Ordering a cup of coffee in today's coffee houses and restaurants can be a confusing undertaking. Here's a guide to your choices. (Hint: most specialty coffee drinks are based on espresso -- a rich, flavorful brew.)

• Cappuccino: Espresso topped with equal parts foamed and steamed milk.

• Cafe Americano: American drip coffee--Italian style. Made from equal portions of espresso and boiling water. This results in a stronger version of brewed coffee.

• Cafe au lait: This traditionally French drink is made with equal parts of brewed coffee and steamed milk.

• Cafe breve: This is a milk-based espresso where half-and-half is used instead of milk.

• Cafe con leche: 1.5 ounces of espresso with steamed milk to fill an eight-ounce cup.

• Cafe con panna: Espresso topped with whipped cream.

• Cafe corretto: Espresso with a shot of brandy, cognac, or liqueur.

• Cafe creme: 1.5 ounces of espresso combined with one ounce of heavy cream.

• Cafe doppio: A double shot of espresso with one shot of hot water.