There’s a certain kind of social pressure that comes with being someone who doesn’t like coffee. You walk into a bustling coffee shop with friends, and while everyone else is confidently ordering their double shot lattes and cappuccinos, you feel a bit lost. The menu seems designed entirely for coffee enthusiasts, and you’re left wondering if there’s anything here for you.
The answer is a resounding yes. A great coffee shop is about far more than just coffee. It’s about creating a warm, welcoming space where everyone can find a drink that makes them happy, whether that drink contains a single drop of coffee or not.
If you’ve ever felt like the odd one out because coffee just isn’t your thing, this guide is for you. Let’s explore the delicious world of warm, comforting beverages that have absolutely nothing to do with a coffee bean.
Hot Chocolate Done Right
Let’s start with the drink that needs no introduction. Hot chocolate is the ultimate comfort beverage, evoking memories of childhood and cozy winter nights. But we’re not talking about the watery, instant powder from a packet. A truly great hot chocolate is a rich, velvety experience.
A quality coffee shop will make their hot chocolate with real chocolate, not just cocoa powder. This could be melted dark chocolate or a high quality chocolate syrup, whisked together with steamed milk until it’s smooth and luxurious. The result is a drink that’s deeply satisfying, not overly sweet, and has a complexity of flavor that rivals any espresso drink.
You can elevate it even further by asking for a touch of vanilla, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a hint of sea salt on top. For a truly indulgent treat, request whipped cream and chocolate shavings. Hot chocolate isn’t just for kids; it’s a sophisticated, delicious choice for anyone seeking warmth and comfort.
Chai Lattes and Spiced Teas
If you’re looking for something with a bit more complexity and a gentle kick of spice, a chai latte is your friend. Chai is a traditional Indian spiced tea made with black tea and a blend of warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves.
A chai latte is made by steaming milk and mixing it with a concentrated chai tea base, creating a creamy, aromatic drink that is both soothing and invigorating. The spices provide a natural warmth that feels especially perfect on a chilly day. You can order it with dairy milk or any non-dairy alternative like oat milk or almond milk.
If you prefer your tea without the creaminess of a latte, most coffee shops also offer a wide variety of high quality loose leaf teas. Herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint, or rooibos are naturally caffeine free and offer a range of soothing flavors. Green tea and white tea provide a lighter, more delicate experience with just a touch of caffeine if you want a gentle lift without the intensity of coffee.
Matcha Lattes
Matcha has become incredibly popular in recent years, and for good reason. It’s a finely ground powder made from specially grown green tea leaves, and it has a unique, earthy flavor that is unlike anything else.
A matcha latte is made by whisking the matcha powder with a small amount of hot water to create a smooth paste, then adding steamed milk. The result is a vibrant green drink that is creamy, slightly sweet, and has a subtle, complex flavor. Matcha contains caffeine, but it releases it more slowly than coffee, providing a calm, focused energy without the jitters.
For those who want the ritual and the caffeine boost of a morning beverage but don’t enjoy the taste of coffee, matcha is an excellent and increasingly popular alternative.
Steamed Milk and Flavored Steamers
Sometimes, the simplest things are the best. A “steamer” is exactly what it sounds like: steamed milk flavored with a syrup of your choice. It’s warm, it’s comforting, and it’s endlessly customizable.
Popular flavors include vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, and seasonal options like pumpkin spice or peppermint. You can choose your milk type, whether with whole milk for maximum creaminess, oat milk for a slightly sweet, dairy-free option, or almond milk for a lighter choice. The beauty of a steamer is its simplicity. It’s a cozy, gentle drink that’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
London Fog
If you want something that feels a bit more refined and elegant, order a London Fog. This is a drink made with Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, and a touch of vanilla syrup.
The bergamot flavor in Earl Grey pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the milk and the subtle sweetness of the vanilla, creating a drink that is aromatic, soothing, and incredibly satisfying. It’s a favorite among tea lovers and a perfect choice for a quiet afternoon or a relaxing evening.
Being a non-coffee person doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the experience of a great coffee shop. In fact, exploring the wide world of warm beverages beyond coffee can be a delightful adventure. The next time you find yourself in a coffee shop, walk up to the counter with confidence. There’s a whole menu of delicious, comforting drinks waiting for you to discover.
FAQs
Do all of these drinks contain caffeine?
No, and that’s part of their appeal. Hot chocolate, herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint, and steamers are all naturally caffeine free. Chai lattes and matcha lattes do contain caffeine, but generally less than a cup of coffee. If you’re avoiding caffeine, just let the barista know, and they can guide you to the perfect option.
Can I get these drinks iced as well?
Absolutely. Most of these beverages can be made iced if you prefer a cold drink. Iced chai lattes, iced matcha lattes, and even iced hot chocolate are all delicious and refreshing options, especially during the warmer months.
Are these drinks more expensive than regular coffee?
The pricing is usually very comparable. Specialty drinks like lattes, whether they are made with coffee, chai, or matcha, are typically priced similarly. Hot chocolate and steamers are often in the same range as well. The cost reflects the quality of the ingredients and the care that goes into making each drink.
I’m lactose intolerant. Can I still enjoy these drinks?
Yes, absolutely. Most modern coffee shops offer a variety of non-dairy milk alternatives, including oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, and coconut milk. All of the drinks in this guide can be made with your preferred non-dairy option, and many people find that oat milk in particular provides a rich, creamy texture that works beautifully in lattes and steamers.
What should I order if I want something warm and comforting but not too sweet?
A London Fog or a plain steamed milk with just a hint of vanilla or cinnamon are both excellent choices. You can also ask for your hot chocolate or chai latte to be made with less sweetener. A good barista will be happy to customize any drink to match your taste preferences.
