Aug 27 2026
RestaurantsVII Asian BistroCafé Den Recipe

Café Den Recipe

Inspired by VII Asian Bistro
Time8m
Serves1

Iced or hot French espresso.

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Ingredients

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Espresso

Iced version - additional

Hot version - additional

Method

Espresso

  1. 1

    Dose and tamp

    Weigh 18 g of freshly roasted, finely ground coffee. Distribute the grounds evenly in a 58 mm (or appropriate portafilter) basket and tamp with moderate pressure so the puck surface is level and compact.

  2. 2

    Brew

    Lock the portafilter into a preheated espresso machine. Brew a double shot of espresso aiming for about 36 ml in 25–30 seconds. Watch for a steady, honey-like flow and a rich golden crema.

Sweetener & Milk (optional)

  1. 3

    If you want the Café Den sweetened, add 15 ml simple syrup (or to taste) to the cup/glass before brewing or immediately after brewing so the syrup incorporates easily. If using milk/cream, measure 60 ml and have it ready to add or steam (for hot version).

Iced version - assembly

  1. 4

    Fill a serving glass with 1 cup of ice. If making an iced Americano-style Café Den, add 30 ml cold water to the glass first. Pour the freshly brewed espresso directly over the ice (and water). Stir quickly to chill and dilute slightly. Add sweetener and milk if desired, stir again, and serve with a straw.

Hot version - assembly

  1. 5

    For a hot Café Den, pour the brewed espresso into a preheated cup. Add 60 ml steamed milk for a creamier drink or 60 ml hot water to make an Americano-style drink. Stir in sweetener if desired and serve immediately.

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