Coffee culture has rapidly expanded in China, reflecting the nation’s growing middle class, modern lifestyle shifts, and increasing international influences. While tea remains a staple in Chinese culture, coffee is now finding its place in both metropolitan hubs and smaller cities. This article will explore the most popular coffee in China, diving into the types of coffee drinks, the dominant coffee brands, emerging trends, and how the Chinese coffee scene differs from global standards.
The Rise of Coffee Culture in China
In the past, China was primarily known as a tea-drinking country. Coffee consumption was a niche interest, predominantly limited to expatriates and international travelers. However, over the last two decades, coffee has grown exponentially in popularity, largely driven by young, urban professionals.
According to a report from the International Coffee Organization, China is now one of the fastest-growing coffee markets in the world. Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen are hubs for coffee consumption, with an increasing number of cafes popping up each year. The Chinese coffee market is expected to reach new heights as domestic consumption continues to grow, especially with younger generations embracing Western-style coffee beverages.
Most Popular Coffee Types in China
Several coffee varieties dominate the market in China, reflecting both global coffee trends and local preferences.
1. Latte
The latte is arguably the most popular coffee drink in China. This creamy, milky coffee beverage is favored for its mild, approachable flavor, which appeals to many new coffee drinkers. Chinese consumers, particularly those new to coffee, tend to prefer drinks that balance the bitterness of coffee with sweetness, and a latte is the perfect combination of espresso and steamed milk.
Latte variations, including flavored lattes such as vanilla, caramel, and matcha lattes, are also widely popular. These beverages are offered in almost every coffee chain in China, including Starbucks, Costa Coffee, and local cafes.
2. Americano
Americano is another highly popular coffee choice, particularly for those who have developed a taste for coffee but prefer a milder flavor compared to espresso. The Americano, made by diluting a shot of espresso with hot water, delivers a more subtle and watered-down taste of coffee, making it suitable for many Chinese consumers who prefer to sip on their coffee for a longer period, much like tea.
Many older generations of Chinese coffee drinkers also tend to favor the Americano because it closely resembles the traditional long-drink concept in tea culture.
3. Cappuccino
Cappuccinos, a classic Italian coffee made with equal parts of espresso, steamed milk, and foam, are also widely enjoyed in China. Cappuccinos offer a balance of coffee flavor and texture, with the added foam providing a unique mouthfeel. Chinese coffee consumers are drawn to its light yet rich taste, often opting for it as a morning pick-me-up or a mid-day treat.
4. Flat White
The flat white, which originated in Australia and New Zealand, has gained significant popularity in China. It’s similar to a latte but with a higher ratio of coffee to milk, providing a stronger coffee flavor while maintaining a smooth texture. Flat whites have become a trendy choice, particularly among more discerning coffee drinkers and those seeking a bolder coffee experience without the intensity of a straight espresso.
5. Iced Coffee
Iced coffee is increasingly becoming a favorite among Chinese consumers, particularly during the hot summer months. Both iced lattes and iced Americanos are widely ordered in cafes. The concept of iced coffee fits well with China’s urban lifestyle, where beverages are often consumed on the go. Coffee chains frequently offer seasonal iced coffee beverages with flavors like hazelnut, vanilla, and caramel to cater to the diverse tastes of the market.
6. Instant Coffee
While fresh brewed coffee is on the rise, instant coffee remains a huge part of the Chinese coffee market. Brands like Nestlé and Maxwell House have long dominated the instant coffee scene, with products that cater to the convenience-seeking consumer. However, in recent years, Chinese coffee companies like Luckin Coffee and Three Squirrels have entered the instant coffee market, offering more premium and gourmet instant coffee options.
Instant coffee is especially popular among older generations or those who live in smaller cities, where the availability of coffee shops may be more limited.
Popular Coffee Brands in China
China’s coffee market is populated by both international giants and rapidly expanding local players. Let’s explore some of the most popular coffee brands:
1. Starbucks
Starbucks is the largest and most influential coffee brand in China. Since entering the Chinese market in 1999, the American coffee giant has expanded aggressively, with over 6,000 stores across more than 230 cities. Starbucks’ success in China is due to its ability to adapt to local tastes, such as introducing tea-based beverages, incorporating local flavors like green tea or red bean, and designing stores that cater to China’s café culture.
The brand’s widespread presence and prestige make it the go-to option for many coffee drinkers. Starbucks is especially popular among young professionals, students, and those seeking a premium coffee experience.
2. Luckin Coffee
Luckin Coffee, founded in 2017, quickly became one of the biggest coffee chains in China by adopting a technology-driven business model. Luckin offers convenient app-based ordering and delivery services, which have resonated with the digital-savvy Chinese consumers. The brand competes directly with Starbucks, offering lower prices and frequent promotions.
Despite a financial scandal in 2020, Luckin Coffee has rebounded and remains one of the most popular coffee choices in China, particularly in second and third-tier cities. Luckin’s range of drinks, including its best-selling latte and innovative seasonal beverages, keeps it in the forefront of Chinese coffee culture.
See Also: Luckin Coffee Franchise Costs, Profit & Requirements For 2024
3. Costa Coffee
Costa Coffee, a British coffee chain, is another popular brand in China. Known for its high-quality espresso-based drinks, Costa caters to more discerning coffee drinkers. While it may not have as many stores as Starbucks, Costa is recognized for its premium coffee blends and relaxing café environment.
See Also: Why Are Costa Coffee So Popular?
4. McCafé
McDonald’s McCafé has become a significant player in China’s coffee market by offering affordable coffee beverages that target a more budget-conscious consumer base. While not as premium as Starbucks or Costa, McCafé is a popular option for those looking for a quick and affordable cup of coffee.
See Also: Which Mccafe Coffee Is Best
Emerging Coffee Trends in China
The coffee market in China is continuously evolving, with new trends shaping the industry and consumer preferences. Below are some emerging trends that are influencing the most popular coffee choices in China:
1. Specialty Coffee
As coffee culture matures, there is a growing interest in specialty coffee. Specialty coffee refers to high-quality coffee beans that are carefully sourced, roasted, and brewed for optimal flavor. Independent cafes that focus on offering unique single-origin coffee and artisanal brewing methods are becoming increasingly popular in cities like Shanghai and Beijing. Consumers are becoming more knowledgeable about coffee origins, roast levels, and brewing techniques, and they are willing to pay a premium for a superior cup of coffee.
2. Cold Brew Coffee
Cold brew coffee is a new favorite among Chinese coffee enthusiasts, particularly among younger, health-conscious consumers. Cold brew, made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, offers a smoother, less acidic taste compared to traditional iced coffee. Many coffee chains and cafes now offer cold brew options, and it’s especially popular during summer months.
See Also: The 7 Best Cold Brew Coffee
3. Coffee Delivery Services
The integration of technology in the Chinese coffee market has led to the rise of coffee delivery services. Companies like Luckin Coffee have capitalized on this trend, allowing consumers to order coffee directly to their homes or workplaces via mobile apps. The convenience of coffee delivery has contributed to the popularity of coffee in China’s fast-paced urban environments.
4. Coffee with Chinese Ingredients
In recent years, there has been an increasing trend of incorporating traditional Chinese ingredients into coffee beverages. Coffee infused with elements like osmanthus flowers, red dates, or goji berries is becoming more common, offering a fusion of East and West. These innovative drinks resonate with consumers who appreciate local flavors while still enjoying the novelty of coffee.
Conclusion
The most popular coffee in China includes familiar beverages like lattes, Americanos, and cappuccinos, with brands like Starbucks and Luckin Coffee leading the charge. However, as the coffee culture continues to evolve, there is a growing trend toward specialty coffee, cold brews, and drinks that incorporate traditional Chinese flavors. With a dynamic and rapidly growing market, China’s coffee scene is one to watch closely in the coming years.