Coffee Menu Guide for Beginners: From Americano to Flat White

You’ve got a leash in one hand, a restless pup at your feet, and a menu full of Italian words staring you in the face. It’s a familiar scene for many of our regulars here at Bubbs & Bites. When you only have a split second to order before your dog tries to befriend the cat at the next table, you need to know exactly what you’re getting.

The difference between a Flat White and a Latte might seem small, but it changes your entire morning experience. We’re breaking down the menu so you can order with confidence, grab your cup, and get back to your furry friend.

The Foundation: Espresso

Everything on our menu starts here. Espresso is a concentrated form of coffee created by forcing hot water through finely-ground beans at high pressure (usually 9 bars). It is the heart of specialty coffee.

The “Crema” Indicator When we pull a shot, we look for a golden-brown foam on top called “crema.” This layer traps the complex aromatics and flavors. If your espresso arrives with a rich, tiger-striped crema, you know it’s fresh.

Taste: Intense, syrupy, and vibrant Size: Small—usually 30-40ml per shot The “Insider” Tip: A perfect espresso extraction takes about 25 to 30 seconds. If your coffee arrives instantly after you order, it might have been sitting there—don’t be afraid to ask for a fresh pull.

The Black Coffee Series

Americano (RM 9.00)

This is the standard order for those who want a long, sipping coffee without the milk. We make ours by pulling a double shot of espresso and topping it up with hot water.

What you get: Espresso + hot water (Crema is usually broken) Taste: Clean, bold, and straightforward Best for: Morning walks with the dog when you need hydration and caffeine.

The “Long Black” Distinction

You might see “Long Black” on menus in other Malaysian specialty cafes.

The Difference: A Long Black is made by pouring the espresso over the hot water.
Why it matters: This preserves the golden crema on top, giving you a stronger aroma and a slightly bolder first sip compared to an Americano. If you prefer that intensity, just ask us to “pour it as a Long Black.”

The Milk Series

Latte (RM 11.00)

The Latte is the crowd favorite for a reason. It uses a higher ratio of steamed milk to espresso, which mellows out the bitterness of the coffee. We use a thin layer of microfoam on top, just enough for latte art.

What you get: 1 part espresso + 4 parts steamed milk + minimal foam Taste: Sweet, creamy, and gentle Best for: A slow brunch while your pet naps under the table. Local Tip: Oat milk has become huge in Malaysia recently (brands like Oatside are everywhere). Its natural sweetness pairs perfectly with our nutty espresso blend—ask for the switch if you’re avoiding dairy.

Cappuccino (RM 11.00)

If you love texture, this is your drink. A cappuccino has much more foam than a latte. We stretch the milk longer to create a thick, marshmallow-like layer of foam that sits on top of the coffee.

What you get: Equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and thick foam Taste: A strong coffee punch through a cloud of airy foam The “Spoon Test”: The foam on a good cappuccino should be dense enough to hold a sprinkle of sugar for a second before it sinks.

Flat White (RM 11.00)

Originating from Australia and New Zealand, this drink has become a staple in Malaysia’s cafe scene. It is similar to a latte but with two key differences: less milk volume and a “flatter” foam (microfoam).

What you get: Double ristretto (usually) + less steamed milk + very thin microfoam Taste: Stronger coffee flavor than a latte with a velvety, silky texture Best for: The “purist” who wants to taste the beans, not just the milk.

Feature	Latte	Flat White	Cappuccino
Milk Volume	High (Creamy)	Medium (Stronger)	Medium (Foamy)
Foam Depth	Thin (~1cm)	Very Thin (~0.5cm)	Thick (~2cm+)
Caffeine	Standard	Often Double Shot	Standard

The Sweet Treats

Mocha (RM 12.00)

Think of this as a hot chocolate with a kick. We mix high-quality cocoa with our espresso before adding steamed milk. It’s a great gateway drink if you’re still getting used to the taste of coffee.

What you get: Espresso + cocoa + steamed milk Taste: Rich chocolate with a coffee finish Calorie Note: Since this contains chocolate syrup or powder, it’s higher in calories (roughly 250-300 kcal) compared to a standard latte (~120-150 kcal).

Affogato (RM 12.00)

This is less of a drink and more of a dessert. We pour a hot double shot of espresso directly over a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream.

What you get: Espresso + vanilla ice cream Taste: A hot-and-cold mix of bitter coffee and sweet cream Best for: Treating yourself after a long grooming session with your pet.

Our Unique Creations

At Bubbs & Bites, we love experimenting with flavors that suit our tropical weather. See our full specialty coffee & drinks menu for all options.

Espresso Soda (RM 12.00)

We mix a double shot of espresso with chilled tonic water or soda and ice. The carbonation expands the coffee’s flavor profile, making it taste citrusy and bright. It’s like a non-alcoholic coffee cocktail.

Orange Espresso (RM 13.00)

This trend has taken Malaysian cafes by storm. We layer fresh orange juice with cold brew or espresso. The acidity of the orange balances the bitterness of the coffee, creating a drink that is surprisingly refreshing on a hot afternoon.

A Note for Your Furry Friend

We know they are eyeing your food. While you enjoy your Flat White, we offer a complimentary “Puppuccino” (a small cup of dog-safe whipped cream) for your four-legged companion. Just ask our team at the counter!

Our Recommendation for Beginners

Start with a Latte. It is the most approachable option. The milk softens the coffee, giving you a smooth introduction to specialty flavors. Once you find yourself wanting “more coffee taste,” graduate to the Flat White.

Don’t hesitate to ask us questions when you order. We can help you pick the right bean and the right brew—even if you’re wrangling a excited Golden Retriever at the same time.