brand for capsules? Borbone is among the strongest on pods and compatible capsules.