Coffee, a beloved beverage worldwide, is as diverse as the cultures that consume it. Over the centuries, various methods and traditions have evolved, giving us a plethora of choices when it comes to our daily brew. One can get lost in the myriad of names from coffee menus worldwide, with each promising a unique flavor and experience. In this guide, let’s demystify some of the most popular coffee drinks, from the robust espresso to the creamy macchiato.

1. Espresso:

The Backbone of Many Coffee Drinks
Derived from the Italian word “express” because it’s made quickly, an espresso is a concentrated coffee brewed by forcing hot water under pressure through finely-ground coffee beans. It’s intense, rich, and the foundation for many other coffee drinks.

2. Americano:

The Diluted Espresso
Take an espresso and add hot water. The result? An Americano. It has the strength of a regular black coffee but with the distinct taste of an espresso. Legend has it that it was named after the American GIs in WWII who diluted espresso to replicate their traditional drip coffee.

3. Latte:

Smooth and Creamy
A latte consists of one or two shots of espresso with several ounces of steamed milk, topped off with a small amount of froth. It’s creamier than a cappuccino and has less foam.

4. Cappuccino:

A Harmonious Trio
Cappuccino offers a balanced ratio of espresso, steamed milk, and frothy milk foam. It’s named after the Capuchin monks due to its color resembling their robes. It’s ideal for those who desire foam and coffee in equal measure.

5. Macchiato:

Stained or Spotted Coffee
Directly translating to “stained” or “spotted” in Italian, a macchiato is an espresso “stained” with a drop or two of frothed milk. It’s stronger than a cappuccino and latte but milder than a straight espresso.