Your daily coffee order may be associated with certain personality tendencies—but it is certainly not a psychological test.
For millions of people, coffee is much more than a morning drink. It is a habit, a small daily pleasure, an opportunity to socialise and often a carefully followed personal ritual: black or sweet, hot or iced, with regular or plant-based milk.
But could the way we order our coffee reveal something about our personality?
Clinical psychologist Dr Ramani Durvasula examined the coffee preferences of approximately 1,000 people and compared them with traits including extroversion, patience, sensitivity, perfectionism and social boldness. Her conclusions later became widely known through her book You Are WHY You Eat: Change Your Food Attitude, Change Your Life.
Black coffee: Simplicity and determination
People who prefer black coffee were described as practical, straightforward individuals who value simplicity and dislike unnecessary complications.
They tend to know what they want and approach tasks efficiently. However, they may also appear impatient, uncompromising or less comfortable with change.
Latte: Warmth and a desire to please
Latte drinkers were associated with warmer, more generous and sociable characteristics. They may care deeply about those around them and seek harmony in their relationships.
However, their willingness to accommodate others may occasionally lead them to neglect their own needs.
Cappuccino: An eye for detail
Cappuccino drinkers were characterised as demanding, attentive and particularly sensitive to detail. They often maintain high standards and want things to be done properly.
Their precision may reflect discipline and organisation, although it can sometimes develop into perfectionism or a strong desire for control.
Iced and sweet coffee: Spontaneity and boldness
The original categorisation largely concerned cold, sweet or blended drinks—not specifically the Greek freddo espresso. Those who preferred such beverages were associated with spontaneity, imagination and a willingness to try new experiences.
They may be more likely to follow new trends and make quick decisions, although they do not always consider every possible consequence.
Instant coffee: A relaxed outlook
Instant-coffee drinkers were described as more easy-going and unpretentious. They tend not to worry about unnecessary details and often prefer quick, straightforward solutions.
According to the reported findings, however, this relaxed approach may occasionally be accompanied by procrastination.
Decaf, plant-based milk and customised orders
People who request very specific adjustments—decaffeinated coffee, plant-based milk, a particular temperature or an exact amount of foam—were linked to greater attention to detail and a stronger need for control.
They may be disciplined, health-conscious individuals who know exactly what they want. On the other hand, they might find it more difficult to adapt when events do not unfold according to plan.
A coffee order is not a diagnosis
Entertaining as these associations may be, a cup of coffee cannot define anyone’s personality. Taste, health considerations, habit, age, culture and even the options available at a particular café can all influence an order.
Black coffee does not prove that someone is uncompromising, nor does choosing plant-based milk make a person a perfectionist. At most, our daily order offers a light-hearted conversation starter—preferably enjoyed over a good cup of coffee.
