July 2023 | Default Milk at The Café
I would like to discuss purely about “milk” when ordering coffee at different café around the world(that I have gone to, of course). Seriously though, what is considered normal in one place may not be the same in others.
Let’s explore the “default” milk choices when ordering coffee and the common alternatives offered at cafes. In Asia, the EU, and the Pacific, most places I visit offer whole milk as the default. Unlike the US, where the default is often 2% or skim milk. I always find myself having to precisely request my preferred milk option– Whole-milk/full-cream/full-fat/etc. each time I order coffee, and unfortunately, not every store offers it. Even some of the larger chains.
For those with lactose sensitivity or those seeking plant-based options, alternatives are becoming more common in Asia, with many places offering oats and soy milk. I would say soy is common because it is cheaper in Asia. Similarly, in Australia, almond milk is a popular choice, often followed by oats.
It seems people are becoming more selective or perhaps more creative in their preferences.
BUT, to my preference when ordering “Caffè Latte”,
“Can I have REGULAR-WHOLE-MILK-Latte-Hot! Please :)”