Until just a year or two ago, ordering an iced latte was a staple choice for many cafe customers in the UAE; however, a new drink has now taken its place. The "Dirty Drink" or "Dirty" beverages have become one of the most popular items on cafe menus these days, and thanks to TikTok and Instagram, their popularity is growing every day.

Dirty espresso is made from a combination of hot espresso and cold milk (and sometimes matcha). The temperature difference, colorful layers, and distinct flavors make the first sip of this drink a different experience from regular coffee; a factor that has particularly attracted the younger generation.

Home cafes in Abu Dhabi and Dubai say that this drink was initially just one of the menu options, but soon customers came specifically to order the "Dirty". Even some cafes that had offered it in limited quantities had to add it to their permanent menu due to high demand.

Videos of pouring hot espresso over cold milk have also become some of the most popular content on social media. Cafe owners say many customers walk into the cafe showing those videos and want to try exactly that drink.

This demand has led cafes to offer more creative versions; from dirty drinks flavored with cinnamon and cookies to combinations inspired by Emirati culture like dates and saffron.

According to the owners of these businesses, while social media may have created the initial wave of popularity for this drink, its unique quality and flavor have made the "Dirty Drink" more than just a trend and a part of the new coffee culture in the UAE. Customers are now seeking a different taste experience instead of their usual lattes; an experience that seems unlikely to go out of style anytime soon.
Source: Gulf News