Galão

Galão

Portugal

Portugal's tall, milky morning coffee. Three-quarters foamed milk, one-quarter espresso, served in a tall glass alongside a pastel de nata at any pastelaria. It's gentler than a latte because the ratio is more extreme: the coffee is there for flavor, not force. The glass lets you see the layers, and the foam should be light and airy, not dense microfoam. Order a 'meia de leite' if you want closer to half-half.

Brew Time25–30 seconds (espresso) + steaming
Temperature60–65°C for the milk
Ratio1 shot espresso + 200–250ml foamed milk (3:1 milk to coffee)
GrindFine — espresso grind

How to make it

  1. 1

    Pull a single shot of espresso.

  2. 2

    Steam milk to 60–65°C with airy, light foam — more volume than a latte's microfoam.

  3. 3

    Pour the espresso into a tall glass.

  4. 4

    Fill the glass with foamed milk — the ratio should be about 3:1 milk to coffee.

  5. 5

    Serve immediately alongside a pastel de nata. This is non-negotiable.