You’re a coffee newbie, the daunting Starbucks menu staring you down. What should you order? What is an Americano? How do you pronounce the word “macchiato?” With as much confidence as you can muster, you order the first recognizable thing on the menu. It’s a safe choice, but eventually, you want to venture out of your coffee comfort zone. Here is what you need to know:

Macchiatopronounced Mah-key-ah-toe (Usually with Caramel)

A uniquely layered beverage, served hot or iced. Generally, it is made with milk and topped with espresso and a caramel drizzle. Closely related to the latte. When Iced, it’s marbled layers create a perfect centerpiece for an artsy coffee shop picture, sure to rack up the likes and retweets.

Americano

Appropriately named, it is a drink that fuels the American spirit. High in Caffeine, this drink is just espresso and water and is slightly more bitter than coffee. Served hot or iced.

Latte

In it’s simplest form, it is just espresso and milk, also served hot or iced. Known for the signature, sometimes elaborate, foam art work on top.

Cappuccino

Espresso and a thick layer of foam. Usually served hot. Not overly bitter, but not sweet either. Basically, a latte on steroids.

London Fog

Brewed Earl Grey tea and milk for a pleasantly sweet drink, usually served hot. Not usually listed on the menu, it is sure to impress even your hipster friends.

Cold Brew

A way of brewing coffee that uses cold or room temperature water and 12-24 hours of patience. The result is a less bitter, more rounded out coffee flavor, well worth the wait.

“Make it Dirty”

An expression used to tell your barista you want a shot of espresso in your beverage. Also, a way to make everyone around you super uncomfortable.

Fun Facts:

For a small charge, you can add any syrup to most drinks. Most places also have sugar free syrups, just be sure to ask. When added to coffee, it is an expensive way to get a little more flavor in your average cup of joe.

Most places will use whole milk to make your beverage unless otherwise specified. Try nonfat, coconut or soy milk if you’re looking for healthier options. I prefer soymilk for an added subtle sweetness.

Espresso and traditional coffee are both made with coffee beans, the only difference being the brewing process.

If you still find yourself lost, here are some of my favorite coffee creations:

Iced Vanilla Latte

Raspberry (White or regular chocolate) Mocha

Dirty Chai Tea Latte

Peanut Butter Mocha

Latte with Cinnamon sprinkled on top

Double Shot Espresso with a pump of vanilla and whipped cream on top

Green Tea Latte (Not all shops serve this, it is made with Matcha powder and foamed milk. Very creamy with an "earthy" undertone.)

Happy Sipping!