The flat white and latte macchiato are two espresso-based drinks that often confuse coffee lovers. While both combine espresso with steamed milk, they differ significantly in preparation, texture, and taste. Understanding these differences will help you order with confidence at any coffee shop.
What Is a Flat White?
The flat white originated in Australia and New Zealand during the 1980s. It consists of a double shot of espresso topped with microfoam—steamed milk with tiny, velvety bubbles integrated throughout. The key characteristic is the thin layer of foam, typically only about 5mm thick, which creates a smooth, creamy texture without the thick foam cap you’d find on a cappuccino.
A properly made flat white has a strong coffee flavor because the espresso-to-milk ratio favors the coffee. The microfoam blends seamlessly with the espresso, creating a consistent texture from the first sip to the last.
What Is a Latte Macchiato?
The latte macchiato, which translates to “stained milk” in Italian, takes a different approach. Instead of pouring milk into espresso, you pour espresso into a glass of steamed milk. This creates distinct layers—milk at the bottom, espresso in the middle, and foam on top.
The drink is typically served in a tall glass to showcase these layers. Because the milk goes in first and comprises most of the drink, the latte macchiato tastes milder and sweeter than a flat white.
Key Differences at a Glance
Preparation Method
The flat white is made by pouring microfoam over espresso, integrating the two. The latte macchiato reverses this—espresso is poured slowly through the foam into the milk, creating visible separation.
Milk Texture
Flat whites use microfoam with tiny bubbles that create a velvety mouthfeel. Latte macchiatos have more traditional steamed milk with a distinct foam layer on top.
Coffee Strength
The flat white delivers a stronger coffee punch due to less milk and the integration of espresso throughout. The latte macchiato is milder since the espresso is diluted by more milk and the layers remain somewhat separated as you drink.
Serving Size
Flat whites are typically smaller, around 5-6 ounces. Latte macchiatos are larger, usually 8-12 ounces, served in tall glasses.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose a flat white if you want a stronger coffee flavor with a smooth, creamy texture. It’s ideal for those who find lattes too milky but cappuccinos too foamy.
Choose a latte macchiato if you prefer a milder, sweeter drink with visual appeal. The layered presentation makes it popular for those who enjoy the aesthetic of their coffee.
Making These Drinks at Home
For a flat white, pull a double espresso and steam your milk until it has a glossy, paint-like consistency with no visible bubbles. Pour the microfoam directly into the espresso, allowing it to blend naturally.
For a latte macchiato, steam milk with more foam than you’d use for a latte. Pour it into a tall glass, let it settle for 30 seconds, then slowly pour a single or double espresso through the foam. The espresso should create a visible mark in the middle layer.
The Bottom Line
Both drinks showcase the beautiful marriage of espresso and milk, but they deliver distinctly different experiences. The flat white emphasizes coffee flavor and smooth texture, while the latte macchiato prioritizes sweetness, visual presentation, and a gentler coffee taste. Try both to discover which suits your preferences.