What Is a Magic Coffee and How Do You Make It?

If you’ve spent any time exploring Melbourne’s iconic coffee scene, chances are you’ve heard someone order a “Magic.”

Unfortunately, it’s not a fancy latte with sparkles or a secret menu item at a wizard-themed café. Fortunately, it is a uniquely Australian espresso drink that has won the hearts of many coffee lovers.

But what exactly is a Magic coffee, and how can you make one at home?

So… What Is a Magic Coffee?

A Magic is a Melbourne-born coffee drink made with a double ristretto (a more concentrated espresso shot) and steamed milk, served in a 5 oz (about 150 ml) cup.

The idea is to create a perfectly balanced drink that’s stronger than a flat white but smoother than a regular double shot.

In coffee terms:

• A ristretto is a shorter, more intense version of espresso.
• The milk is silky and lightly textured—somewhere between a latte and a cappuccino.
• The ratio of coffee to milk is tighter than in most espresso-based drinks, giving it a bold flavor with a creamy finish.

It’s often referred to as “the barista’s drink” because it’s what many Melbourne baristas order for themselves when they want a quick, no-nonsense coffee with maximum flavour.

Why Is It Called a “Magic”?

Good question. There’s no official story behind the name, but many say it’s because the balance of bold ristretto and smooth milk feels… well, kind of magical. It’s rich, strong, and silky all at once—like your favourite flat white, just more intense and compact.

How to Make a Magic Coffee at Home

Thankfully, you don’t need to book a flight to Melbourne to try a Magic. Here’s how to make it in your own kitchen:

What You’ll Need:

• Espresso machine (with a steam wand)
• Fresh coffee beans (medium or dark roast works best)
• Milk (full cream is traditional, but oat or soy work too)
• 150 ml (5 oz) cup or glass

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Grind & Prepare the Coffee
   Use about 16–18g of coffee grounds and pull a double ristretto shot. This means stopping the shot earlier than a full espresso—usually around 20–25ml per shot (total of 40–50ml for a double). The goal is to extract the most flavourful part of the coffee without over-extracting.
2. Steam the Milk
   Steam about 100–120ml of milk until it’s velvety and slightly textured—not too frothy. Aim for a temperature around 55–65°C (130–150°F). You want that smooth, glossy microfoam.
3. Pour & Serve
   Pour the steamed milk gently over the ristretto, trying to preserve the crema if you can. It should all fit snugly in a 5 oz cup, with a balanced milk-to-coffee ratio.
4. Enjoy Immediately
   Magic is meant to be enjoyed right away, while it’s hot, aromatic, and perfectly blended.

What Makes Magic Different From a Flat White or Latte?

• Flat White: Made with a full espresso shot and more milk; it’s milder in comparison.
• Latte: Has even more milk and is served in a larger cup—usually 8–12 oz.
• Magic: Uses ristretto shots, less milk, and is served in a small 5 oz cup—stronger, creamier, and more concentrated.