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Kopi: A Guide to Southeast Asian Coffee

In Singapore and Malaysia, kopi is part of everyday coffee shop culture. The precise drink can depend on where and how you order.

Learn kopi ordering basics and the differences between kopi, kopi-o, and kopi-c.

Kopi

Commonly coffee with condensed milk, though conventions vary.

Kopi-o

Usually black coffee with sugar; additional words can alter sweetness.

Kopi-c

Often coffee with evaporated milk and sugar.

Ordering with confidence

Ask the shop how they prepare a drink if you have milk or sugar preferences.