Australia is famous for its beaches, wildlife and chill lifestyle, but if there’s one thing Aussies take seriously, it’s coffee!
Unlike in many countries where chains like Starbucks dominate the cafe scene, Australia’s coffee culture is built on independent spots with passionate baristas and beans sourced from all over the world. If you’re new to the country, navigating the coffee menu might feel like learning a new language. Don’t stress! Here’s your crash course in ordering coffee like a local.
Your guide to different kinds of coffee orders
Not sure what to order? You’ll see these classics you’ll see on almost every menu:
Flat white
Australia’s pride and joy. Similar to a latte but with less milk and a creamier texture thanks to microfoam.
Latte
Served in a glass with plenty of milk and a light layer of foam on top. A little smoother and milkier than a flat white.
Cappuccino
Frothy, with a thick cap of foam and a dusting of cocoa powder. If you like texture, this is for you.
Long black
Similar to an Americano, but stronger and richer. Made by pouring a double espresso over hot water.
Short black
The Aussie way of saying espresso - simple yet strong.
Ristretto
A shorter, more concentrated version of an espresso. Intense in flavour but less bitter.
Piccolo
Small but mighty, a piccolo is a ristretto shot topped with a splash of milk, perfect if you want something strong but not overwhelming.
Iced coffee
Not just cold coffee. In Australia, iced coffees often come with ice cream, whipped cream or both. If you order an iced latte, you’ll receive a glass of cold espresso, milk and ice cubes.
More than just flat white
While you can’t go past the classics, it’s always fun to experiment! New drinks are starting to pop up on cafe menus, giving you the chance to try something new.
Mont Blanc latte
Inspired by French chestnut desserts, this sweet, nutty drink is slowly making waves in specialty cafés.
Matcha latte
Vibrant green and made from finely ground Japanese green tea powder, matcha is packed with antioxidants and offers a more subtle caffeine boost than coffee.
Alternative milks
Oat, almond, macadamia and soy milks are everywhere. In fact, some cafés now specialise in plant-based milk pairings for coffee.
The cost of coffee in Australia
On average, you’ll pay $4.50 to $6 for a regular coffee, depending on the city and cafe. Expect to pay extra for alternative milks (usually 50c to $1 more) or for fancy options like matcha or turmeric lattes. If you’re in a trendy neighbourhood or at a boutique cafe, don’t be surprised to see prices closer to $7-8. Most cafes pride themselves on quality, so even your standard $5 flat white is going to taste great.
On a budget? Some cafes offer loyalty cards that reward regular customers (for example: buy nine coffees, get your tenth free), and many give a discount for anyone who brings their own reusable cup.
Beyond coffee: international alternatives
Turkish or Greek coffee
Rich, thick, and often sweet, this style is brewed slowly in a small pot called a cezve or briki. Perfect if you like your coffee strong and traditional.
Vietnamese coffee
Served hot or iced, this thick and delicious coffee uses condensed milk for sweetness.
Chai
You’ve probably heard of the Western-style chai latte, but you’ll also find authentic masala chai in many cafes, brewed with real spices and black tea.
Hot chocolate
For the sweet tooths among us, many cafes make hot chocolate with high-quality cocoa or even melted chocolate.
Herbal and fruit teas
If caffeine isn’t your thing, teas are widely available and often come in cute teapots to share with friends.
