Coffee shops usually offer an overwhelmingly wide array of beverages. All drinks contain coffee, so it can be confusing to know what’s in the cup. Here’s a quick guide on how you can tell the most popular beverages apart.

Differences Between Beverages

1. Latte vs. Cappuccino

Both beverages contain espresso and milk; however, their proportions are different. Latte has more milk than espresso and features a frothy, foamed layer that can feature beautiful designs, like leaves or hearts. The ratio is 1/6 espresso, 4/6 steamed milk, and 1/6 foamed milk.

Cappuccino has a bolder taste because its recipe calls for equal volumes of espresso and steamed and foamed milk. The ratio of ingredients for cappuccino is 1/3 espresso, 1/3 steamed milk, and 1/3 foamed milk.

2. Iced Coffee vs. Cold Brew

These two beverages may look the same; however, they differ in the way they’re made. Iced coffee is brewed with hot water, then poured over cubes to chill the beverage. Cold brew is steeped with chilly water for a minimum of 12 hours. This process takes a bit longer, but you’ll get a bolder, stronger taste that’s less acidic due to the absence of heat. Both drinks can be enjoyed with added milk, cream, sugar, or flavored syrup.

3. Espresso vs. Drip Coffee

Espresso and drip coffee are set apart by their brewing time and ground size. Making espresso requires fine grounds and a special machine to push hot water through them at high speeds with strong pressure. The result is a rich beverage with a thick crema on top.

Drip coffee is made from coarse grounds that are poured over with hot water. A filter is used to separate the brewed liquid from the grounds. This process takes longer compared to making espresso, but you’ll get more caffeine because the coarse grounds are in contact with hot water for a longer period.

If you want to experience these delicious beverages, head to Maleko Coffee and Pastries in Honolulu, HI. Established in 2017, this local coffee shop is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, seven days a week. They offer a wide selection of baked goods and craft beverages, including malasadas, scones, sandwiches, and pizzas as well as cold brews and espressos. View their menu online, or call (808) 561-2846 to place a take-out order. Read the latest customer reviews on Yelp.