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Best of Brakfast Episode 174 Yana Bolder
If you’ve ever walked into a coffee shop and felt overwhelmed by the menu—espresso, cappuccino, flat white, macchiato, cortado—you’re not alone. Coffee culture has evolved enormously over the years, and today there are so many drinks to choose from that even seasoned drinkers can get confused. To make your next trip a little easier, here’s a breakdown of the most common coffee options you’ll find in cafés.
1. Espresso
The espresso is the heart of nearly every coffee drink. It’s a small, concentrated shot of coffee made by forcing hot water through finely ground beans. Rich and bold, it’s usually served in a tiny cup and can be enjoyed straight or used as the base for many other drinks.
2. Americano
An Americano is essentially an espresso diluted with hot water. It has a similar strength to drip coffee but keeps the espresso’s depth of flavour. It’s perfect if you want a longer cup without the intensity of a straight espresso.
3. Cappuccino
A classic favourite, the cappuccino is traditionally made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. The foam creates a creamy texture and often comes with a dusting of cocoa powder or cinnamon. Great for a morning treat or mid-morning pick-me-up.
4. Latte
Lattes are smoother and milkier than cappuccinos. They are mostly steamed milk poured over espresso, with a small layer of foam on top. Lattes are often served in larger cups and can be flavoured with syrups such as vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut.
5. Flat White
Originating from Australia and New Zealand, the flat white is similar to a latte but has a higher coffee-to-milk ratio and a velvety microfoam instead of thick froth. It’s a favourite for those who want strong coffee without too much milk.
6. Macchiato
A macchiato is an espresso “stained” with a small amount of milk foam. It’s bolder than a latte or cappuccino but less intense than a straight espresso, offering the best of both worlds.
7. Mocha
If you like chocolate, the mocha is your friend. A mocha combines espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup or cocoa powder, often topped with whipped cream. It’s indulgent and perfect for an afternoon treat.
8. Cortado
A cortado is a Spanish favourite—espresso mixed with an equal amount of warm milk to cut the acidity. It’s small, strong, and balanced, ideal for those who enjoy espresso but want it slightly mellowed.
9. Iced Coffee & Cold Brew
Cold coffee options are becoming more popular. Iced coffee is brewed coffee served over ice, sometimes sweetened or with milk, while cold brew is steeped in cold water for 12–24 hours for a smooth, less acidic flavour.
10. Specialty & Seasonal Drinks
Many coffee shops offer seasonal specials like pumpkin spice lattes, gingerbread cappuccinos, or unique creations like turmeric lattes. These drinks often mix espresso or brewed coffee with creative flavours and toppings, perfect for a treat or trying something new.
Finding Your Perfect Cup
The best coffee is the one you enjoy. Next time you’re in a coffee shop, don’t feel pressured to know all the terms. Try a few, explore different roasts and milk options, and remember: coffee culture is all about experimentation and enjoyment.
Whether you stick to classics or branch out to new flavours, understanding the basics will make every coffee shop visit more satisfying.
An employment tribunal has ruled in favour of nurses who complained about a transgender colleague using a female changing room. Nurses at Darlington Memorial Hospital were found to have suffered harassment by their NHS trust. The case against County Durham and Darlington NHS Trust related to a policy allowing colleague Rose Henderson, who identifies as a woman, to use the facilities. Complaints began in 2023. Two people have died in […]
