National Latte Day
Gather all coffee lovers as National Latte Day arrives on February 11 each year. It's a cozy tribute to the creamy, comforting latte- a frothy hug in a mug that turns a simple shot of espresso into a velvety delight, blending Italian tradition with modern coffee culture.
So what are you waiting for? Make this comforting drink at home or hop out for some latte at your favorite place!
What Is a Latte?
A latte, short for caffe latte, is a coffee drink made with one or more shots of espresso topped with steamed milk and a thin layer of foam.
Unlike a cappuccino, which has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and thick foam, a latte features more steamed milk for a milder, creamier taste served in a taller glass. The name comes from the Italian "caffe e latte," meaning "coffee and milk.
History of National Latte Day
National Latte Day started in 2019, created by Jefferson's Coffee, a New Jersey family business, to honor this beloved drink.
Lattes trace back to 17th-century Italy, where coffee mixed with hot milk softened espresso's bitterness for breakfast. The modern version emerged in 1950s California at Caffe Mediterraneum in Berkeley, gaining fame in 1980s-90s Seattle via Starbucks.
Celebrate This Day
- Hop between local spots for Latte flavor adventures. Did you know there are actually many many different flavors of latte like vanilla, hazelnut, caramel, orange, pumpkin spice, pepermint mocha and more?
- Grab a mug, milk frother, and practice designs from hearts to ferns (pour slow for white-on-brown contrast, then wiggle for leaves). Film your attempts, share fails and wins on Instagram with #NationalLatteDay, and tag local roasters for reposts or tips.
- Deliver surprise lattes via Uber Eats to coworkers or distant pals, or craft DIY gift cards for their fave shop.
Interesting Latte Facts
- In Italy, "latte" alone means plain milk so always say caffe latte to avoid confusion!
- Latte art kicked off in 1980s Italy (pioneered by Luigi Lupi), then Seattle's David Schomer added hearts and swans.
- The record latte? Over 3,170 gallons by South Korean baristas in 2018.
- The record iced latte measures 1,044.92 liters (276 gallons), made by Dunkin' and chef Nick DiGiovanni in 2024 with 3,200 espresso shots.
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