Macchiato

Original Italian macchiato is a coffee variety that is made by pulling a shot of espresso and topping it with only one or two teaspoons of steamed milk. The milk is only added to enhance the flavor of coffee, and should never be overpowering.

The word translates as spotted or stained—referring to the small amount of milk that is meant only to stain the espresso. Unlike cappuccino that is mostly enjoyed in the morning, caffè macchiato was invented as an alternative to regular espresso, and Italians mainly enjoy it as an afternoon drink.

The drink should not be confused with latte macchiato—a beverage that is made with the opposite ratio of coffee and milk.