The Flat White is a coffee drink that has become a global phenomenon, though its exact origin is a point of contention between Australia and New Zealand. Both countries claim to have invented it in the 1980s as an alternative to the frothy cappuccino. A Flat White consists of a double shot of espresso topped with 'microfoam'—milk that has been steamed to create tiny, velvety bubbles rather than the thick, dry foam found on a cappuccino. The key is the 'stretch' of the milk, which should be integrated throughout the drink to create a smooth, creamy texture. This allows the flavor of the espresso to remain prominent. It was popularized globally in the 2010s when major coffee chains like Starbucks added it to their menus.