India should dream big for robust traditional concoction

The term ‘flat white’ brings to mind paint, plates — or perhaps a large oceanic fish — depending on personal proclivities. However, it is the unprepossessing name of a new kid on the barista counter that is edging out the coyly frothy cappuccino that has dominated hearts and palates from Seattle to Seoul for at least three decades. This supposedly Antipodean hipster invention must pack quite a punch if it has led to the frothy Italian breakfast cuppa going MIA at key US locations. And if flat whites are indeed also steaming up major cities around the world already, it is obviously time for India’s famed decoction coffee to contemplate an ambitious international foray. After all, the flat white’s composition of ristretto, or double espresso shots, topped up with plain fullfat milk and optional sugar sounds suspiciously like our south Indian kaapi.

India has come a long way since the time when the word espresso had cappuccinoic connotations for many people. Now there is no reason for India not to dream big for our own robust(a) traditional concoction, complete with stainless steel glass and bowl. More so, considering the latest coffee counter revolution has reportedly been brewing in the very areas that also have a significant Indian presence: information technology and financial hubs.