So... What Kind of Coffee Drinker Are You?
Let’s be honest—coffee isn’t just a drink. It’s a way of life. Some people need it to function, others treat it like a proper hobby, and a few just want something sweet that vaguely tastes like coffee.
However you take yours, there are loads of ways to do coffee—and if you’ve ever stared at a menu and thought, what on earth is a macchiato, you’re not alone.
Here’s a straightforward guide to some of the most popular coffee types, so next time you’re in a café, you’ll have a better idea of what’s what (and maybe discover a new favourite).
1. Espresso – The Original Power Shot
Small cup. Big energy. Espresso is coffee in its most intense form—strong, dark, and straight to the point. It’s also the base for loads of other drinks, but plenty of people just sip it as is.
Vibe: You’ve got things to do, places to be, and you’re not here to mess about.
2. Americano – The Mellow One
Take an espresso, top it up with hot water, and you’ve got an Americano. It’s got that proper coffee flavour, but a bit more chilled out than a straight espresso.
Go for this if: You like a longer drink but still want that rich espresso taste.
3. Latte – The Crowd-Pleaser
A latte is espresso with steamed milk and a little bit of foam on top. It’s creamy, smooth, and super easy to customise with things like oat milk or vanilla syrup.
Best for: Easy mornings, catching up with mates, or pretending you live in Copenhagen.
4. Cappuccino – Frothy and Fancy
Cappuccinos are all about the foam. It’s one-third espresso, one-third steamed milk, and one-third frothy milk. Bit lighter than a latte, but still cosy.
Try it if: You like a bit of drama with your morning brew.
5. Flat White – Silky and Strong
Flat whites started off in Australia and New Zealand and have properly taken off in the UK. It’s similar to a latte but made with microfoam (that smooth, velvety milk) and usually has a stronger coffee flavour.
Perfect when: You want a bit more punch but still love that creamy texture.
6. Macchiato – Small but Mighty
Macchiato means “stained” in Italian, and that’s exactly what this is—an espresso “stained” with a dash of milk or foam. Modern versions (like the caramel one) are more like coffee desserts, but the original’s all about that bold flavour.
Best for: When you’re in the mood for espresso, but not that much espresso.
7. Mocha – For the Sweet Tooth
A mocha is what happens when coffee meets hot chocolate. Espresso, steamed milk, chocolate, and sometimes a bit of whipped cream on top. It’s indulgent, sweet, and ideal when you’re not sure what you want.
Great if: You think hot chocolate is delicious but would be better with caffeine.
8. Cold Brew – The Laid-Back One
Cold brew is made by steeping ground coffee in cold water for ages (like, 12–24 hours). It’s smooth, naturally a bit sweet, and served over ice. Less bitter, more mellow.
Good for: Summer days, or anyone who says “I’m not really a hot drink person.”
9. Iced Coffee – The Quick Fix
Unlike cold brew, iced coffee is just regular brewed coffee that’s been cooled down and poured over ice. It’s refreshing and does the job—especially when you need caffeine now.
Perfect when: It’s hot, you’re tired, and you’re not in the mood to wait.
10. Around the World in a Coffee Cup
Fancy trying something a bit different? There’s a whole world of coffee styles out there:
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Turkish Coffee: Super strong, unfiltered, and brewed with sugar. Comes with grounds at the bottom—don’t drink those.
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Vietnamese Coffee: Bold drip coffee served over sweetened condensed milk. Hot or iced, always delicious.
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Café Cubano: Sweetened espresso shot that packs a serious punch.
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Café au Lait: French classic—half filter coffee, half steamed milk. No foam, just vibes.
Great for: Trying something new, travelling via taste buds, or impressing your coffee snob mate.
Wrapping It Up
Whether you like it bold and black, light and milky, hot, iced, or with a mountain of foam—there’s no “right” way to drink coffee. It's all about what you like.
Next time you’re in a café (or even your kitchen), maybe try something a bit different. You might surprise yourself.
