The debate has raged on...
for as long as I can remember, or at least the time I've been in specialty coffee. Which granted, isn't that long. But since I began my career I've heard, read, and contemplated all of the definitions for the differences between the beloved cappuccino, and the rising star, the flat white. As I took over a role of a trainer and menu development I had to come to a definition that I could teach baristas and customers alike. This definition should be short and sweet; like a shot of espresso.
So at my work the main difference between the two is the depth and density of the microfoam. A flat white should be in a six (sometimes eight) ounce cup and have a thin layer of foam, similar to that of a latte. A cappuccino is in a six (sometimes eight) ounce cup, but should have a layer of foam roughly half an inch thick. So hit play on the video above and see what I define as a flat white and a cappuccino.
Be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more video content.