Coffee has woven itself into cultures for centuries, becoming more than a beverage. It sparks conversations and provides inspiration, described by Alessandro Bucci as the "common man's gold. " In our blended world where cultures influence one another, the coffee narrative has diversified. The caffè latte and flat white showcase coffee's evolution.
Imagine a bustling café in Rome steam hissing as rich espresso aroma fills the air, blending with Italian conversations and the romanticized caffè latte finds its roots here. Now go to a Wellington, New Zealand café where surfers and office workers get their morning fix. The flat white, an Antipodean gem is served with precision. Though similar, they signify different eras and preferences. "The flat white reflects our culture," says Mia Taylor. Its strong core surrounded by velvety milk embodies the direct Australian and New Zealand coffee scenes. The creamier, milder caffè latte mirrors laidback European cafés where sipping coffee can last hours.