The Australian Coffee Menu
The Australian coffee culture is unique and diverse, with a strong emphasis on quality and innovation. If you're new to Australia or just curious about the local coffee scene, one of the first things you may notice is the extensive coffee menu.
While the menu may seem overwhelming at first, each item has its unique flavour profile and brewing method. In this post, we'll explore the Australian coffee menu and explain each item to help you navigate your next coffee order.
Black Coffee
Ristretto
Ristretto, which means "restricted" in Italian, is a type of espresso that is more concentrated than a regular espresso. It is made by stopping the espresso extraction process before the espresso starts to turn blonde. This results in a smaller volume of coffee with less water, creating a more intense and full-bodied flavor with less bitterness. Typically, a ristretto is served in a ceramic cup and has a volume of around 15 to 20ml.
Espresso
An espresso served as a single shot is generally between 25ml-30ml and is extracted in approximately 25-30 seconds. A 1:2 ratio is a great starting point for espresso. A ratio of 1:2 simply means, for every 1 gram of ground coffee, your espresso must weigh twice that. You can read more on Espresso Brew Ratios here. Espresso’s are commonly served in an 80-90ml ceramic cup.
Long Black
The long black is similar to an Americano. It is made with a shot of espresso and hot water. The hot water is added to the espresso shot to create a longer coffee drink that is less strong than an espresso shot. It's a great option for those who want a coffee with a smoother taste.
Macchiato
The macchiato is a strong coffee that is similar to an espresso shot. It is made with a shot of espresso and a small amount of frothed milk on top. It's a great option for those who want a quick pick-me-up.
Milk Based Coffee
Flat White
The flat white is a classic Australian coffee. It is similar to a latte, but with less microfoam. The milk is steamed to create a microfoam that is velvety and smooth. It's the perfect coffee for those who want a strong coffee taste with a creamy texture. A Flat White is generally served in a 200ml or 220ml ceramic cup.
Latte
The latte is a popular coffee choice in Australia. It is made with a shot of espresso and steamed milk. The milk is frothed to create a creamy texture and poured over the espresso shot. It's a great option for those who prefer a sweeter, milkier coffee. In most cafes in Australia a Latte is served in a 220ml glass.
Cappuccino
The cappuccino is a classic coffee drink that is enjoyed all over the world. In Australia, it is made with a shot of espresso, steamed milk, and a layer of frothed milk on top then sprinkled with chocolate powder.
Piccolo Latte
The piccolo latte is a smaller version of a latte. It is made with a shot of espresso and a small amount of steamed milk. It's the perfect coffee for those who want a strong coffee taste with a small amount of milk.
Mocha
The mocha is a popular coffee drink that is made with a shot of espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup or chocolate powder. It's the perfect coffee for those who want a sweet, chocolatey flavour with their coffee.
Affogato
The affogato is a unique coffee drink that is made with a double shot of espresso poured over a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It's the perfect coffee for those who want a dessert-like coffee.
In conclusion, the Australian coffee menu may seem extensive, but each item has its unique flavour profile and brewing method. Whether you're in the mood for a strong espresso shot or a sweet, creamy latte, there is a coffee drink for every taste preference. So, next time you're at a local cafe, don't be afraid to try something new and explore the diverse Australian coffee menu.
