We’ve all marvelled at those intricate designs baristas weave into the froth on the top of our lattes.
It’s likely that latte art emerged simultaneously in different countries, however it is generally agreed that it shares roots with the espresso in Italy.
Its real boom in popularity came from Seattle, thanks to David Schomer and his coffee shop Espresso Vivace. In the late 1980s, Schomer started experimenting with different shapes and by 1989, he had perfected the heart-shaped rosetta pattern, based on a picture he saw from an Italian café called Caffe Mateki.
After honing his techniques, he opened a course called ‘Caffe Latte Art’ and the concept quickly spread through Seattle, the rest of the US and the world.
Today latte art has become a marker of an experienced and skilled barista and is appreciated by coffee lovers as a more personalised touch to their café visit.
Healthy and fusion brunch fare awaits Camberwell foodies at Santucci’s on Toorak Road. This locally-loved elegant but comfy Italian café exudes charm with dark-wood furniture and grey walls hung with eclectic art; while the sunny brick laneway strung with potted greenery is the ideal place to catch up with family and friends over a brew.
Don’t be surprised to find a face peering back at you from the top of your latte, as you tuck into sweet potato and corn fritters, with poached eggs, snow pea tendrils salad, medley tomato, herb mushroom, housemade dukkah and basil Romesco sauce.
For a delicious healthy pick-me-up in Melbourne's bayside suburbs, head down to Red Moose Smoothies & Wraps on Waltham Street. A vibrant Canada-themed fit-out surrounds this Sandringham outlet to create a fun and funky environment – think wood furnishings, canoes dangling from the ceiling and a photographic mural of picturesque Mount Rundle hanging proudly on the wall.
There’s even a Canadian moose adorning the top of your coffee…ideally enjoyed with a King Edward wrap of roast beef, caramelised onion relish, rocket and tasty cheese, or souvlaki lamb, spinach, tzatziki, feta and tomato.
Those looking for the Gold Coast’s best fish and chips with a view head along Seaworld Drive in Main Beach to find Seaway Kiosk & Jetty. You can’t get much more waterfront than this iconic dining destination at The Spit, with a large deck overlooking the foreshore; while indoors, galley-style window seating and bistro tables combine with a mix of nautical blue to bring the ocean to the plate.
Your coffee gets into the spirit of the café with a fish swimming its way across the cup, or find a hungry pussycat on the prowl; all best sipped while netting a plate of crab tacos, with house slaw, lemon and Chef’s mayo, or a slice of meat lovers’ pizza, with ham, bacon, pepperoni and BBQ sauce.
Those looking for a cosy corner café to hang out with a coffee in Holt head to Bunny Beans Café on Hardwick Crescent. Named after owner Bernard’s nickname, this café exudes rustic charm from recycled timber, exposed brick and dark wood table settings; while on balmy Canberra days, take to the alfresco area with your fur baby to people watch.
A cup of coffee on a chilly day can warm your soul, especially with the added love and dedication of latte art like seahorses and unicorns; sweet tooths enjoy theirs with a croffle, caramelised banana, berries, ice cream, honey and almond.
For more cafés near you to check out amazing latte art, click here.
