Milk and extras
- Full cream, skim, soy, oat, almond: list what you stock
- “Extra shot” = one more shot of espresso
- “Decaf” = coffee with almost no caffeine
- “Takeaway” = to take with you; “dine in” = to eat here
Café owner toolkit
Write a menu your newest customers can read.
Many international students know “coffee” but not “flat white”, “long black” or “big brekkie”. A menu that explains itself in one short line means fewer awkward moments and more first-time orders.
Six rules for a plain-English menu
- Name it, then explain it. Keep the café name, add a few plain words: “Flat white: espresso with smooth, steamed milk.”
- One idea per line. Short sentences. Put the size or price at the end.
- Use the ingredient words customers know. “Egg, avocado, toast” first; the nickname second.
- Say what is in it. Milk, nuts, egg, gluten and seafood are the words customers scan for.
- Be honest and consistent. Describe what your café really serves; the same drink can differ between cafés.
- Show how to order. “Order and pay at the counter” saves a lot of guessing.
Before and after: drinks and food
Adapt each “after” so it matches what your café actually makes.
| On many menus | Plainer version you can adapt |
|---|---|
| Flat white | Flat white – espresso with smooth, steamed milk. Small cup. |
| Long black | Long black – espresso poured over hot water. No milk. |
| Short black | Short black – one small, strong espresso. No milk. |
| Macchiato | Macchiato – espresso with a small spot of milk foam. |
| Cappuccino | Cappuccino – espresso, steamed milk and thick foam on top. |
| Latte | Latte – espresso with lots of steamed milk. Served in a glass. |
| Babyccino | Babyccino – warm frothed milk for kids. No coffee. |
| Big brekkie | Big brekkie (big breakfast) – eggs, toast, bacon and sides. Ask us about swaps. |
| Smashed avo | Smashed avo – mashed avocado on toast. Add egg for $X. |
| Toastie | Toastie – toasted sandwich, hot and melted inside. |
Customers who want to learn the names can read [[how to read an Australian café menu|/resources/australian-coffee-culture/how-to-read-australian-cafe-menu.html]] and the [[A–Z café English glossary|/resources/australian-coffee-culture/australian-cafe-english-glossary-a-to-z.html]]. Link to them from your menu QR code if you like.
Allergen line: keep it simple and checkable
Allergy words must be exact. Do not guess; confirm with your supplier information and local rules.
- Add a short line under dishes: “Contains: egg, gluten, milk.”
- Add one sign near the counter: “Tell us about any food allergy before you order.”
- Train staff on one calm script and one escalation step. See food allergy conversations in Australian cafés and dietary English for cafés.
If your drink names differ
Some cafés call the same drink by a different name. A small note avoids confusion: “Our flat white is the same as a small latte.” Share why coffee names differ between cafés with new staff.
Want a menu check you can print? Pair this page with Café signs in plain English.
These are language tips, not legal or financial advice. For food labelling, allergen rules, surcharges, signage and trading rules, check FSANZ, your local council or state food authority, and the ACCC. Rules differ by state.