Australia’s coffee culture is one of the most diverse and refined in the world. From flat whites and long blacks to pour overs and cold brews, there’s a coffee drink for every taste and every occasion.
At ONA Coffee, we believe that understanding what’s in your cup helps you enjoy it even more. Whether you’re learning how to brew at home, exploring café favourites, or refining your coffee skills, here’s a guide to nine of the most popular types of coffee drinks in Australia — and how to make the most of each.
What defines a ‘coffee drink’?
Every coffee drink starts with the same foundation: roasted coffee beans and water, and sometimes milk. What makes each drink unique is the method of preparation — whether it’s brewed through pressure, immersion, or filtration, and the ratio of coffee to milk or water.
The result is a world of flavours, textures, and strengths to explore. Let’s break down some of the most loved styles:
Espresso-Based Coffee Drinks
1. Espresso
The espresso is the backbone of Australian coffee culture. Made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee at high pressure, it produces a concentrated shot with rich flavour and a golden crema.
An espresso forms the base for most café drinks — from lattes to cappuccinos — but it’s also enjoyed on its own by those who prefer an intense, full-bodied experience.
Learn more about our espresso collection, featuring coffees designed for balance, clarity, and sweetness under pressure.
2. Flat White
The flat white is perhaps the most iconic Australian coffee drink, and one that has been adopted and celebrated across the world. It combines either a single or double shot of espresso with lightly steamed milk, creating a smooth, velvety texture without the thick foam of a cappuccino.
It’s loved for its balance — enough milk to mellow the espresso’s intensity, but not enough to overpower its flavour. A well-made flat white highlights the coffee’s natural sweetness and body, especially with blends like Maple or Raspberry Candy.
3. Latte
Typically, a latte is slightly milkier than a flat white, with a softer texture and a creamy layer of microfoam on top. Traditionally served in Australia in a glass, it’s perfect for those who prefer a gentler flavour and silky mouthfeel.
Lattes are ideal for experimenting with different beans — from sweet, nutty espresso blends to fruity single origins. Try exploring the milk-based collection to find one that complements your favourite milk or alternative.
4. Cappuccino
Rich and textural, the cappuccino is a café staple that has its origins in Italy, and was brought to Australia by Italian immigrants. It blends espresso with steamed milk and a thick layer of foam - the foam acts as an insulator, keeping the coffee warm and giving each sip a luxurious mouthfeel.
In Australia, cappuccinos have traditionally been topped with a dusting of chocolate – although this is becoming less common, as more coffee companies embrace ‘traditional milk coffees’, a cappuccino without the chocolate.
For a traditional flavour profile that shines through milk and foam alike, try the Maple or Aspen blends – or, for something with more expression of fruit and opulence, try the Gateway or Raspberry Candy blends.
5. Long Black
Australians love a long black for its strength and simplicity. Made by pouring a double shot of espresso over hot water, it preserves the coffee’s crema while softening its intensity.
The long black differs from the American “americano,” which adds water after brewing — giving the long black a more layered flavour and aroma.
To enjoy this style at home, look for versatile beans from our espresso or filter collections, depending on how you like your coffee’s body and acidity.
Brewed Coffee Drinks
6. Pour Over
The pour over method has become a favourite among home brewers and specialty cafés. Using a paper filter, water is poured slowly over ground coffee, allowing precise control of flow rate and extraction. The result is a clean, bright cup that showcases the coffee’s origin and processing.
If you enjoy floral and fruity profiles, explore our filter coffee range, featuring single origins like Ethiopia and Kenya. You can also find convenient drip bags for café-quality pour overs anywhere.
7. Batch Brew
Batch brew, or automatic filter coffee, offers consistency and convenience. It’s brewed in larger volumes using a machine, making it perfect for cafés or offices. While it shares similarities with pour over, batch brew tends to produce a slightly fuller body and rounder sweetness.
It’s a great introduction to black coffee for those used to milk-based drinks — and an easy way to appreciate the nuance of lighter roasts.
8. Cold Brew
Cold brew coffee is steeped in cold water for 12–24 hours, resulting in a smooth, naturally sweet flavour with low acidity. It’s perfect for warm days and can be enjoyed black, over ice, or with milk.
This slow extraction highlights the coffee’s subtle chocolate or fruit notes, depending on the bean. It’s also ideal for experimenting with our drip bags — simply steep one overnight in the fridge for a refreshing brew.
9. Iced Latte
An iced latte is a simple, refreshing twist on a café classic. Made with espresso poured over milk and ice, it’s lighter than cold brew but still offers that balance of strength and creaminess.
You can make one easily at home by combining a shot of espresso (or a spoon of ONA Coffee’s Instant Coffee) with chilled milk and ice. It’s a great way to enjoy your favourite coffee blends through the warmer months.
Choosing the Right Coffee for You
The best type of coffee drink depends on how you like to experience flavour and texture.
- For balance and comfort: Try milk-based drinks like the flat white, latte, or cappuccino.
- For boldness and clarity: Go for espresso or long black.
- For lighter, complex flavours: Explore brewed options like pour over or batch brew.
- For something refreshing: Cold brew or iced latte are perfect for warm weather.
If you’re curious to learn more about preparing these styles, our Barista Courses can help you master the techniques behind extraction, milk texturing, and flavour development.
Exploring different coffee drinks
From the silky flat white to the crisp pour over, each coffee drink tells a story about balance, craft, and taste. Australia’s coffee culture celebrates that diversity — and at ONA Coffee, we’re proud to share the tools, beans, and knowledge to help you enjoy it all.
Whether you’re sipping at home, brewing in the office, or visiting your local café, there’s always more to discover in every cup.
Explore our full coffee collections — espresso, filter, and milk-based blends — and find your perfect coffee today.