The best coffee in the world is not in Colombia or Brazil, according to Taste Atlas: And you should try it at least once
Coffee is much more than a drink: for millions of people around the world, it represents a daily ritual, a necessary pause, or even an art form. Each country brings its own signature to coffee production and preparation, creating a vast variety of flavors, methods, and experiences worth discovering.
Recently, the prestigious culinary guide Taste Atlas published its ranking of the best types of coffee in the world, based on expert evaluations, international awards, and consumer opinions. The list includes a total of 65 specialties, and among the biggest surprises is that neither Colombia nor Brazil tops the ranking, despite their renowned coffee traditions.
Beyond flavor, coffee also connects generations, accompanies conversations, and plays a part in celebrations and daily routines. This cultural richness explains why Taste Atlas's ranking not only analyzes the bean or the technique but also the significance each type of coffee holds in the daily lives of those who enjoy it.
Below, the 10 highest-rated coffees in the world according to Taste Atlas.
THE 10 BEST TYPES OF COFFEE IN THE WORLD, ACCORDING TO TASTE ATLAS
1. Cuban Coffee (Cuba) – 4.6 stars
A presweetened espresso—made with raw sugar extracted from sugarcane—during preparation. With an intense flavor and a characteristic light brown foam, it is a cultural symbol in Cuba and very popular in Florida and Latin America.
2. Freddo Espresso (Greece) – 4.4 stars
A combination of espresso and ice, shaken until smooth and creamy. Served cold, it has been a Greek summer staple since the 90s.
3. Cappuccino (Italy) – 4.3 stars
An Italian classic made with espresso and steamed milk with abundant foam. Traditionally served in small cups and considered an art form in itself in Italy.
4. Ristretto (Italy) – 4.3 stars
A more concentrated version of espresso, with half the water and a less bitter but more intense flavor.
5. Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Vietnam) – 4.3 stars
Robusta coffee brewed in a 'phin' filter, mixed with condensed milk, and served over ice. A refreshing classic from Vietnam.
6. Indian Filter Coffee (India) – 4.3 stars
Brewed in a special metal filter, resulting in a strong and aromatic coffee, traditionally mixed with milk and sugar and served in a metal glass.
7. Freddo Cappuccino (Greece) – 4.3 stars
A cold variant of the cappuccino, combining shaken espresso with ice and a layer of very cold foamy milk.
8. Espresso (Italy) – 4.2 stars
The foundation of most Italian coffees, made by forcing hot water under pressure through finely ground coffee, resulting in a dense and concentrated brew.
9. Turkish Coffee (Turkey) – 4.2 stars
Prepared in a cezve, it is slowly boiled to produce a thick and aromatic coffee, famous for its dense foam and strong flavor.
10. Frappé (Greece) – 4.2 stars
Created in 1957, it blends instant coffee with water and ice, resulting in a foamy texture perfect for summer.