The final word on flat whites (it’s not a latte)

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Are you confused about the difference between a flat white and a latte? Join the club. No one can agree on what a flat white is or is not. Not even the people who invented them in New Zealand … or was it Australia?

Well, I’m saying this is what it is once and for all. For America. For the world. And it’s definitely not a latte.

And while these popular espresso-based drinks might look similar at first glance, a couple key features set them apart.

Read on if you don’t want to be in the dark any longer.

A flat white’s milk is different

A flat white features a thin, velvety layer of microfoam that seamlessly blends with the espresso. In contrast, a latte has a thicker, more distinctive layer of foam sitting atop the drink. You can do latte art in both, but the flat white will be thinner.

Flat whites are awesome. Just look at this one I poured recently. That cup is the notNeutral Lino 6oz. (There’s a link to buy one below if you’re on the hunt.)

Flat whites are smaller but pack a punch

When it comes to size and coffee intensity, here's what you need to know:

Flat White

• Typically served in a smaller cup (5-6 ounces).

• Stronger coffee flavor because of less milk.

• Two shots of espresso. Two. Two. Two.

Latte

• Served in a larger cup (10-12 ounces).

• More balanced taste because it has more milk.

• Same amount of espresso. Two shots. If you make a 16 ounce latte, you’ll have 3 shots or more.

(Pssst… btw, you’ll also need a milk pitcher that’s right for your flat white. Read this article on pitchers to learn more.)

Final thoughts

Hopefully this clears up the issue for you. If this article helped you and you want to both support Rob’s Coffee Guide and make a flat white, but a 6 ounce cup from notNeutral using the button below. I have two of them. They’re awesome.

Be a gem and subscribe to my Youtube channel. Until next time… peace. -Rob