Top 10 Must-Try Coffee Drinks for Espresso Lovers

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If you're serious about espresso, chances are you've moved past plain shots and into the world of crafted coffee drinks. Whether you're after bold intensity, creamy balance, or something a little sweet, there’s an espresso-based drink out there with your name on it.

Here are 10 must-try coffee drinks every espresso lover should experience, whether you're brewing at home or ordering like a pro at your local café.

1. Espresso Macchiato

Best for: Purists who want a little smoothness.

The macchiato is a shot of espresso with just a touch of steamed milk or foam. It's bold and strong but softened slightly, keeping the focus on the espresso's rich body. If you want a drink that highlights the espresso but tones down the bite just a bit, this is it.

Pro Tip: Ask for a “traditional macchiato” to avoid the syrupy versions popularized by chains.

2. Cappuccino

Best for: A balanced start to your day.

Cappuccinos are the go-to for many coffee drinkers. Made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam, this drink balances intensity and creaminess. The foam adds texture, while the espresso still shines through.

Why Try It: It’s a classic that highlights both coffee strength and milk sweetness in one sip.

3. Flat White

Best for: Smooth espresso with minimal foam.

Originating in Australia and New Zealand, the flat white is similar to a cappuccino but with less foam and a higher milk-to-espresso ratio. It’s typically made with two shots of espresso (a ristretto, if done traditionally) and velvety microfoam.

Flavor Profile: Strong but creamy, with a silky texture.

4. Cortado

Best for: Equal parts bold and mellow.

The cortado is a Spanish favorite: equal parts espresso and steamed milk. No foam, no fuss. It tones down the acidity and sharpness of the espresso without masking its flavor.

Why Espresso Fans Love It: It keeps the espresso strong but takes the edge off with just the right amount of milk.

5. Americano

Best for: A longer coffee experience without the dilution of flavor.

An Americano is made by adding hot water to espresso. It gives you the volume of drip coffee but retains the richer flavor of espresso. Perfect for sipping slowly.

Pro Tip: Try it with an extra shot for a stronger punch.

6. Latte

Best for: Creamy, mellow coffee comfort.

Lattes are espresso with a generous amount of steamed milk and a thin layer of foam. It’s a favorite for those who like flavored syrups, but even plain, it’s a smooth, gentle take on espresso.

Popular Variations: Vanilla, caramel, or oat milk lattes.

7. Mocha

Best for: Espresso lovers with a sweet tooth.

A mocha blends espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup or cocoa powder. Think of it as coffee’s answer to hot chocolate—but with a grown-up edge.

Flavor Tip: Ask for dark chocolate or less syrup if you want to keep it from becoming too sweet.

8. Ristretto

Best for: Intensity seekers.

A ristretto is a short shot of espresso using the same amount of coffee but less water. The result is a more concentrated, syrupy shot with less bitterness and more body.

Tasting Notes: Rich, bold, slightly sweet without sugar.

9. Affogato

Best for: Coffee + dessert lovers.

An affogato isn’t just a drink—it’s a full experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream “drowned” in a shot of hot espresso creates a delicious mix of hot, cold, sweet, and bitter.

When to Have It: Dessert, afternoon pick-me-up, or both.

10. Iced Shaken Espresso (Espresso Freddo)

Best for: Cold brew fans who want a stronger hit.

This drink involves espresso shaken with ice and a touch of sweetener. The result is cold, frothy, and bold. It’s the ideal warm-weather espresso drink.

Upgrade: Add a splash of oat or almond milk for a smoother version.

Final Shot

If you’re an espresso lover, trying new drinks is a great way to explore how milk, foam, temperature, and even chocolate or ice can bring out different layers of your favorite brew. Whether you like it bold and black or smooth and sweet, there’s an espresso drink to match your mood.

Pro Tip: Learn how to order these confidently at cafés, or better yet—learn to make them at home. Investing in a good espresso machine pays for itself quickly if you’re making quality drinks daily.