What do Anton Chigurh, Hans Landa, and Alex DeLarge have in common? I know someone else who belongs on that list. For him, place and time don't matter: any moment is the right moment for a cold glass of milk. From a Michelin-starred establishment to a street food stall, his singular order always causes the same surprise. How is the order registered? How is the service performed? How is it included in the check? Cold, hot, or lukewarm; in a cup, a glass, or a jar; with or without sugar; latte or americano. Despite being a basic ingredient in almost any kitchen, fulfilling the mission of bringing it to the table even challenges the most creative waiter.

Cantonese cuisine, famous worldwide, is precisely one of those that does not   include dairy. In that culinary universe, dairy is historically an anomaly from the West. Far from heavy flavors, this cuisine’s ingredients are presented in perfect balance. On the palate, freshness, natural flavor,  and subtlety are distinguished.

We had arrived at the very heart of the city. The scent of fresh ginger, star anise, and cinnamon floated through the alleys and mixed with the steam from the dim sum. At the bar, however, the bottles looked like fish swimming in a sea of light. We were at Hope & Sesame, one of Asia's most acclaimed bars. Initially, the menu transported us to a Cantonese restaurant. The cocktails were named after ingredients. They were Single Origin Cocktails that used a single base component. A true challenge for mixology: to explore flavors from a single ingredient in different states and with the most varied techniques.

As I scanned the menu, trying to decide between Rice and Pepper, my attention was on him. He, who had never dared to order milk at a bar before, could do so now. It was his moment. We were at the only bar that had anticipated his singular craving. He had a sparkle in his eyes, and I had the absolute certainty of what his choice would be: 

Milk

Sheep’s milk gin, almond milk, whey, distilled milk powder, and tonka bean.

At a majestic, colorful bar, facing the bartender and his brews. Without a second thought, he ordered Corn. And I, Olive.