Standing at a cafe counter while staring at a menu filled with Italian words can be intimidating. We have seen countless customers freeze up when asked if they want their drink “black” or “white.”
Americano? Flat white? Long black?
The confusion is understandable. Knowing the difference ensures you get a cup you actually enjoy.
This guide breaks down the specialty coffee menu so you can order with confidence.
Understanding the Foundation: Espresso
Everything on our specialty coffee menu starts with espresso. This is a concentrated shot of coffee made by forcing hot water through finely-ground beans at high pressure (usually 9 bars).
What Makes Espresso Special
We treat this as the heart of the operation. If the espresso is bad, the milk cannot save it.
- Concentration: It is roughly 2-3 times stronger by volume than regular drip coffee.
- Crema: You will see a golden-brown foam layer on top, which traps aromatics and indicates freshness.
- Extraction Time: Our baristas aim for 25-30 seconds to pull the perfect shot.
- Serving Size: A standard single shot is typically 25-30ml, while a double is 50-60ml.
- Caffeine Content: A standard double shot contains roughly 125-150mg of caffeine, similar to a small cup of strong brewed coffee.
The Black Coffee Family
We find that purists usually stick to this category. It allows the distinct flavor notes of the bean—whether fruity, nutty, or chocolatey—to shine without milk masking them.
Espresso (Single or Double)
What It Is: Pure coffee concentrate served in a small demitasse cup. Taste: Intense, syrupy, and bold. Best For: Purists who want to taste the bean’s true character. Try This If: You need a quick energy spike and enjoy strong flavors.
Americano
What It Is: Espresso diluted with hot water. Taste: Smooth and approachable, with a strength similar to traditional drip coffee. Best For: People who enjoy black coffee but find straight espresso too aggressive. Order Tip: You can ask for room at the top if you plan to add a splash of milk yourself.
Long Black
What It Is: Hot water with espresso poured on top. Taste: This method preserves the crema (the golden foam), giving it a slightly fuller texture and stronger initial aroma than an Americano. Best For: Drinkers who appreciate subtle textural differences. Regional Context: While Australian in origin, this drink has become a staple in Malaysia’s specialty coffee scene.
The Milk Coffee Family
Here is where most beginners get confused. The main difference between these drinks is not the amount of coffee, but the ratio of milk and the texture of the foam.
We use fresh milk steamed to 60-65°C to bring out its natural sweetness.
Latte
What It Is: Espresso topped with steamed milk and a thin layer of microfoam (about 1cm). Ratio: Usually 1 part espresso to 3-4 parts milk. Taste: Creamy and mild. The large volume of milk dilutes the coffee bitterness. Best For: Coffee beginners or anyone who loves a milky, comforting texture. Fun Fact: Ordering just a “Latte” in Italy might get you a glass of plain milk, as the word literally translates to “milk.”
Flat White
What It Is: Espresso with velvety steamed milk and a very thin layer of microfoam (less than a latte). Ratio: 1 part espresso to 2 parts milk. Taste: You will notice a stronger coffee punch compared to a latte because there is less milk volume. Best For: Those wanting the creaminess of milk but who still want to taste the roast of the beans. Origin: This is an Australian/New Zealand invention that dominates the KL cafe scene.
Cappuccino
What It Is: Espresso, steamed milk, and a thick layer of airy foam. Ratio: Traditionally equal parts espresso, milk, and foam. Taste: The texture is the highlight here. The thick foam feels airy, while the liquid underneath is rich. Best For: Foam lovers and traditional coffee drinkers. Note: In Malaysia, we often serve this with a dusting of chocolate powder on top.
The Key Differences Summarized
| Drink | Espresso | Milk Volume | Foam Texture | Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Latte | 1-2 shots | High | Thin/Creamy | Mild |
| Flat White | 2 shots | Medium | Velvet/Microfoam | Medium-Strong |
| Cappuccino | 1-2 shots | Medium | Thick/Airy | Medium |
Specialty Drinks Worth Exploring
We love experimenting with flavors that complement our beans rather than overpowering them.
Mocha
What It Is: A Latte combined with high-quality chocolate powder or syrup. Best For: Sweet tooths and chocolate lovers who need a caffeine kick. Variations: You might see White Mocha or Mint Mocha on seasonal menus.
Affogato
What It Is: Hot espresso poured over a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Best For: Dessert lovers or an afternoon treat when it is too hot outside for a warm drink. Try At Bubbs & Bites: Our affogato pairs hot espresso with premium vanilla bean ice cream for a temperature-clashing delight.
Flavored Lattes
Common Flavors: Vanilla, hazelnut, caramel, and peppermint are staples. Best For: Those who want sweetness without the heaviness of chocolate. Pro Tip: If you find standard flavored drinks too sweet, ask for “half-sweet” or “one pump only.”
Iced vs Hot: Does It Matter?
We know the Malaysian heat often makes a hot latte impossible to contemplate at 2 PM. However, temperature changes the flavor profile significantly.
Iced Coffee Considerations
- Dilution: Ice melts quickly in our humid weather. This weakens the drink within 10-15 minutes.
- Flavor Perception: Cold temperatures suppress sweetness and acidity. You might miss the subtle fruit notes in a single-origin bean.
- The Fix: Ask for “less ice” if you plan to sip slowly while working.
Hot Coffee Advantages
- Full Flavor: Heat releases volatile aromatic compounds. You smell the coffee before you taste it.
- Milk Texture: The silky “microfoam” texture of a flat white only exists when the milk is hot.
- Traditional Experience: This is how the roaster intended the profile to be tasted.
Ordering Tips for Beginners
We believe there is no such thing as a “wrong” order. But these guidelines help you find your match faster.
Start Here
- New to coffee? Start with a Latte. It is the friendliest introduction.
- Want something stronger? Try a Flat White. It has less milk, so the coffee shines through.
- Like texture? Go for a Cappuccino. The foam is fun to drink.
- Need focus? An Americano gives you hydration and caffeine without the heaviness of dairy.
Customization Options
Most specialty cafes, including ours, allow adjustments to suit your diet and taste:
- Extra Shot: Adds intensity and about 60-70mg more caffeine.
- Oat Milk: We use barista-grade oat milk (like Oatside) which pairs beautifully with medium roasts.
- Soy/Almond: Great dairy alternatives, though they may have a nuttier aftertaste.
- Sugar Levels: Unlike “Kopi” at a mamak, our lattes come with zero sugar by default. You control the sweetness.
How to Ask
Do not be embarrassed to ask questions. Our team prefers you ask rather than spending RM 12 on a drink you dislike.
Try asking:
- “I usually drink Kopi O. What is the closest thing to that?” (We would suggest a Long Black).
- “I like creamy drinks but not too sweet.” (We would suggest a Flat White).
- “Can I try a sip before committing?” (At some brew bars, this is welcomed).
Good baristas enjoy guiding people to the right cup.
What to Expect at Specialty Cafes
We aim to provide an experience that is different from a fast-food coffee chain.
Signs of Quality
- Fresh Beans: Look for roast dates on the bags. Coffee is best consumed 2-6 weeks after roasting.
- Proper Equipment: A clean steam wand and well-maintained espresso machine show the cafe cares.
- Grinding on Demand: Beans should be ground immediately before brewing, not stored in a container.
- The Sound: You should hear the loud hiss of steaming milk and the knock of the portafilter.
Common Specialty Coffee Terms
- Single Origin: Beans that come from one specific region or farm (e.g., Ethiopia Yirgacheffe). These have distinct, unique flavors.
- Blend: A mix of beans from different origins designed to create a consistent, balanced flavor (usually for milk drinks).
- Acidity: In coffee, this is a good thing! It refers to the bright, fruity, or citrusy notes, not the pH level that hurts your stomach.
- Body: The physical weight or “thickness” of the coffee on your tongue.
Your Next Step: Visit and Explore
At Bubbs & Bites Cafe, we have curated a menu that welcomes both beginners and connoisseurs. Whether you are here to work on your laptop or hang out with your pet, we have the right brew for you.
Black Coffee (RM 9-11)
- Americano, Espresso, Long Black
White Coffee (RM 11-13)
- Latte, Flat White, Cappuccino
- Vanilla Latte, Hazelnut Latte, Peppermint Latte
Specialty (RM 12-13)
- Mocha Mint Latte, Espresso Soda, Orange Espresso, Affogato
Blended (RM 12-13)
- Iced Blended Mocha, Ice Blended Coffee Vanilla, Frozen Espresso Latte
Not sure what to order? Just ask! Our baristas are happy to guide you to your perfect cup.
Bubbs & Bites Cafe 32-1, Jalan PJU 5/11 Dataran Sunway, Kota Damansara Hours: 8AM - 7PM (Closed Wednesdays)
Specialty Coffee 101: A Beginner starts with a single sip. The only way to discover your preferences is to try different drinks. Happy exploring!