The London Fog latte has become a staple on café menus around the world, offering a fragrant, sweet, and creamy alternative to coffee. Despite its name, the origins of this popular tea-based beverage are not rooted in the misty streets of London, but rather in the rainy Pacific Northwest. Our local cafe is here this month to take a look at how the London Fog latte came to be and how it gained a dedicated following.
The Birth of the London Fog Latte
The London Fog latte was reportedly created in the early 1990s in Vancouver, British Columbia. The story goes that a local woman, seeking a comforting alternative to her usual coffee, asked for a special combination of Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, and vanilla syrup at a café. This custom-made drink became an instant hit with the woman and soon with others who frequented the café.
Its light, aromatic flavor quickly grew in popularity, especially in the cold and damp weather of the Pacific Northwest, where a warm, soothing drink was always welcome.
Despite its modern-day global appeal, the name “London Fog” is believed to have been chosen for its association with the cool, foggy atmosphere often linked to London. The misty, comforting vibe of the city perfectly suited the mood of the drink.
Why Earl Grey?
At the heart of the London Fog is Earl Grey tea, a black tea infused with the essential oil of bergamot, a citrus fruit. Earl Grey’s light citrus flavor and fragrant aroma give the London Fog its distinctive taste, balancing the richness of the steamed milk and sweetness of the vanilla syrup. This combination provides the drink with an elegant, slightly floral undertone that sets it apart from typical coffee-based lattes.
A Rising Star
The London Fog latte has since evolved from its original Vancouver café to become a café staple worldwide. While its popularity initially spread across North America, particularly in regions with cooler climates, it has now become a favorite among tea lovers everywhere. The drink is also highly customizable, with many modern variations including the addition of lavender syrup or the use of plant-based milks like almond and oat.
Bagel Mill | Local Cafe in Peterborough
Whether you’re stopping in for a beverage or a bagel sandwich, the possibilities are endless here at our local cafe! To explore our options, check out our online menu or stop in for a bite to eat today!