Espresso (short black)

A 30–40 ml double shot of espresso, served on its own in a demitasse cup or small glass. In Australia, "short black" and "espresso" are used interchangeably on most menus.

Why it matters — A short black is how the coffee tastes — naked, with nothing to hide behind. It's the truest reading of the bean, the roast, the grind, and the barista's work.

Good to know

• Australian short blacks are often pulled slightly longer and sweeter than Italian-reference espressos — closer to a 1:2 ratio with 28–32 second extraction.
• Always served on a saucer with a sugar bowl and a glass of water in proper cafés.