The secret menu...

There are some drinks that are common among coffee shops, but don't always get posted on the menu. We're going to spotlight some of those, and give you some ideas of what you can do to make a drink your own.

Shot in the dark or Red-eye: Both of these are names for the same drink, a cup of coffee with a shot (or more) of espresso. This will really give you a caffeine boost. This is also sometimes called a Hammerhead.

Macchiato: Despites what the competition has done to this word, hardcore coffee fans know that the drink is really a shot of espresso with a dollop of frothy milk or cream.

Cafe Au Lait: For this drink we take half a cupful of brewed coffee and top it off with steamed milk. It is also known as a Misto.

Why Bother: A clever name for a non-fat decaf latte. It can also be adapted to flavored drinks - for example, a Vanilla Why Bother would have sugar-free vanilla syrup.

Affogatto: Technically, this is a hot espresso shot poured over ice cream, but in our case we'll pour that hot shot onto a freeze and call it good. Real good.

Breve: Instead of milk, we use steamed half and half to make a latte.

Tea Latte: Instead of hot water to brew your tea, try using steamed milk instead.

London Fog: A variation of the tea latte, this drink is made with steamed Chai and Earl Grey tea.

Of course this is only a short list of some options. Espresso is an ingredient that begs for creativity, and we enjoy helping you express yours.