Starbucks capuccino - how to get the best for less

This may not be hot off the press, but it was news to me, so I'm passing it on to all my fellow caffeine freaks out there...

Here's the coffee science bit: the best cappuccinos can only be made in small sizes because it is impossible to froth large quantities of milk properly. To get the best quality cappuccino, you need to make it small.

Starbucks know their coffee - and their business. Small is not something they really want to do. They want us to buy larger drinks, so they do not list all the drinks they'll sell you on their menu.

If you ask your local barista for a "Short Cappuccino", they'll know what you mean and make you the better tasting 8oz. coffee, with properly frothed milk - and charge you a bit less into the bargain.

Go on - I dare you to ask! (I would, but I like my coffee too much to put milk in it...).

Check out Tim Harford's full article on Slate.com