Dunkin’ has launched its new fall menu, featuring a unique latte that pays homage to Rhode Island’s beloved coffee milk.
Named the “Dunkalatte,” this novel beverage marries espresso with coffee milk, a staple of Little Rhody’s culinary tradition. The coffee milk used in the Dunkalatte is crafted from whole milk infused with Dunkin’s proprietary coffee extract.
NBC 10 visited Dunkin’s Smith Hill store to gather feedback from patrons about the new offering. Customer Jack Saribekian described the drink as “solid,” noting, “It’s like coffee, not too strong, but it’s good.”
Now available nationwide, the Dunkalatte aims to share a taste of Rhode Island with Dunkin’s broader customer base. Peter Palmer, another customer, expressed enthusiasm about the drink’s potential to introduce the unique flavors of Little Rhody to a wider audience. “It’s good so they get the experience of Little Rhody,” Palmer said.
Dunkin’ spokespersons revealed that Rhode Island holds a special place in the company’s history, prompting them to celebrate this cherished local tradition. Chef Frank Terranova shed light on the origins of coffee milk, explaining that Italian immigrants in the 1800s blended coffee with milk, creating a regional favorite.