The secret to the traditional cafe au lait found at Cafe du Monde comes from the chicory root, which was historically used to increase strength and bitterness, especially during the Civil War and Great Depression when beans were scarce. Using chicory root as a supplement or replacement for coffee originally came to the colony of New Orleans from its native France in the early 1800s, and the pungent flavor and aroma eventually became a local tradition. It is one of the most historic flavors associated with the city. We hope you will enjoy this taste of New Orleans now offered in decaf single serve cups.