As someone with barista experience, I can say you are not alone when it comes to being confused in regards to coffee. Many of the drinks come out different than how you would expect, especially when you don't know all of the differences between the drinks. It can all be a little overwhelming and you may have found yourself just ordering what you heard the person in front of you order. Here is a quick list of different types of espresso drinks (not expresso), as well as a few coffee based ones to help you out.
A few things to note: Foam is just the bubbles that are created when milk is steamed. Any of these beverages can be enjoyed iced or blended. The only difference to the recipe would be cold milk instead of steamed. All of these recipes would follow the standard medium sized beverage.
1. Latte
A latte is your basic specialty coffee drink. It consists of two espresso shots and steamed milk, with foam on top.
2. Mocha
A mocha is a type of latte; it just has chocolate syrup in it and whipped cream. Same goes for a white mocha.
3. Americano
This drink is two espresso shots with water added to it.
4. Cappuccino
A cappuccino is similar to a latte except it has an extra espresso shot, less milk, and more foam. This makes it a little stronger and lighter than a latte.
5. Red-Eye
This drink not for the weak-hearted. It's one or two shots of espresso topped off with coffee.
6. Bulletproof
This recipe is a little more flexible. The basic recipe is one or two shots of espresso (or a just a mug of coffee instead), and some type of oil or fat; most commonly, butter or coconut oil.
7. Au Lait
French, meaning "with milk". Literally, just coffee with milk.
8. Macchiato
A macchiato is basically a latte, minus the milk. There's more foam instead.
9. Flat White
Two shots of espresso with milk.
10. Tea Latte
Most commonly known as a Chai Tea Latte or Green Tea Latte. A tea mixture with espresso and milk, topped off with foam.
11. Blended Coffee Beverages
Blended coffee usually does not contain straight espresso shots, but a sweet coffee or or vanilla based cream mixture. The base is mixed with any other flavorings you may have ordered and ice.
Congratulations, you are now a coffee expert. You may now confidently walk up to the coffee bar and order without fear of wasting your money on a drink you don't like. Now you can try adding into your drink, such as with syrups to sweeten your coffee or try any of the above beverages (not #11, of course) iced as well. There really is nothing better than enjoying a nice cup of caffeine in the morning or during a late night studying. Go forth and drink with confidence!
