Coffee is more than just a beverage; it’s a ritual, a comfort, and a window into cultures around the world.
From bold espressos to creamy lattes, coffee offers endless possibilities to savor and explore.
Here are 30 coffee drinks every coffee lover should try at least once in their lifetime.
1. Espresso (Italy)
Espresso is the foundation of Italian coffee culture and can be found in cafes all over Italy.
This rich, concentrated coffee is made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans, resulting in a bold and flavorful shot. It can be enjoyed alone or as the base for other drinks, as espresso truly embodies the spirit of Italy’s love for coffee.
2. Cappuccino (Italy)
A classic Italian favorite, cappuccino features equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam. Often dusted with cocoa powder, it’s a perfect morning pick-me-up.
3. Latte (Italy)
Creamy and smooth, a latte combines espresso with steamed milk and a small amount of foam. It’s perfect for those who prefer a milder coffee flavor
4. Americano (USA)
This simple drink is made by diluting a shot of espresso with hot water, creating a milder coffee similar to traditional drip coffee.
5. Flat White (Australia/New Zealand)
Similar to a latte but with a higher coffee-to-milk ratio. The flat white is a must-try for coffee lovers, combining espresso with velvety microfoam.
This drink hails from Australia and New Zealand, making it a creamy delight that’s perfect for any time of day. With its rich flavor and smooth texture, the flat white is sure to win over your taste buds!
6. Macchiato (Italy)
The macchiato is a true Italian staple that packs a flavorful punch. Macchiato, means “stained” in Italian, and is an espresso topped with a dollop of foam or milk, giving a concentrated yet slightly creamy taste. This drink is not just for caffeine lovers; it’s a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy your coffee break.
7. Mocha (USA)
A sweet blend of espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup. A mocha is often topped with whipped cream, making it a coffee and dessert in one.
8. Cortado (Spain)
A cortado balances espresso and steamed milk in equal parts. Its name comes from the Spanish word “cortar,” meaning “to cut,” referring to the milk cutting the espresso’s acidity.
9. Turkish Coffee (Turkey)
Turkish coffee is more than just a drink; it’s a cultural experience. Brewed slowly in a unique pot called a cezve, it delivers a strong and aromatic flavor that many adore. Turkish coffee is rich, thick, and unfiltered, often sweetened and served with grounds settling at the bottom.
Served in small cups, it’s often enjoyed with a side of sweet treat, making each sip a moment to savor.
10. Vietnamese Egg Coffee (Vietnam)
This unique coffee is made by whipping egg yolks with sugar and sweetened condensed milk, creating a creamy, custard-like topping over strong Vietnamese coffee.
11. Affogato (Italy)
More dessert than drink, an affogato is a scoop of vanilla gelato drowned in a shot of hot espresso, offering a delightful mix of hot and cold.
12. Irish Coffee (Ireland)
A boozy treat, Irish coffee combines hot coffee with Irish whiskey, sugar, and a topping of whipped cream.
Enjoy it by the fire for a cozy experience that feels like a warm hug in a mug!
13. Café au Lait (France)
This French classic mixes equal parts brewed coffee and steamed milk, offering a simple and satisfying way to enjoy coffee.
14. Dalgona Coffee (South Korea)
Dalgona coffee is a delicious treat that is Instagram worthy.
This whipped coffee blend features equal parts instant coffee, sugar, and hot water, all whipped until fluffy and served over milk. Perfect for a cozy afternoon or a fun coffee break, it’s a must-try for any coffee lover!
15. Ristretto (Italy)
A shorter, more concentrated version of espresso, ristretto offers a bolder flavor with a smoother finish.
16. Cuban Coffee (Cuba)
Known as cafecito, this sweetened espresso is brewed with sugar, creating a thick, syrupy coffee that’s full of flavor.
17. Espresso Martini (UK)
The Espresso Martini is a fun blend of coffee and cocktail culture. This drink combines rich espresso, vodka, and a hint of coffee liqueur for a smooth finish.
It’s perfect for coffee lovers seeking something a little different after dinner!
18. Nitro Cold Brew (USA)
Infused with nitrogen gas, nitro cold brew is a smooth, creamy coffee with a frothy top, served cold without ice.
19. Café Bombón (Spain)
This Spanish treat layers sweetened condensed milk and espresso in a small glass, creating a visually stunning and deliciously sweet coffee.
20. Iced Coffee (Global)
Simply brewed coffee served over ice, iced coffee is a refreshing way to enjoy your caffeine fix on a hot day.
21. Cold Brew (USA)
Made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period. A cold brew is smooth, less acidic, and perfect for warm weather.
22. Lungo (Italy)
Lungo, meaning “long” in Italian, is an espresso brewed with more water, which gives it a milder flavor.
23. Caramel Macchiato (USA)
A sweeter take on the macchiato, this drink features espresso, steamed milk, vanilla syrup, and a drizzle of caramel.
24. Café de Olla (Mexico)
Brewed with cinnamon and piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar), Café de Olla is a warm, spiced coffee that’s deeply rooted in Mexican tradition. It’s brewed in a traditional clay pot, adding a unique flavor.
This comforting drink is perfect for gatherings and brings a taste of home to every sip.
25. Kopi Luwak (Indonesia)
Known as civet coffee, this rare and expensive drink is made from beans that have been partially digested by civets, creating a unique flavor. Not for the faint hearted!
26. Espresso con Panna (Italy)
Espresso topped with a dollop of whipped cream, espresso con panna adds a creamy sweetness to the boldness of espresso.
27. Frappe (Greece)
A frothy, iced coffee made with instant coffee, sugar, water, and milk. The frappe is a popular choice in Greece for a refreshing caffeine boost.
28. Café con Leche (Latin America)
Similar to a latte, Café con Leche mixes strong coffee with hot milk. It’s a comforting and popular drink across Latin America.
29. Mazagran (Portugal)
Often described as “iced coffee with a twist,” mazagran combines coffee with lemon juice and sugar, offering a tangy and refreshing flavor.
This refreshing beverage is perfect for warm days, sip it slowly and enjoy the bright flavors—it’s a real treat for any coffee lover!
30. White Coffee (Malaysia)
Originating in Ipoh, Malaysia, white coffee is roasted with palm oil margarine and served with condensed milk, creating a creamy, aromatic drink.
Coffee is a universal language with countless variations and interpretations.
So it doesn’t matter if you prefer it bold and black or sweet and creamy, this list of coffee drinks offers something for every palate.
Add these to your coffee bucket list and explore the world one cup at a time!
