A Quick Guide to Coffee

by Iyath Adam

These days, ordering coffee can feel like sitting an exam. You just want something strong and nice, but the menu is throwing out words like affogato and macchiato, and suddenly you’re rethinking your life choices.

Whether you’re a strong-and-simple espresso person or all about that foamy flat white life, here we break down the most common types of coffee drinks here in Male’.

Espresso

The espresso is your classic short shot of coffee, brewed under pressure. No milk, no sugar (unless you want to) – just strong, intense flavour in a tiny cup.

Americano

An Americano is simply an espresso topped up with hot water. It’s smoother and easier to sip than straight espresso but still has that rich coffee flavour.

Cappuccino

The cappuccino is all about balance – equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. Creamy, comforting, it’s often dusted with cocoa or cinnamon powder on top for a fun twist.

Latte

A latte is espresso with lots of steamed milk and just a light foam layer. Think creamy, smooth, and made for adding flavoured syrups like vanilla, caramel, hazelnut and even brown sugar!

Macchiato

Macchiato means ‘stained’ in Italian –  as in, a shot of espresso stained with a dash of milk. It’s still strong, but with a soft edge, great for those who want a small pick-me-up coffee with some milk.

Flat White

If a latte and a cappuccino had a baby, then you’d get the flat white. It’s made with espresso and steamed milk, but with a velvety microfoam instead of the thick froth of a cappuccino.

Affogato

The affogato is technically a dessert, but we’re not judging if you call it your choice of coffee. It’s a scoop of vanilla ice cream drowned in a shot of hot espresso. Sweet, cold, hot and creamy all at once!