Bad Translations

The first day in Italy, the owners of the Residence explained their idea of the "American Drawer".  In order to accommodate American residents, they decided to dedicate one drawer of their kitchen to what Americans would crave.  This drawer contained corn flakes, whipped cream, and chocolate topping.  They said that I can go into the drawer for "American Food".  

The next morning, I proceeded to pour myself some corn flakes.  They were very interested in the fact that I would put milk on the flakes, and were watching me suspiciously.  They offered me coffee and pointed to the milk, asking, "with cafe".  I thought the milk would cut the strength of the expresso, and replied that I would like milk with my cafe.  To my surprise, they poured the coffee right into my cereal, and watched as I struggled to eat it.  I complimented the gesture, (I didn't want to be rude), and insisted that I would do it myself the next day.  That I wouldn't want to trouble them.  

I have never again asked for coffee in the morning.