Coffee is more than just a morning pick-me-up—it's a global obsession and a staple in countless cultures. Whether enjoyed at home, in a cosy café, or on the go, coffee has become an essential part of daily life for millions. From its rich history to the many types of coffee beans and brewing styles, coffee has evolved into a cultural phenomenon with a vibrant and ever-growing market. In fact, the global coffee industry was valued at over US$93.2 billion in 2024, with projections showing steady growth at 4.41% annually through 2028.
But beyond its popularity, a common question arises: is coffee good or bad for health? While studies continue to examine the health benefits of coffee and its potential side effects, there's no denying the emotional connection people have to this beverage. The comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee brings joy across generations and continents, turning each cup into a shared ritual of warmth and energy.
From cold brew vs hot coffee debates to discovering the best coffee brewing methods, there’s always something new for coffee lovers to explore. The industry continues to innovate, offering everything from specialty espresso-based drinks to beginner-friendly brews. Whether you're curious about the caffeine content in coffee, want to learn how to make coffee at home, or are just starting your journey with coffee for beginners, this guide will walk you through 31 popular types of coffee drinks that are making waves around the world.
All types of coffee
1. Coffee Beans: The Foundation of Every Cup
Before we explore the many types of coffee drinks, let’s start at the root: coffee beans. All coffee begins here, with four main types of coffee beans that each bring their own flavor, aroma, and caffeine content.
1.1 Arabica
Arabica is the world’s most popular coffee bean—and for good reason. Known for its smooth taste and nuanced flavor notes, Arabica beans often dominate the specialty coffee market. They’re typically grown at high altitudes in regions like Ethiopia, Colombia, Brazil, Costa Rica, and Kenya.
Flavor Profile: Fruity, floral, with mild acidity and less bitterness
Caffeine Content: Lower than Robusta
Ideal For: Pour-overs, cold brews, and black coffee lovers
1.2 Robusta
Robusta beans pack a punch. With higher caffeine content and a bold, earthy flavor, they’re perfect for espresso blends. Grown in low-altitude, warm climates like Vietnam, Brazil, and parts of Africa, Robusta thrives in tough conditions.
Flavor Profile: Bitter, strong, earthy
Caffeine Content: Higher than Arabica
Ideal For: Espressos, strong brews, and early-morning wake-up calls
1.3 Liberica
A lesser-known gem, Liberica beans are large and irregular in shape with a distinctive taste—floral, smoky, and sometimes fruity. These beans are primarily grown in Southeast Asia, including the Philippines and parts of West Africa.
Flavor Profile: Smoky, fruity, bold
Caffeine Content: Moderate
Ideal For: Coffee enthusiasts looking for something unique
1.4 Excelsa
Technically a sub-variety of Liberica, Excelsa beans are celebrated for their tart, fruity taste and are often used in blends to add complexity. They’re cultivated mainly in Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines and Indonesia.
Flavor Profile: Tart, fruity, complex
Caffeine Content: Moderate
Ideal For: Blends and adventurous palates
2. Types of Hot Coffee Drinks
Now that we’ve met the beans, let’s explore how they’re brewed. Hot coffee drinks span continents and cultures, from the strong shots of Italy to the creamy cups of France. Whether you’re brewing at home or ordering at a café, there’s a style for every mood.
2.1 Americano
A classic for those who love espresso but want something a bit milder. An Americano is made by diluting espresso with hot water, creating a smooth yet bold coffee drink with more body than drip coffee.
Caffeine Content: Moderate to high
Best For: Espresso lovers who want a longer sip
2.2 Black Coffee
The OG of coffee drinks—pure, unfiltered, and free of frills. Black coffee is simply ground coffee brewed with hot water, often via drip, French press, or pour-over methods.
Health Benefits: Can aid weight loss, improve physical performance, and reduce diabetes risk
Best For: Minimalists and health-conscious coffee drinkers
2.3 Black Eye
Need a serious jolt? Meet the Black Eye—drip coffee spiked with a double shot of espresso. With over 200mg of caffeine per cup, it’s not for the faint of heart.
AKA: Red Eye, Depth Charge, Shot in the Dark
Best For: All-nighters and caffeine junkies
2.4 Bulletproof Coffee
Part of the health and fitness scene, Bulletproof coffee blends brewed coffee with grass-fed butter and MCT oil. It’s designed to boost mental clarity, suppress hunger, and fuel workouts.
Health Benefits: Sustained energy, cognitive support
Best For: Keto followers and intermittent fasters
2.5 Café au Lait
This French staple combines strong brewed coffee with steamed milk in equal parts. Think of it as a softer, less foamy cousin to the latte.
Best For: Smooth mornings and chic Parisian vibes
2.6 Cappuccino
An espresso base layered with equal parts steamed milk and milk foam. It’s light, creamy, and often topped with a sprinkle of cocoa.
Variations:
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Wet Cappuccino (more milk, creamier)
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Dry Cappuccino (less milk, stronger)
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Iced Cappuccino (cold foam on espresso)
Best For: Fans of balance and foam artistry
2.7 Cortado
A Spanish gem made with equal parts espresso and steamed milk. It’s stronger than a latte but smoother than a straight shot of espresso.
Best For: Afternoon pick-me-ups with a strong-but-smooth edge
2.8 Doppio
Doppio means “double” in Italian—a double shot of espresso, served straight. Strong, bold, and straight to the point.
Best For: Espresso purists
2.9 Drip Coffee
The most common brewing method in North America. Hot water drips over ground coffee, passing through a filter and into a pot below. Great for brewing large batches.
Brewing Method: Drip machine or manual pour-over
Best For: Daily coffee drinkers and gatherings
2.10 Espresso
The foundation of many coffee drinks, espresso is a concentrated shot made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee under high pressure.
Use It To Make:
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Americano
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Latte
-
Red Eye
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Cappuccino
Best For: Quick hits of rich, complex flavor
2.11. Espresso con Panna
Espresso con Panna is a luxurious Italian coffee drink that layers bold espresso with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Translating to “espresso with cream,” this rich beverage blends the strong, aromatic essence of a traditional espresso shot with the silky smoothness of whipped dairy. It’s one of those types of coffee that highlight simplicity and elegance in every sip.
To prepare it, brew a single shot of espresso using your preferred brewing method—most often an espresso machine. Then, top it with soft-peaked whipped cream, allowing the textures to mingle in a velvety contrast of bitterness and sweetness. Ideal for espresso lovers craving a touch of indulgence, Espresso con Panna is both a visual and flavorful treat.
2.12. Flat White
Flat White coffee hails from Australia and New Zealand, designed for those who love the boldness of espresso but crave a smoother, milkier finish. Introduced in the 1980s, this espresso-based drink has gained global popularity as one of the most balanced types of coffee.
It’s made with a 30ml espresso shot and topped with velvety microfoam milk in a 200ml ceramic cup. Unlike a cappuccino, the foam layer is thin, giving it a "flat" appearance. The result is a creamy, rich drink where espresso meets milk in a harmonious flavor profile—less airy than a latte, more mellow than a macchiato.
2.13. Galão
Galão is Portugal’s answer to the latte—a warm, milky coffee drink that’s light and comforting. Typically served in a tall glass, Galão combines one part espresso with three parts steamed milk. It’s a gentle introduction to coffee for those who prefer a subtler caffeine hit.
This milky blend is a staple morning coffee in Portuguese cafés, perfect for slow mornings and cozy afternoons. Among all types of coffee, Galão stands out for its easygoing, approachable flavor and creamy body.
2.14. Irish Coffee
A beloved blend of warmth and spirit, Irish Coffee is where rich black coffee meets smooth Irish whiskey, sugar, and a crown of cream. Originating in 1940s Ireland, it was first created to warm up travelers arriving at Foynes Airport.
To craft it, brew a strong coffee base, stir in sugar and whiskey, and top it with lightly whipped cream floated delicately on a spoon. The result is a decadent, boozy brew—a sweet, spiked delight that’s often enjoyed as an after-dinner drink or cozy winter treat.
2.15. Latte
A true café classic, the Latte—or Caffè Latte in Italian—blends a shot of espresso with steamed milk and a light layer of foam. It’s one of the most popular types of coffee for a reason: smooth, mellow, and endlessly customizable.
Usually made with a 1:2 espresso-to-milk ratio, lattes offer a softer coffee flavor that appeals to a wide range of palates. Whether enjoyed plain or with flavored syrups like vanilla or caramel, the latte is a staple for anyone exploring espresso drinks.
2.16. Long Black
The Long Black is a bold yet refined coffee drink from Australia and New Zealand. Made by pouring a double shot of espresso over hot water, it retains the espresso’s crema and depth while toning down its intensity.
Unlike the Americano, where water is added to espresso, the Long Black’s reversed method keeps the flavor rich and layered. It’s perfect for those who want the full-bodied strength of espresso in a more extended, sippable form.
2.17. Lungo
Lungo, meaning “long” in Italian, is an espresso variant brewed with more water for a longer extraction time. This brewing method creates a coffee that’s larger in volume than a standard espresso, with a milder taste and a more nuanced flavor profile.
Lungo maintains the essence of espresso but with a softer edge—less intense, more aromatic. It’s an excellent choice for coffee drinkers who love espresso but prefer a gentler finish.
2.18. Macchiato
Macchiato, which translates to “stained” or “spotted” in Italian, is one of the simplest types of coffee that still packs a punch. It’s made by adding a touch of frothy milk to a single shot of espresso, offering just enough creaminess to soften the edge without losing the bold espresso flavor.
There are two main variations: the espresso macchiato (served in a small cup with a light milk foam) and the latte macchiato (typically in a tall glass with layered milk and espresso). Both are quick, flavorful coffee choices perfect for those seeking balance in their brew.
2.19. Mocha
Mocha is where coffee meets dessert. A fusion of espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup or cocoa powder, the mocha delivers a rich, sweet flavor that coffee and chocolate lovers adore.
Popular mocha varieties include White Mocha, Dark Chocolate Mocha, and Hazelnut Mocha. Often topped with whipped cream and chocolate drizzle, it’s a go-to drink when you’re craving both a caffeine kick and a sweet treat.
2.20. Red Eye
The Red Eye is not for the faint of heart. This ultra-caffeinated brew combines a regular cup of drip coffee with a shot of espresso, making it one of the strongest types of coffee on the list.
Named after overnight flights that leave you red-eyed and groggy, this drink delivers a swift and potent jolt of energy. If you need to power through a long day (or a long night), Red Eye coffee is your bold and bitter ally.
2.21. Ristretto
Ristretto, meaning “restricted” in Italian, is a short shot of espresso that uses less water and a finer grind, resulting in a more concentrated flavor. Think of it as espresso in its most intense and pure form.
This brewing method pulls only the first part of the espresso shot, capturing the sweetest and most robust notes. It’s ideal for espresso aficionados seeking a quick hit of deep, complex flavor.
2.22. Turkish Coffee
Turkish Coffee is a centuries-old brewing method that brings coffee back to its roots. Finely ground coffee is simmered with water (and sometimes sugar) in a small pot called a cezve. The result is an unfiltered, strong brew poured into small cups.
Served with grounds still settled at the bottom, Turkish Coffee is thick, aromatic, and often enjoyed slowly, with a glass of water on the side. It’s not just a drink—it’s a ritual.
3. Types of cold coffee drinks
Cold coffee isn’t just a summertime fling — it’s a vibe, a ritual, and a refreshing escape. Whether you're cooling down under the sun or craving a chilled caffeine hit, cold coffee drinks offer versatility, flavor, and a creative twist on your classic cup.
From timeless brews like iced coffee to modern marvels like nitro infusions, there’s a cold coffee creation for every kind of mood and moment. Let's dive into the iced, creamy, and chilled world of cool coffee favorites.
3.23. Affogato — The Dessert That Drinks Coffee
Affogato means “drowned” in Italian — and it’s exactly that: a scoop of vanilla ice cream dramatically drowned under a hot shot of espresso. It’s less of a drink, more of an experience. A dance between fire and ice, bitter and sweet, espresso and indulgence.
Though its exact origin is a little hazy, the affogato began charming taste buds across Italy sometime in the mid-20th century and has since become a global café staple.
How it's made:
Brew a fresh shot of espresso. Place a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream (or gelato, if you’re feeling fancy) in a small glass or bowl. Pour the hot espresso over the ice cream. Watch it melt, swirl, and become pure caffeinated poetry.
Why people love it:
The affogato blends the creamy richness of dessert with the boldness of espresso in one beautiful mess of flavor. It’s usually served as an after-meal treat in restaurants and cafes — a perfect pick for those who want their coffee to flirt with dessert.
3.24. Cold Brew — Slow Magic in a Glass
Cold brew isn’t just coffee. It’s patience in a pitcher.
Born from ancient Japanese techniques and now loved across the globe, cold brew coffee has carved a name for itself in the modern coffee scene. According to the National Coffee Association, it ranks among the top three brewing methods today.
What makes it special?
Cold brew is made by steeping coarse coffee grounds in cold water for 12 to 24 hours. No heat, no rush. Just time.
This slow, chilled extraction creates a coffee that’s smooth, subtly sweet, and significantly lower in acidity compared to hot-brewed brews.
Serving tip:
Often diluted with water, milk, or alt-milks, cold brew is the perfect mellow sip for those who want their coffee bold but not bitter.
3.25. Frappuccino — The Cool Kid on the Coffee Block
A mashup of “frappe” and “cappuccino,” the Frappuccino is Starbucks’ gift to the world of icy indulgence — and it’s become a legend of its own.
How it’s made:
Blend coffee, milk, ice, and syrup into a smooth, slushy drink that’s more milkshake than macchiato.
With flavors like mocha, caramel, and vanilla, it’s a sweet, chilled fantasy you can sip on-the-go.
Why it’s iconic:
Part treat, part coffee — Frappuccinos are the sugary, caffeinated joyrides of the iced drink universe.
3.26. Iced Caramel Macchiato — Layers of Sweet Luxury
Velvety, creamy, and dripping in golden caramel, the iced caramel macchiato is a modern classic.
It’s made by layering cold milk over ice, followed by a bold shot of espresso, and crowned with a drizzle of caramel syrup.
Taste profile:
You get rich coffee, mellow milk, and a pop of sugary bliss in every sip.
It’s a go-to summer staple that’s all about balance — bold and sweet, chilled yet energizing.
3.27. Iced Latte — The Chilled Everyday Hero
Simple, elegant, and endlessly customizable, the iced latte is that effortlessly cool friend in your coffee circle.
Made with:
One (or two) shots of espresso, ice, and chilled milk. It’s typically served in a tall glass, with the layers visible like a dreamy coffee gradient.
Customize it:
Vanilla syrup, oat milk, a dash of cinnamon, or even a little whipped cream — iced lattes are made to be personalized.
3.28. Mazagran — The Original Cold Coffee Rebel
Think of Mazagran as the iced coffee’s edgy ancestor. Originating in Algeria and popularized by French soldiers in the 1800s, this drink mixes cold coffee with ice, sugar, and often a squeeze of lemon or splash of rum.
Why it stands out:
It’s crisp, caffeinated, and citrusy — perfect for hot climates and even hotter moods.
Fun fact:
Mazagran is one of the earliest known iced coffee beverages, and its legacy lives on in every refreshing sip.
3.29. Nitro Coffee — Cold Brew, But Make It Smooth
Welcome to the future of coffee. Nitro coffee takes traditional cold brew and infuses it with nitrogen gas — the same magic used in draft beer.
What you get:
A creamy, foamy, almost Guinness-like mouthfeel with zero cream or sugar added. Just naturally sweet, low-acid coffee, poured on tap or from a sleek can.
Where it began:
Invented by Nate Armbrust in Portland, this fizzy wonder has since become a staple in specialty coffee shops everywhere.
3.30. Shakerato — Italy’s Coolest Espresso Trick
Say it with style: Shakerato. This chic Italian iced coffee is made by shaking espresso, ice, and sometimes sugar in a cocktail shaker until it’s frothy and chilled.
Serving vibe:
It’s served in a stemmed glass, silky with bubbles and dressed like an espresso martini’s sober cousin.
Perfect for:
A hot day in Rome — or anytime you need an elegant caffeine fix that skips the milk and leans into pure espresso bliss.
3.31. Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cà phê đá) — Bold, Sweet, Iconic
Strong, sweet, and endlessly satisfying — Cà phê đá, or Vietnamese iced coffee, is a drink that hits hard and melts hearts.
How it’s made:
Using a phin filter, robust Vietnamese coffee is brewed slowly over sweetened condensed milk. Once ready, it’s poured over ice, creating a rich, dessert-like delight.
Flavor profile:
Bitter coffee meets thick, sugary milk in a love story that tastes like no other. It’s bold, it’s creamy, and it’s built for warm afternoons and caffeine drea
Fifteen Coffee Fun Facts to Liven Up Your Day
Coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a lifestyle, a ritual, a global obsession. From ancient goat herders to modern-day espresso fanatics, the story of coffee is rich, weird, and wonderfully surprising. Let’s spill the beans...
1. Coffee Has Ancient Origins – Like Really Ancient
Legend says it all began around 800 A.D. in Ethiopia. Goat herders noticed their goats were straight-up vibing after munching on mysterious red berries. Curious, the herder tried them—and boom, the world’s favorite buzz was born.
2. Coffee Is Technically a Fruit
Yep, those “coffee beans” are actually seeds nestled inside a coffee cherry, a red fruit that grows on lush green bushes. So next time you sip your cup of joe, you’re basically drinking fruity tea in disguise.
3. Beethoven Was a Hardcore Coffee Fan
The classical composer didn’t just love coffee—he obsessed over it. 60 beans per cup, counted by hand, every time. Talk about precision brewing before it was cool.
4. Brazil Rules the Coffee World
Brazil isn’t just a soccer legend—it’s also the world’s top coffee producer, growing about one-third of the planet’s entire coffee supply. Following close behind? Vietnam and Colombia.
5. Finland Drinks the Most Coffee (Seriously)
Brazil might grow it, but Finland sips it. On average, each Finnish person consumes 12 kg of coffee per year—that’s around 1,680 cups annually. Total coffee-core behavior.
6. Coffee Funded Brazil’s Olympic Dreams
When Brazil couldn’t afford to send athletes to the 1932 Olympics, they got creative—loading a ship full of coffee and selling it en route to fund the journey. Caffeine-fueled determination, literally.
7. Coffee Used to Be Eaten, Not Sipped
Long before it was brewed into a beverage, East African tribes crushed coffee cherries and mixed them with animal fat for an energy-packed snack. Call it the OG energy bar.
8. Arabica vs. Robusta: The Bean Battle
There are two main types of coffee beans:
-
Arabica – smooth, sweet, lower acidity
-
Robusta – bold, bitter, higher in caffeine
Most specialty cafes go Arabica, but instant coffee often rocks Robusta.
9. Decaf Isn’t Caffeine-Free
Don’t be fooled—decaf still contains caffeine. For coffee to earn the “decaf” label, it just needs to have less than 0.3% caffeine. So if you're sensitive, beware the buzz.
10. Your Fizzy Drink Might Have Decaf Coffee Caffeine
The caffeine extracted from decaf beans doesn’t go to waste—it’s sold to soda and pharmaceutical companies, ending up in your favorite cola or energy meds.
11. Instant Coffee? Thank NESCAFÉ®
The first modern instant coffee was brewed up by NESCAFÉ® in response to Brazil’s coffee surplus in the 1930s. After years of innovation, they bottled convenience and revolutionized the way the world sips.
12. Coffee Was Once Outlawed
Back in the 1700s, some rulers believed coffee fueled radical thinking. In 1746, Sweden banned not just coffee—but cups and saucers too. Imagine getting arrested for your morning brew.
13. The World’s Most Expensive Coffee Costs $600/lb
Ever heard of Kopi Luwak? This Indonesian delicacy involves coffee cherries eaten and digested by a civet cat, then cleaned, roasted, and brewed. Price tag? Around $600 per pound. Would you sip it or skip it?
14. The Largest Cup of Coffee? 26,939 Litres!
Mexico brewed its way into the record books in December 2022 by making a giant coffee cup containing 26,939.22 litres of the good stuff. That’s one monster-sized morning.
15. Britain Secretly Loves Coffee
Sure, the UK is tea-famous, but behind the scenes? Coffee dominates. Brits down an estimated 95 million cups of coffee every single day. Plot twist: the UK is buzzing on espresso shots, not Earl Grey.
SUMMARY
This blog is your go-to guide for everything coffee. It covers over 30 popular types of coffee drinks, from classics like cappuccino and espresso to global favorites like Vietnamese iced coffee and Italy’s Shakerato. You'll also discover how each type is brewed, its taste profile, and its cultural origin. Along the way, uncover 15 fun and surprising coffee facts—like how coffee was once banned, how Finland drinks the most, and how coffee helped Brazil attend the Olympics. Whether you're a beginner or a full-blown barista-in-training, this blog is your passport to becoming a true coffee connoisseur.
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