Tomoca Coffee Bankers club — Restaurant in Addis Ababa

The macchiato, in its truest form, embodies the artistry of espresso. Its beauty lies in its simplicity and the elegant balance it achieves: an espresso "marked" or "stained" (as "macchiato" translates from Italian) with a mere dollop of milk foam. This is not a milky latte or a frothy cappuccino; it’s a bold, espresso-forward experience, enlivened by a whisper of dairy.

A truly exceptional macchiato begins with a perfectly pulled shot of espresso. This is paramount. The espresso should possess a rich, complex aroma, a robust flavor with notes of chocolate, nuts, or caramel, and a stunning, reddish-brown crema on top. Any bitterness or sourness will resonate more strongly in a macchiato.

The milk component, while minimal, is equally essential. Expertly steamed to create a velvety, glossy microfoam, it should incorporate just enough air to achieve delicate foam that melds seamlessly with the espresso. The milk must not be overly hot, as this can scald it and mask its natural sweetness.

When the milk is added, typically just a spoon or two of foam, it is carefully placed atop the espresso. This "mark" defines the drink. The ideal macchiato showcases a visual contrast: the dark, rich espresso at the bottom, graced by a small, white cloud of foam.

The first sip of a well-made macchiato is nothing short of a revelation. The bold intensity of the espresso captures the palate, yet almost immediately, the creamy sweetness of the milk cuts through, softening the edges without diminishing the coffee's essence. This beautiful interplay between the bitterness of the coffee and the subtle sweetness of the milk creates a harmonious and invigorating experience. It is a drink that awakens the senses, delivering a concentrated burst of coffee flavor with a refined finish.

The macchiato stands apart for the purist, the one who truly cherishes the nuanced flavors of a quality espresso. It is a far cry from the larger, milk-heavy creations that often masquerade as "macchiato" in some chain coffee shops. A true macchiato is served in a small demitasse cup, designed to be savored in a few sips, offering a potent yet balanced coffee moment. It serves as the perfect bridge between a straight espresso and a milkier drink, providing just enough milk to soften the espresso's intensity while ensuring its inherent qualities shine through. It is an afternoon pick-me-up that leaves you feeling invigorated, yet not overly full, and it promises a lasting impression of sophisticated coffee...

The overall experience is great. Great coffee and a quiet place. Note: it's a self service and it has no...