What’s the difference? Understanding coffee drinks on the menu
Because there’s more to coffee than just “black, or with milk.”
If you’ve ever stared at the coffee section of a menu, wondering what the difference is between a flat white and a cappuccino (and wondered whether you’re supposed to know), you’re not alone!
Today’s coffee menus are filled with options. But that’s not a bad thing. It just means there’s more than one way to enjoy a good cup of coffee!
Let’s break down the most popular coffee drinks so you can order with confidence … and maybe even try something new!
Espresso: The intense, silent type
This is the foundation of it all. A single or double shot of espresso is a small but mighty dose of concentrated coffee, made by forcing hot water through finely ground beans at high pressure. It’s bold, rich, and full-bodied, and served in a perky little cup, but packing a serious punch.
Try it if you like your coffee strong, with no frills.
Americano: The toned-down espresso
Add hot water to espresso and you’ve got an Americano – smoother, longer, and less intense than a straight espresso, but still pure, rich and full of flavour.
Try it if you want a black coffee that’s less intense than espresso, but more characterful than filter coffee.
Cappuccino: The classic crowd-pleaser
A cappuccino consists of equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. It delivers a great balance of bold coffee and creamy texture.
Try it if you enjoy a creamy coffee with a strong coffee taste and a bit of indulgence.
Latte: Smooth and mellow
A latte (short for caffè latte, or “milk coffee”) is made with a shot of espresso and topped with more steamed milk than a cappuccino, plus just a thin layer of foam. It’s gentle, milky, and great for customising with flavours such as vanilla or caramel.
Try it if you prefer your coffee milder, milkier, and easy-drinking.
Flat white: The velvety underdog
Originating in Australia or New Zealand (depending on who you ask), the flat white is made with a double shot of espresso and microfoamed milk — smooth and silky, without the thick layer of foam of a cappuccino or the volume of a latte. It packs more punch than a latte but still beautifully balanced.
Try it if you want bold coffee flavour with silky milk. No fuss, just flavour!
Macchiato: A hint of milk
An espresso macchiato is simply a shot of espresso “marked” with a small dollop of milk foam. It’s a short, sharp coffee with just enough softness to take the edge off.
Try it if you want something bolder than a cappuccino.
Mocha: Coffee meets chocolate
Part coffee, part cocoa, and topped with milk and foam – the mocha is your go-to if you can’t choose between hot chocolate and coffee. Rich, creamy, and indulgent.
Try it if you have a sweet tooth but still want your caffeine fix.
Iced versions
Many of these drinks come in iced versions too – a refreshing way to enjoy your favourites, especially in warmer months.
So, which one’s best?
There’s no wrong choice. Coffee is all about what you enjoy. Some days call for the punch of a flat white, others for the comfort of a latte. And if you’re feeling adventurous, trying something new might just lead to your next favourite!
* At The Daily Coffee Café, our menu is designed to offer something for every taste. We craft each drink with care and consistency, using expertly roasted beans and trained baristas who know how to get the balance just right, whether you’re sipping a strong espresso or easing into the day with a mellow flat white.
Next up
Next up in our “What makes a good cup of coffee?” series, we’ll be exploring the coffee bean. Because, before the brew, there’s the beginning – and it all starts with these little flavour-packed wonders!
