Understanding “White Coffee” in Slovenia: A Guide for Visitors

The terminology in the coffee industry can vary significantly depending on geographical context and local customs, often leading to confusion, especially for travelers. 

In different countries and regions, coffee drinks may be called differently depending on how they are prepared and what ingredients are used.

If you are visiting Slovenia, this can be particularly confusing when you see “white coffee” or “bela kava” on a menu. 

In this guide, we will explain what “white coffee” means in Slovenia, how it differs from other countries, and what to expect when ordering it—so you can avoid surprises and enjoy your coffee experience.

“Bela Kava” in Slovenia

First, let’s understand what constitutes “white coffee” in the Slovenian context. For visitors, the easiest way to think about it is this: If you order “white coffee” in Slovenia, you will most likely get a latte, or some variation of it.

This drink consists of coffee and hot milk, usually prepared with a ratio of one part espresso to about 3-3.5 parts steamed and foamed milk. If you like lattes or cappuccinos, ordering Bela Kava is a safe and familiar choice in Slovenia.

Latte in Italy: why tourists get confused

In other parts of the world, including Italy, you may hear the term “Caffè Latte.” Adding to the confusion is that in Italy, latte literally means milk. Tourists visiting Italy for the first time sometimes order a “latte” and receive a glass of plain milk instead of coffee.

Although the Italian version and Slovenian Bela Kava share the same idea, a mixture of coffee and milk, the naming can be misleading. In Slovenia, “white coffee” already implies coffee with a healthy portion of milk, whereas in Italy, you must say caffè latte to get coffee.

White coffee: from Malaysia to the United States

Different countries have their own interpretations of “white coffee,” and this is where confusion increases for visitors. In Malaysia, white coffee is made using beans roasted with palm oil margarine, giving it a unique flavor and texture.  In the United States, “white coffee” can refer to very lightly roasted beans, which appear yellowish rather than brown.

When traveling, we recommend researching the coffee culture of the place you are visiting. For guides and pointers about Slovenia, look no further, as we have already gathered the best guides and recommendations. 

Debunking the myth of “strong” white coffee

Now that we’ve clarified the meanings, let’s address a common question: Is white coffee stronger? Lightly roasted beans may retain slightly more caffeine than dark roasts. However, the difference is small – often around 5%.

Note that retained caffeine in beans still needs to be extracted. With most recipes used by both home baristas and professionals, the amount of caffeine extracted from light roasted compared to medium roasts is insignificant.

In Slovenia, since “white coffee” usually refers to a milk-based drink, it will actually feel less strong because the milk softens both the flavor and the caffeine effect.

Health considerations: milk and comfort

White coffee is often associated with certain benefits:

• Milk can reduce acidity and make coffee easier on the stomach.
• The drink is smoother and less bitter.

However, these benefits are subtle and should be seen as a bonus rather than a main reason to choose this drink. For many visitors, the real advantage is simple: it’s a comfortable, mild coffee option that’s easy to enjoy.

Conclusion: what tourists should remember

So, when it comes to white coffee in Slovenia, the key aspect is that in most places it is a sister-drink to (caffé) latte. So feel free to order white coffee while traveling in Slovenia – just sit back, enjoy the creamy texture, and explore the local coffee culture without confusion.