Despite a long-standing tea tradition, Ireland’s coffee scene has become vibrant in recent years. Many Irish people now start their day with a cup of coffee. For example, in the early 2010s specialty cafés like Dublin’s 3fe began showing Irish customers that coffee is a craft, not just a quick caffeine fix. Surveys show that the Americano is the most ordered coffee in Ireland, with cappuccino and latte close behind. In Dublin and beyond, specialty coffee shops have popped up in every neighborhood. Dozens of Irish coffee roasters now supply these cafés with carefully roasted beans. Even outside the major cities, cafés serve international favorites like flat whites, mochas, and drip coffee. Filter coffee remains a staple in many Irish cafés. Cities like Cork, Galway, and Belfast also now have thriving coffee cultures, and even many small towns support specialty cafés.
Brewing Coffee in Ireland
Irish cafés take coffee brewing seriously. Baristas often train for years to pull the perfect espresso shot. Local roasters focus on quality beans and roasting techniques to bring out rich flavors. Many cafés even list the origin of their beans (for example, Colombian or Ethiopian) and roast levels on the menu to educate customers. As a result, Irish coffee is often freshly ground and carefully brewed, offering a full-bodied taste and smooth texture. Many people now brew coffee at home too. During COVID lockdowns, sales of home espresso machines, grinders, and scales jumped as people learned to make café-style coffee in their kitchens.
Irish Coffee Culture
Coffee is now part of daily life and social gatherings in Ireland. Coffee shops are common meeting places where friends chat, students study, and colleagues catch up. Meeting over coffee is as normal as going out for a drink used to be. Younger people are keen on new coffee trends. Cold-brew and other chilled coffees have grown in popularity. Many cafés now offer plant-based milk alternatives: almond, soy, and oat milks are the most popular choices. Interestingly, one report found that about 76% of Irish coffee drinkers consider taste to be the most important factor when choosing their drink. Ireland has also embraced global coffee styles. Drinks like cappuccino, latte, and flat white are now standard items on Irish café menus. Even the classic Irish Coffee — hot coffee with Irish whiskey, sugar, and cream — is a celebrated treat. It was created in Ireland and is often enjoyed in winter and on St. Patrick’s Day. The mix of whiskey and coffee (often made with smooth Irish whiskey like Jameson) creates a warming, full-flavored drink that is uniquely Irish.
Favorite Coffee Drinks
1. Americano
An Americano is a simple black coffee made by adding hot water to one or more shots of espresso. This creates a drink similar to brewed coffee but with a richer flavor. In Ireland, the Americano is especially popular. It has been identified as the country’s top coffee choice 4 . Many people enjoy it plain, though some add a dash of milk or sugar.
2. Cappuccino
A cappuccino is an Italian drink made of equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. The foam top makes it smooth and creamy. It’s a balanced drink: strong from the espresso but softened by the milk and foam. Irish cafés serve cappuccinos all day long – at breakfast, at lunch, or anytime in between. Often, the foam is lightly dusted with cocoa or cinnamon for extra flavor.
3. Latte
A latte (short for caffè latte) is similar to a cappuccino but contains more steamed milk and less foam. It’s creamier and milder than a cappuccino. Many Irish people enjoy lattes in the morning or as an afternoon pick-me-up. Its gentle taste makes it a comforting drink. In cafés, lattes are often served in large cups or glasses. Some shops also offer flavored lattes (vanilla, caramel, etc.), though plain latte is the standard.
4. Flat White
The Flat White comes from Australia/New Zealand. It’s like a stronger latte with a velvety microfoam. Flat Whites have become very popular in Ireland in recent years. They are usually served in smaller cups (about 150–180 ml) than lattes, which concentrates the coffee’s flavor. Coffee lovers who want a strong espresso taste with a little smooth milk often choose a Flat White.
5. Espresso
Espresso is a very concentrated shot of coffee, made by forcing hot water through finely-ground beans. It has a rich, intense flavor and a layer of crema on top. Because it is very strong, an espresso is often served as a double shot or sipped quickly (sometimes called a “short black”). In Ireland, some people drink espresso straight for a quick kick, but it more commonly forms the base of cappuccinos, lattes, mochas, and other drinks.
6. Mocha
A Mocha is a sweet coffee drink made with espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup or cocoa. It is often topped with whipped cream or a dusting of chocolate. In Ireland, mochas are enjoyed as a dessert-like treat. It’s a favorite for those who love the taste of coffee but also want the richness of chocolate.
7. Irish Coffee
An Irish Coffee is a coffee cocktail. It is made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and sugar, and is usually topped with cream 15 . It was invented in Ireland (at Foynes in County Limerick) to warm travelers on cold nights. Today it is often enjoyed in winter and at Irish pubs. The combination of whiskey and coffee creates a warming, full-flavored drink that is distinctively Irish.
8. Cold Brew
In recent years, chilled coffee drinks have grown in popularity in Ireland. Cold brew coffee is made by steeping ground coffee in cold water for many hours. The result is a smooth, less acidic coffee. Young people in particular enjoy ordering cold brew and iced coffees in cafes 11 6 . Many cafés now offer iced lattes and iced mochas as well. Cold brew is valued for its smooth, refreshing taste, and these chilled drinks have become increasingly common in Irish cafés, especially in warm weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the most popular coffee drink in Ireland?
Surveys show that the Americano is Ireland’s top coffee choice, followed by the cappuccino and latte. -
What makes an Irish Coffee unique?
Irish Coffee is unique because it mixes Irish whiskey into hot coffee and tops it with cream. Specifically, hot coffee, whiskey, and a bit of sugar are combined, and then thick cream is floated on top. This creates a warming, slightly sweet drink that is a classic Irish treat. -
Are cappuccino and latte popular in Ireland?
Yes. Cappuccinos, lattes, and similar espresso-based drinks are very popular in Ireland. They are everyday staples at cafés and in homes. -
How has international coffee culture influenced Ireland?
Ireland’s coffee culture now includes many global influences. In addition to classic drinks, you’ll find flat whites, mochas, cold brews, and other international styles. The specialty coffee movement has brought new brewing methods and high-quality beans to Irish cafés. -
Are cold coffee drinks popular in Ireland?
They are on the rise. Hot coffee still dominates, but cold brew and iced coffees have become more common, especially among younger customers. -
Is coffee a social staple in Ireland?
Yes. Coffee shops are common gathering spots in Ireland. In cities and towns, people often meet over a cup of coffee. Socializing in cafés is now a normal part of life, much like going to the pub used to be.
In summary, Ireland’s coffee culture covers many forms and tastes. Traditional espresso drinks remain popular, but newer trends keep the scene fresh. Whether you prefer a simple black Americano, a creamy latte, or even a sweet Irish Coffee cocktail, Irish cafés have you covered. This blend of tradition and innovation is what makes Ireland’s coffee culture vibrant and unique. Whether enjoyed in a busy city café or a quiet small-town shop, coffee in Ireland brings people together and offers a bit of comfort in every cup. From bean to brew, the Irish coffee scene continues to grow and delight drinkers of all tastes.