Unlike the cappuccino and the latte, the flat white doesn’t originate from Europe – instead, it comes from Oceania. Steamed milk was added to create a smoother, more palatable beverage.

The caffè latte was prepared in areas where American tourists often visited, as they were generally unaccustomed to the intense taste of espresso. The latte also traces its origins back to Europe – specifically to late 19th century Italy. Since then, the drink has become a coffee shop staple with its thick layer of milk microfoam. However, it wasn’t until the early 1900s, when espresso machines started to become more popular, that the name “cappuccino” was coined. Brewed coffee would be mixed with milk until its color reached a shade of brown similar to the robes of the Capuchin monks – supposedly an indication of “strength”. The cappuccino can actually be traced back to the 19th century coffeehouses of Vienna, where it was named the “kapuziner”.

The history of the flat white, cappuccino, & latteĮven though the makeup of these three drinks is the same, each beverage comes from somewhere different and has its own unique history. While all three of these beverages are made from the same ingredients – espresso and milk – they still have noticeably different flavors and textures. Three of the most prominent are the latte, the flat white, and the cappuccino. There are a number of classic espresso-based beverages that have been popular among coffee consumers for decades. How Are Flat Whites, Cappuccinos & Lattes Different?

Difference between flat white and latte