The Galão is Portugal’s answer to the latte, offering a light, milky coffee experience that is smooth, delicate, and comforting. Traditionally served in a tall glass, this drink is made with one part espresso and three parts steamed milk, making it milder and milkier than a latte or cappuccino.
Often enjoyed at breakfast or as an afternoon pick-me-up, the Galão is a staple in Portuguese cafés and embodies the country’s laid-back coffee culture, where coffee is meant to be sipped slowly and savored.
What Makes a Galão Different?
🔹 More Milk, Less Espresso – Unlike a cappuccino (1:1:1 ratio) or a latte (1:3 ratio), a Galão leans more toward 1:4 coffee-to-milk ratio, making it the creamiest option among similar drinks.
🔹 Served in a Tall Glass – While a cappuccino is served in a small cup and a latte in a mug, a Galão is always served in a tall, heat-resistant glass, showcasing its light, frothy texture.
🔹 A Softer, More Mellow Coffee Experience – With its high milk content, a Galão is one of the mildest espresso-based drinks, making it perfect for those who enjoy gentle, comforting flavors.
How to Make a Galão
☕ Ingredients
- 2 tbsp (10g) finely ground coffee
- 6 oz (180ml) cold, filtered water (for brewing espresso)
- 8–12 oz (240–360ml) steamed milk
🌡 Temperature Guide
- Brew water: 195–205°F (90–96°C)
- Milk steaming: 140–160°F (60–70°C)
Step-by-Step Brewing Guide
1️⃣ Brew a Single or Double Shot of Espresso
- Use an espresso machine to extract 1–2 oz (30–60ml) of espresso, depending on preference.
2️⃣ Steam the Milk
- Heat 8–12 oz (240–360ml) of milk until it becomes smooth and frothy, with a light, airy texture.
3️⃣ Breathe It In
- ☕ Breathe it in. The scent of fresh coffee and warm milk is an invitation to awaken—not just the body, but the soul. That’s why we encourage you to take that extra second or two to pause and enjoy your coffee before drinking by smelling it and thinking, “Taste and see that the Lord is good.”
4️⃣ Pour the Milk Over the Espresso
- Slowly pour the steamed milk over the espresso, allowing it to blend into a light and foamy consistency.
5️⃣ Serve in a Tall Glass & Enjoy
- A Galão is always served in a tall, clear glass, allowing you to appreciate its light, frothy texture and golden espresso layer.
Galão vs. Other Espresso Drinks
✔ Galão vs. Latte: A latte has less milk and more espresso, while a Galão is lighter and milkier with a higher milk-to-coffee ratio.
✔ Galão vs. Cappuccino: A cappuccino has equal parts milk, espresso, and foam, while a Galão is mostly steamed milk with just a little espresso.
✔ Galão vs. Café au Lait: A café au lait is made with brewed coffee and steamed milk, while a Galão uses espresso and steamed milk, giving it a smoother texture.
Why Choose a Galão?
- For Those Who Prefer a Gentle, Mellow Coffee – The Galão is creamy, smooth, and easy to drink, perfect for those who enjoy mild coffee flavors.
- A Traditional Portuguese Coffee Experience – If you want to experience coffee culture in Portugal, the Galão is a must-try classic.
- Perfect for Slow Mornings & Cozy Afternoons – The Galão is soothing and light, making it a great companion for quiet, reflective moments.
☕ Next Up: Iced Coffee – A Refreshing Take on a Classic Brew
