A Long Mac Topped Up is a bolder, beefed-up version of the traditional Long Macchiato—and it’s something we West Aussies wear like a badge of honour.
As long-time Perth coffee roasters and café owners, we’ve made our fair share of these beauties. So, we’re here to spill the beans on how to make the perfect Long Mac Topped Up—and why it deserves its place on your coffee order rotation.
Whether you’re a proud regular or just getting familiar with this iconic WA coffee style, this one’s for you.
Quick Recap (Because Life’s Busy)
- The Long Mac Topped Up is a proudly Perth coffee creation
- It’s a stronger, bolder take on the traditional Long Macchiato
- Medium roast beans hit the flavour sweet spot
- Any milk works—so pick your fave
- Robusta? Bit too punchy in this one (you’ve already got two shots!)
- Compared to a Flat White, it’s got an extra espresso kick
So, What Is a Long Mac Topped Up?
If you’re from Perth, you’ve likely ordered a Long Mac Topped Up without even thinking twice. But if you’re from the east coast—or just dipping your toes into coffee culture—you might be wondering what all the fuss is about.
Think of it like a Flat White or Latte… but stronger. A macchiato, in its original form, is a short, sharp espresso with a splash of milk or foam. The Long Mac builds on that, and when it’s “topped up,” it means we’ve gone full West Aussie—big, bold, and filled to the brim with velvety milk.
It’s rich. It’s smooth. It’s uniquely Perth. And once you start ordering them, it’s hard to go back.
How to Make a Long Mac Topped Up (The Home Brew Edition)
Want to whip one up at home like a seasoned barista? Easy. Here’s how:
Step 1: Brew a double shot of espresso (Bonus points if you’re using local beans)
Step 2: Pour it into a 6 to 8 oz cup
Step 3: Choose your milk—full cream, skim, almond, oat... whatever your taste buds are vibing with
Step 4: Top it up with your milk of choice (add a bit of foam if that’s your thing)
Bonus Step 5: Have fun with it!
This is the beauty of the Long Mac Topped Up—it’s totally versatile. For even more vibrant flavour and robust taste, ask for your Long Mac topped up to 3/4.
Tweak it, test it, find your perfect ratio.
Long Mac Topped Up vs. Flat White (Let’s Clear This Up)
There’s a bit of confusion around these two, so here’s the lowdown:
A Flat White is usually two espresso shots topped with textured milk, served in a 12 oz cup.
A Long Mac Topped Up is similar—but with an extra espresso shot. That extra punch is what gives it the “topped up” title (and gets you moving on a Monday morning).
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
| Feature | Long Mac Topped Up | Flat White |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | Double shot, steamed milk, minimal foam | Single or double shot, steamed milk, microfoam |
| Origin | Invented right here in WA | Debated (we say it's Aussie through and through) |
| Flavour | Strong, bold, creamy | Smooth, subtly sweet |
| Ratio | More milk than a traditional mac | Less milk than a latte |
| Texture | Creamy and rich | Velvety and balanced |
| Size | 6–8 oz | 5–6 oz |
How Many Calories Are in a Long Mac Topped Up?
Depends on the milk, really. Here’s a quick calorie guide to help you decide:
-
Full cream milk: ~130 calories
-
Skim milk: ~37 calories
-
Almond milk: ~20 calories
- Oat milk: ~60 calories
(We’ll always back the full cream version for flavour, but hey, you do you.)
The Best Coffee Beans for a Long Mac Topped Up
After a whole lot of testing (and sipping), we’ve found medium roast Arabica beans make the best base for a Long Mac Topped Up.
Why? Because they give you that rich flavour, a touch of acidity, and just enough depth to stand up to milk—without being too overpowering.
Here are two of our favourites:
Colombian Beans
Rich, smooth, and balanced with sweet notes of dried fruit, honey, and cocoa.
Brazilian Beans
Full-bodied with nutty undertones and a hint of caramel. Classic, dependable, and delicious.
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The Most Delicious Perth Coffee Beans for a Long Mac Topped Up
The Long Mac Topped Up is one of those drinks that sparks instant recognition in WA cafés—and probably confusion everywhere else. But that’s what makes it ours.
It’s rich, velvety, full of personality, and totally customisable.
If you haven’t already made it your regular, consider this your invitation to get on board.
Need Beans?
We’ve got you sorted.
Check out our range of handpicked coffee beans online, perfect for Long Mac Topped Ups (and just about every other brew method too).
Got questions? Want a recommendation? Drop us a line—we’re always up for a chat about coffee.