What is a Piccolo Coffee?

A piccolo coffee is a small, milk-based drink that originated in Australia. 

It includes a single shot of ristretto and is topped with steamed milk. You can expect a strong, concentrated flavour, supported by a creamy texture. Think of it as a smaller but stronger version of a latte. 

Here’s what you need to know. 

What Does “Piccolo” Mean in Coffee?

The word piccolo means “small” in Italian and was designed to highlight the coffee flavour in a palatable way. 

A piccolo is traditionally made using a ristretto shot, which has a shorter extraction than a standard espresso. This creates a sweeter, more concentrated taste with a thicker, syrup-like texture.

Origin of a Piccolo Coffee Drink 

In the early 2000s, Australian baristas created the piccolo as a way to taste new coffee roasts without drinking a large, milk-heavy drink.

This smaller coffee allowed them to enjoy flavour and a caffeine boost without the volume. Piccolos quickly became popular across Australia before spreading to major cities like London and New York. 

How to Make a Piccolo Coffee?

Coffee Base 

A ristretto shot (short, concentrated version of espresso) is prepared, usually in a single shot.

Milk 

Milk is steamed to create a thin, silky foam to add a touch of creaminess without overpowering the coffee. 

Cup 

Traditionally served in a small glass, a piccolo coffee is usually between 90ml and 120ml.

Flavour Profile 

A piccolo coffee is:

• Stronger than a latte 

• Less milky than a flat white 

• Smoother than a straight espresso 

• More balanced than a macchiato 

Will a Piccolo Be Your Next ‘Usual’?

Does a piccolo sound like something you could enjoy on a Sunday morning or on your daily commute?

Visit your closest Crosby Coffee location and try your new favourite drink today. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is a piccolo just a small latte?

No, a piccolo coffee is made with a shot of ristretto rather than standard espresso, and has a higher coffee-to-milk ratio than a latte. 

Can I order a piccolo coffee at any cafe?

Specialist coffee shops (like Crosby Coffee) tend to be the go-to for a piccolo. If it’s not on the menu, you can ask for a short latte or ristretto with milk. 

Is a piccolo stronger than a flat white?

Yes. As a piccolo includes less milk, it tastes stronger than a flat white, which has a higher volume of milk. 

What size is a piccolo coffee?

A piccolo coffee is usually served in a cup or glass between 90ml and 120ml. 

What is the difference between a piccolo and a cortado?

A piccolo is a mini latte with a stronger kick, while a cortado is a balanced espresso-milk drink. Both are perfect for those who enjoy small, flavorful coffees.

A piccolo is usually 90-120ml, made with a ristretto shot (a shorter, more concentrated espresso) topped with a small amount of steamed milk. This creates a strong, creamy flavour with the espresso more pronounced than in a latte.

A cortado is slightly larger, around 120-150ml, made with a standard espresso shot and an equal amount of warm milk. The 1:1 milk-to-coffee ratio produces a balanced, smooth taste, with the milk softening the espresso’s acidity.