Australia is renowned for its thriving coffee culture, and with that comes a unique and often amusing set of slang terms that locals use when ordering their favourite brew. If you’re new to the Aussie coffee scene, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Here’s a fun guide to some of the most common coffee-related slang you’ll encounter in an Australian café.
1. Flatty – Short for Flat White
The beloved Flat White, an Aussie staple, gets a casual nickname. If you hear someone ordering a “flatty,” they’re asking for a smooth espresso-based coffee with steamed milk and minimal foam. Served in a coffee cup 200ml-220ml. We recommend the Premier Tazze Italian Range Cup.
2. Long Black – The Australian Americano
A Long Black is made by pouring a double shot of espresso over hot water, creating a strong and aromatic coffee. Unlike an Americano, where water is added to espresso, the Long Black retains a richer crema. Served in a 200ml-220ml Cup. We recommend the Premier Tazze Specialty Range Cup.
3. Short Black – Simply an Espresso
A no-nonsense term for a standard shot of espresso. Perfect for those who like their coffee strong and straight to the point. Served in a 80ml-90ml espresso cup. We recommend the Premier Tazze Espresso Cups.
4. Magic – The Specialty Aussie Brew
This Melbourne-born favourite consists of a double ristretto topped with silky milk, creating a stronger and smoother alternative to a traditional Flat White. Served in a 160ml cup. We recommend the Premier Tazze Specialty Range Cup
5. Piccolo – The Mini Latte
A small but mighty coffee, the Piccolo is essentially a single shot of espresso with a small amount of steamed milk, served in a demitasse glass. Served in a 90ml glass. We recommend the Duralex glasses.
6. Chai Latte – The Coffee Alternative
While not technically a coffee, this spiced tea beverage is a popular choice in Australian cafés. Some people call it simply Chai. Served in a 200ml-220ml Cup or Glass. We recommend the Duralex Glasses.
7. Mugaccino – A Cappuccino in a Mug
If you love cappuccinos but want a bigger serving, ask for a Mugaccino. It’s a cappuccino served in a larger mug rather than a standard cup. Served in a 330ml-350ml Mug. We recommend the Premier Tazze Mugs.
8. Soy Cap – A Soy Milk Cappuccino
A cappuccino made with soy milk instead of regular dairy. With the rise of alternative milks in Australia, you might also hear “Almond Cap” or “Oat Flatty.” Served in a coffee cup 200ml-220ml. We recommend the Premier Tazze Italian Range Cup.
9. Batchy – Short for Batch Brew
A term used for batch-brewed filter coffee, typically served black. It’s a popular choice among specialty coffee lovers who enjoy a lighter, more nuanced brew.
10. Dirty Chai – A Chai Latte with a Shot of Espresso
A Dirty Chai combines the best of both worlds—spiced chai and espresso—giving you a unique, energizing drink with a hint of sweetness and spice. Served in a 200ml-220ml Cup or Glass. We recommend the Duralex Glasses.
Ordering Like a Local
Now that you’re familiar with Aussie coffee slang, you can confidently step into any café and order like a true local. Whether you’re after a Flatty, a Batchy, or even a Magic, you’ll impress your barista and blend right into Australia’s vibrant coffee culture.
So next time you're in an Australian café, give the lingo a go—you might just discover your new favourite coffee!
