In a creative twist on a cafe classic, a popular Ottawa dessert spot is serving up lattes that contain no coffee at all. Sharpfle Waffle, with two locations in the city, has introduced four new winter-themed beverages that borrow their flavours from traditional Korean winter desserts and drinks, offering a novel experience for patrons.
Redefining the Latte
While a traditional latte is built on a foundation of espresso and steamed milk, the owners of Sharpfle Waffle have taken a different path. Co-owner James Choi acknowledges the playful contradiction. "We're calling it a milk-based drink. 'Latte' is alright," he said with a laugh when asked about the espresso-free creations. The new menu items, launched in December 2025, are designed to be delicious and intriguing above all else.
A Tour of the Innovative Menu
The four new drinks each tell a unique story rooted in Korean culinary tradition. The Korean Chai Latte ($8) is a simple yet comforting blend of cinnamon, ginger, dates, and oat milk, inspired by a classic Korean winter dessert drink.
Perhaps the most unique offering is the Rice Latte ($9). This layered drink features a base of rice purée, oat milk, hojicha whipped cream, and is finished with roasted buckwheat seeds, a rice cracker, and nutmeg. Choi describes it as "nutty, grainy, comforting, and surprisingly filling," drawing inspiration from Korean grain drinks and puffed rice snacks.
For a citrusy twist, the Chocolate-Covered Orange Latte ($9) pays homage to the hallabong oranges of Korea's Jeju Island. It combines house-made orange chocolate syrup with orange-infused whipped foam, fresh zest, and a pinch of salt. Notably, this drink and the Dubai Latte ($12) can be prepared with espresso upon request for those seeking a caffeine kick.
The Dubai Latte is a rich, pistachio-forward creation topped with kadayif, dark chocolate curls, and pistachios. Rounding out the seasonal menu is the Honey Cranberry Tea ($9), a non-alcoholic drink reminiscent of a hot toddy, made with a house-prepared honeyed ginger and cranberry syrup and rose-infused oat milk foam.
A Blend of Culture and Comfort
This innovative move by Sharpfle Waffle, run by brothers David and James Choi, represents more than just new menu items. It's a fusion of Korean culinary heritage with Ottawa's vibrant cafe culture. By transforming the familiar format of a latte into a vehicle for traditional winter flavours, the cafe offers a unique form of comfort food that is both novel and nostalgic. The drinks provide a warm, filling alternative for those looking to enjoy a cozy beverage without caffeine, expanding the definition of what a latte can be in Canada's capital.
