Coffee is one of the most popular beverages globally, and in the United States, it has become a daily ritual for millions of people. Whether it is an early morning pick-me-up or an afternoon energy boost, Americans rely heavily on coffee. With so many options available, from espresso and cappuccino to cold brew and more, the question arises: what is the most commonly ordered coffee in the United States?
Most Popular Coffee in the United States
Between 2017 and 2018, the Specialty Coffee Association and Square analyzed millions of coffee purchases across the country. Their research showed that the latte was the most popular coffee order. During this period, more than sixty-seven million lattes were sold. In addition, the average customer often added one or two customizations, such as flavored syrups or alternative milk options.
The latte’s popularity comes from its versatility. Made primarily with steamed milk and espresso, it offers a smooth taste that can easily incorporate other flavors. Customers often enhance their lattes with vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, or seasonal flavors like peppermint or pumpkin spice. This adaptability makes it suitable for a variety of tastes and occasions throughout the day.
Coffee Facts and Statistics
According to surveys, sixty-four percent of Americans aged eighteen and older reported drinking coffee the previous day. Baby Boomers are the most frequent coffee consumers, with fifty-six percent drinking coffee daily. About thirty-one percent of coffee drinkers consider coffee the most important part of their morning routine. Additionally, the instant coffee category is growing slightly faster than the overall coffee market in the United States, with a growth rate of four point four percent compared to four point two percent.
Coffee Trends Around the World
While lattes dominate in the United States, coffee preferences differ internationally. In Vietnam, iced coffee with condensed milk is widely enjoyed. In Thailand, espresso beans roasted over charcoal are a popular choice. Pour-over coffee remains common in Japan, although espresso-based drinks are becoming more popular. In China, instant coffee continues to dominate, though espresso drinks are growing in popularity alongside the expansion of local and international coffee chains.
In Europe, the latte is also the favorite in the United Kingdom. In Italy, the birthplace of espresso, espresso remains the top choice. In Germany, the Americano is the most commonly ordered coffee. In France, Café au lait, made with equal parts brewed coffee and steamed milk, is the standard beverage.
In Africa, Ethiopia maintains its traditional coffee culture, where coffee is brewed in a jebena and shared during ceremonial gatherings. In South Africa, instant coffee is still widely consumed, though the demand for premium coffee is increasing. In Egypt, Turkish coffee brewed in a cezve is the most popular choice.
In South America, Colombian coffee drinkers prefer black coffee, often sweetened with sugarcane juice or cinnamon, known as tinto. In Brazil, Cafézinho, a small cup of sweetened black coffee, remains a staple.
In Australia, the flat white is the most popular coffee, accounting for twenty-five percent of coffee sales, while instant coffee continues to have a strong presence.
Although the latte is the dominant choice in the United States due to its flexibility and customizability, each country has its own signature coffee rooted in tradition and culture. From strong Italian espresso and sweet Brazilian Cafézinho to ceremonial Ethiopian brews, coffee continues to connect people across the world, one cup at a time.
Source: https://www.wakacoffee.com/blogs/coffeelifeblog/the-most-popular-coffee-order
