31 Types of Coffee Every Coffee Lover Should Know
Ever feel overwhelmed looking at a coffee menu? I know I did. You’ve probably heard of a breve, cappuccino, or even Cuban coffee, but what sets them apart?
I remember the first time I walked into a specialty coffee shop—I felt like I needed a translator just to order. All I knew was that I loved coffee, but figuring out which one suited my taste buds took some trial and error. Once I understood the differences, though, everything clicked. I could confidently order, experiment, and even impress my friends with my “coffee knowledge.”
That’s the thing: once you know the basics, navigating the coffee world is so much easier. You’ll know whether you’re in the mood for something bold like espresso, creamy like a cappuccino, or unique like a café cubano.
In this guide, we’re breaking down 31 coffee types from all over the world—how they’re made, what they taste like, and what makes each one special. By the end, you’ll not only know the difference but might just discover your new go-to drink. Let’s dive in!
What Are Different Coffee Types?
Coffee is one of the most versatile drinks in the world, offering something for everyone, whether you love bold, concentrated flavors or creamy, dessert-like creations.
The sheer selection of drinks makes coffee so fascinating, each with unique brewing methods, origins, and tastes. From classic espresso-based drinks to trendy specialties, there’s always something new to explore.
Different Coffee Categories
The world of coffee is vast, but it can be grouped into five main categories. For this reason, let’s break down the information to help you out:
Espresso-Based Drinks
Espresso is the backbone of many beloved coffee drinks. These include lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos, all of which start with a shot (or two) of espresso and are customized with milk or foam to create a variety of textures and flavors. If you love rich and intense coffee, this category is for you.
Filter Coffee
Filter coffee is a slower, more relaxed brewing style that emphasizes the natural flavors of the coffee beans. You can think of pour-overs like the V60 or a French press brew.
These methods highlight the nuanced notes of single-origin beans. It’s perfect if you enjoy savoring the subtleties in your cup.
Iced Coffee
Iced coffee includes everything from a simple cold brew to elaborate frappes. It’s brewed differently to maintain a smooth flavor when chilled. Whether you want a refreshing coffee on a hot day or a creamy, iced latte, this category has something for every mood.
International Varieties
Every culture has its spin on coffee, and exploring these can be a journey in itself. From Turkish coffee, brewed to be bold and unfiltered, to Vietnamese egg coffee, which combines coffee with whipped egg yolk for a creamy treat.
Specialty and Trendy Types
Specialty coffee includes unique creations that have gained popularity in recent years, like nitro cold brew and bulletproof coffee. These often combine innovative brewing techniques or surprising ingredients to deliver a coffee experience that’s anything but ordinary.
Espresso-Based Drinks
Espresso-based drinks are versatile, customizable, and the backbone of many popular coffee creations.
Whether you like your coffee bold, creamy, or with a touch of sweetness, there’s an espresso drink for you. So let’s talk of the classics you’ll find at every café and how they cater to different tastes.
1 – Espresso
The purest form of coffee. Espresso is a small but mighty shot of concentrated coffee known for its rich, intense flavor. It’s the starting point for most coffee drinks, and true enthusiasts often enjoy it straight.
2 – Americano
For those who find espresso a bit too intense, the Americano is the solution. By diluting espresso with hot water, it offers a milder flavor while still maintaining that bold coffee essence. I find this option great for sipping slowly.
3 – Cappuccino
A favorite for its creamy texture, cappuccino is equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam. The creamy top layer makes it ideal for anyone who loves a rich coffee experience.
4 – Latte
The latte leans heavily on steamed milk, creating a smooth and velvety drink. It’s a popular choice for adding syrups like vanilla or hazelnut for a touch of sweetness.
5 – Flat White
A flat white is like a latte’s chic cousin. Originating in Australia, it has a smaller milk-to-coffee ratio and a silky microfoam texture that balances the espresso perfectly.
6 – Macchiato
If you’re looking for something bold but with a hint of creaminess, the macchiato is your go-to. It’s espresso “stained” with just a dollop of milk foam, giving you the best of both worlds.
7 – Mocha
A dessert in a cup, mocha combines the robust flavor of espresso with steamed milk and a generous swirl of chocolate syrup. It’s a favorite for anyone with a sweet tooth.
8 – Ristretto
For the espresso purists, ristretto is a shorter, more concentrated shot. It’s even bolder than traditional espresso, packing an intense punch of flavor in a small sip.
9 – Lungo
The opposite of ristretto, a lungo is a “long” espresso made with extra water. The result is a milder, less concentrated coffee that’s great for savoring.
10 – Cortado
Looking for balance? A cortado is equal parts espresso and steamed milk, creating a drink that tempers the intensity of espresso without overwhelming it with milk.
11 – Doppio
Sometimes one shot of espresso just isn’t enough. A doppio is simply a double shot, giving you twice the caffeine and flavor in one go.
Filter Coffee
Filter coffee takes a more subtle, traditional approach to brewing, letting the true flavors of the coffee beans shine.
Usually, these drinks are lighter, smoother, and less intense than their espresso-based counterparts, making them perfect for slow mornings or when you want to savor every sip.
12 – Café au Lait
Café au lait is simplicity at its best. This French classic is made by mixing freshly brewed coffee with steamed milk, resulting in a smooth and mild drink. It’s perfect for those who enjoy coffee without the intense bite of espresso.
13 – Turkish Coffee
Turkish coffee is all about tradition and bold flavor. Made by boiling finely ground coffee with water and sugar (if desired), it’s served unfiltered, giving you a rich, aromatic cup with a thick, velvety texture. Be sure to sip slowly to avoid the grounds at the bottom!
14 – Cold Brew
Cold brew is for hot summer days or anyone who loves less acidic coffee. By steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for 12-24 hours, you get a smooth, naturally sweet flavor that’s perfect over ice. It’s super versatile. You can add milk and sweeteners, or enjoy it straight.
15 – Nitro Cold Brew
Nitro cold brew takes your coffee experience to a whole new level. Infused with nitrogen gas, it has a creamy, smooth texture that almost feels like a coffee milkshake. Usually, it’s served straight from a tap and doesn’t need milk.
Iced Coffee
When the weather heats up, iced coffee becomes the best option. You can enjoy a refreshing and versatile caffeine fix. Whether you like it simple or sweet, there’s an iced coffee style out there for you.
16 – Iced Coffee
Classic iced coffee starts with hot-brewed coffee that’s chilled and served over ice. It’s quick and easy, but the key is to brew it a little stronger so the flavor doesn’t dilute when the ice melts. Add a splash of milk or your favorite syrup to customize it—it’s the perfect base to experiment with.
17 – Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Ca Phe Sua Da)
If you have a sweet tooth, Vietnamese iced coffee is a must-try. This bold drink combines strong coffee with creamy, sweetened condensed milk poured over ice. The flavor is rich and dessert-like, making it an enjoyable treat any time of day.
Pro tip: Use a traditional Vietnamese drip filter (phin) for the most authentic experience.
18 – Frappe
The Greek frappe is the ultimate beachside coffee drink. Made by shaking instant coffee, sugar, and water, it creates a frothy, slightly sweet iced coffee that’s super simple to whip up.
You pour it over ice, add milk if you want, and you’re good to go. It’s an effortless way to cool down and caffeinated.
International Varieties
I love exploring international coffee varieties. It is like taking a trip around the world without leaving your kitchen.
These unique drinks bring a cultural twist to your daily caffeine and they’re worth the adventure. From creamy coffee to bold, citrusy brews, here are some standout coffee styles:
19 – Egg Coffee (Ca Phe Trung)
If you’ve never tried Vietnamese egg coffee, you’re in for a treat. It’s a rich, smooth drink made by whipping egg yolks with sugar and condensed milk, creating a frothy, custard-like topping for your coffee.
The first time I had it, I thought, “Eggs and coffee? Really?” But one sip of that creamy, sweet goodness had me hooked. It’s like dessert in a cup.
20 – Café Bombón
Spain’s café bombón is simplicity at its finest: equal parts espresso and sweetened condensed milk.
You serve it in a glass, and you can see the beautiful layers before stirring it all together. The flavor is sweet and smooth.
21 – Mazagran
Mazagran is Portugal’s refreshing take on coffee. It’s a chilled drink made with coffee, lemon, and sometimes sugar or rum. I’ll admit, the idea of lemon and coffee together sounded odd at first.
However, it’s surprisingly bright and energizing. I enjoy it mostly during summer, and since I live in Portugal, I must positively promote our drinks.
22 – Café Cubano
This Cuban classic is all about sweetness and strength. This coffee is made by mixing sugar into the espresso while it’s brewing, creating a syrupy layer on top. The result is a bold, sweet shot that’s perfect for sipping or as a base for other drinks like cortaditos.
23 – Café con Leche
Similar to France’s café au lait, Spain’s café con leche is a comforting mix of espresso and steamed milk.
It’s less frothy than a latte, making it smooth and enjoyable. You can pair it with a slice of toast or pastry and have breakfast sorted.
Specialty and Trendy Types
If you want to shake up your coffee routine, specialty and trendy coffee drinks are where the magic happens.
Usually, these drinks combine bold flavors, creative ingredients, and unique textures that go beyond your average cup of joe. So, here’s a list of different coffees:
24 – Affogato
Ever had dessert and coffee rolled into one? That’s basically what an affogato is. Just imagine a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting under the heat of a freshly-pulled espresso shot.
It’s decadent, simple, and surprisingly easy to make at home. The first time I tried it, I thought, “Why didn’t I think of this genius combination sooner?”
25 – Irish Coffee
Irish coffee is like a cozy sweater on a cold day. You mix hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and a layer of cream. The whiskey adds a nice warmth, while the cream on top balances the richness. I find it perfect for chilly evenings or as a treat after dinner.
26 – Black Eye
If regular coffee doesn’t quite cut it for you, a black eye might do the trick. It’s a cup of drip coffee with not one, but two shots of espresso for an extra caffeine kick. Be warned—it’s not for the faint of heart, but it’s a lifesaver on those groggy mornings.
27 – Red Eye
Think of the red eye as the black eye’s slightly gentler cousin. It’s just one shot of espresso added to your coffee. You still get a solid boost of energy. However, it’s a little more approachable if you’re not ready for double espresso territory.
28 – Vienna Coffee
Vienna coffee is an espresso topped with whipped cream instead of the usual milk foam. You can expect a creamy, sweet, and feels fancy even if you’re just sipping it in your kitchen.
29 – Breve
A breve is essentially a latte made with half-and-half instead of regular milk. The extra creaminess takes the drink to a whole new level, making it richer. If you’re a fan of full-bodied drinks, this one’s a must-try.
30 – Bulletproof Coffee
Bulletproof coffee has been a trendsetter in the keto world, and it’s easy to see why. You make it with black coffee, butter, and MCT oil, it’s designed to give you a boost of energy while keeping you full. It sounds strange at first, but the buttery smoothness might just surprise you.
31 – Café Marocchino
Finally, we have the café marocchino, which is basically a chocolate lover’s dream. It’s espresso layered with cocoa powder, milk foam, and a drizzle of melted chocolate.
