Confused by the plethora of coffee specialities, from Cappuccino to Americano: our guide will help you find your way around.
1. Cappuccino
Originating in Italy, a cappuccino is a beloved espresso-based drink worldwide. Its structure consists of equal parts of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam, creating a harmonious balance of rich and smooth flavors. Italy, of course, remains a fantastic place to enjoy a traditional cappuccino, especially in a bustling Milanese café. However, its global popularity ensures you can find excellent cappuccinos in cities like Melbourne, Australia, known for its thriving coffee scene.
2. Vienna Melange
Hailing from Austria, the Vienna Melange is an elegant blend of espresso and steamed milk, topped with foam or sometimes whipped cream. Its light, creamy taste is a staple in Viennese coffee houses, with Cafe Central or Cafe Sacher being famous locations to enjoy this speciality. Beyond Austria, you can also find Vienna Melange in other European countries with strong Austrian influences, like Hungary.
3. Cafe Latte
A cafe latte is an espresso-based drink with a generous amount of steamed milk, typically in a ratio of 1:2 or 1:3. Originating from Italy, this creamy and mild coffee variant is ideal for those who prefer a less intense espresso flavor. The best places to enjoy a cafe latte are Italy and countries with a strong Italian influence in their coffee culture, such as Australia or the United States.
Coffee specialities for true lovers
4. Espresso
Known as the base for many other coffee drinks, an espresso is a highly-concentrated form of coffee served in ’shots.‘ Italy, its birthplace, is undoubtedly the best place to experience an authentic espresso, particularly in Naples where the drink is considered an art form. Espresso is also popular in cities with a bustling coffee culture, such as Seattle in the United States.
5. Americano
Americano, a diluted espresso, was created in Italy during World War II for American soldiers who found the local espresso too strong. It’s now enjoyed globally, especially in the U.S. and Canada, for its robust flavor balanced by a larger volume of water.
6. Flat White
The Flat White, an espresso-based drink with microfoam milk, was developed in Australia and New Zealand. It offers a stronger coffee flavor compared to a latte or cappuccino. In addition to Australia and New Zealand, the Flat White has gained significant popularity in the UK.
7. Turkish Coffee
Renowned for its strong, rich flavor, Turkish coffee is a unique method of brewing where finely ground coffee beans are boiled in a special pot called a ‚cezve.‘ It’s a must-try in Turkey, especially in Istanbul’s vibrant coffee houses, but can also be found in other countries that were part of the Ottoman Empire, such as Greece and Bosnia.
8. Irish Coffee
This warming cocktail from Ireland combines coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and topped with cream. It’s typically enjoyed in Irish pubs, particularly during cold winters. The Buena Vista Cafe in San Francisco, USA, is also famous for its excellent Irish coffee.
9. Cafe Cubano
Also known as Cuban espresso, Cafe Cubano is a sweet espresso shot that’s brewed with sugar. It’s a staple in Cuban culture and best enjoyed in Miami, USA, where the Cuban influence is strong.
10. Ristretto
Originating in Italy, Ristretto is an espresso shot that’s extracted with the same amount of coffee but half the amount of water. This results in a more concentrated and robust coffee. It’s a common offering in Italian coffee shops and anywhere with a developed espresso culture, like France or Spain.
11. Macchiato
An Italian classic, a Macchiato is an espresso ’stained‘ or ’spotted‘ with a small amount of foamed milk. This coffee delivers a strong hit of espresso softened slightly by the milk. Enjoy a Macchiato in Italy, or in places with a prominent coffee culture, such as Portugal.
12. Affogato
This delightful Italian dessert combines vanilla gelato or ice cream ‚drowned‘ with a shot of hot espresso. It’s a treat to enjoy in Italian gelaterias, but the simple, delicious combination of coffee and ice cream has seen the Affogato gain popularity worldwide, especially in places like Argentina, known for its quality ice cream.
