Catering Glass Guide: Coffee

The Glass Guide for coffee explains different coffee cups and coffee glasses and explains which coffee varieties are available.

Coffee glasses vs. coffee cups

In the Netherlands we drink coffee all day long. But what is the ideal glass/cup to serve coffee in? In this Glass Guide we will talk about coffee glasses and coffee cups !

All kinds of factors influence the experience of drinking a cup of coffee. The coffee bean, roasting time of the bean, grind size, country of origin and much more. Also a very important one: the drinking utensils. Not the sexiest word, but when it comes to coffee we can't just talk about glasses.

Before we look at coffee varieties and associated drinkware, we look at the different materials. Finally, we look at what suits your guests best. Are you looking for glassware for a specific coffee variety? Then click on the link for this variant below. If you are also curious about the different functions of the materials, read on.

Ideal material for coffee cups and coffee glasses

Before we talk about coffee varieties, it is important to look at the different materials. The three most commonly used materials are: porcelain, glass and ceramics. Each of these three materials has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Properties that are important for use in the catering industry are strength and weight. For a number of coffee varieties it is important that the material ensures that the coffee remains at the right temperature. In other words, we are looking for a material with a low thermal conductivity. Although most of the heat is lost through the opening, the material also plays an important role. It is also important that the material can be washed in the dishwasher and that flavors do not absorb into it.

Porcelain coffee cups

Porcelain is the most commonly used material for serving coffee. Everyone knows the porcelain cup. Porcelain is actually a mix of glass and earthenware (ceramics). Because this material is manufactured at a high temperature, it is relatively sturdy. Porcelain is also light compared to glass and ceramics. The thermal conductivity of porcelain is between 1.0 and 1.8. This is relatively high and the contents of a cup therefore cool down relatively quickly. Most porcelain is dishwasher safe, but always check this. Porcelain cups are always easy to clean and do not absorb flavors.

Ceramic coffee cups

Ceramic cups are also sometimes used to serve coffee. However, ceramics are less suitable for the catering industry. It is less sturdy and heavier than porcelain. This will quickly make it difficult for many catering companies. The thermal conductivity of ceramic is slightly lower than that of porcelain, at an average of 1.3. The coffee therefore stays warm a little longer. However, the difference is minimal.

Coffee glasses

Glassware is becoming increasingly popular for a number of coffee varieties. This mainly has to do with the presentation. The different layers of a latte macchiato look good in a glass. Glass is only slightly heavier than porcelain. Often a lot sturdier. Techniques in recent years have made glassware a lot sturdier. Coffee glasses from the ONIS and 47 Ronin brands in particular can certainly take a beating. In addition, the thermal conductivity of glass is 0.7 to 1 lower than that of porcelain and ceramics. The coffee therefore stays warm longer.

Double-walled coffee glasses

Nowadays you also often see double-walled glasses being used for coffee. The stagnant air ensures that the coffee stays warm even longer. The thermal conductivity of stagnant air is 0.024. However, there is also a disadvantage to double-walled glassware. Guests do not feel well whether their coffee is at the right temperature to drink. If it is still much too warm, it can be very painful.

Cups or glasses per coffee variety

Okay, we now know the important properties of the materials. The next step is matching with the coffee varieties. In addition to the material, size also plays an important role.

Espresso glasses or espresso cups

The Espresso. An Italian classic. Big flavor in a small sip. This small, temperamental Italian feels most at home in a small, classic cup. Also looks great in a small double-walled glass. However, the classic cup still provides the ultimate espresso experience for many.

Capacity: 50ml – 80ml

Americano glasses or americano cups

Espresso topped up with hot water. Basically just a diluted espresso. During the Second World War, the Americans found espresso a bit too strong and so the Americano was born. Great for a glass or cup. The glass is increasingly preferred for the Americano. The glass ensures that you can better estimate how strong the Americano will be. Glasses are very useful, especially if your guests pour the hot water themselves.

Capacity: 140ml – 200ml

Cappuccino glasses or Cappuccino cups

One part espresso, one part steamed milk and one part milk foam. Delicious variant to start the day. Also for later in the day if you are not Italian. The cappuccino is often served in the classic porcelain cup. Some people believe that a porcelain cup is better to drink with a cappuccino. If this is not the case for your guests, double-walled glass can be a good choice. You don't drink a cappuccino in one sip. The fact that a cappuccino stays warm for longer can be very useful. Also ensure that the inside of the cup is evenly rounded. This helps with a stable foam layer.

Size: 140ml – 260ml

Latte macchiato glasses or latte macchiato cups

Espresso with steamed milk and micro foam. The latte macchiato or sometimes just latte, is often served in a glass in the Netherlands. This has everything to do with the presentation. The different layers on top of each other look beautiful.

Size: 300ml -500ml

Flat white cups or flat white glasses

1/3 espresso and 2/3 milk. Introduced to Europe a while ago by some travelers from down under: the flat white. The flat white is served in both glasses and cups. Are the baristas in your catering business specialized in latte art? Then choosing a cup is often the best choice. In a cup the emphasis is more on the latte art.

Size: 200ml – 400ml

Iced coffee glasses or iced coffee cups

Iced coffee is almost always served in a glass. There is usually not enough room in cups for the ice cubes. In addition, drinking from a cup through a straw looks a bit strange.

Size: 300ml – 500ml

What suits your concept?

Do your guests enjoy a classic cappuccino in a white cup or in a glass the most? What are they used to? Keep these questions in mind when choosing coffee cups or coffee glasses. After all, the cup/glass is one of the most important parts of the presentation and the experience. In general, 'older' guests prefer to drink from the classic porcelain coffee cups. Simply because they are used to this. Always choose coffee cups or coffee glasses that match your interior and/or other tableware. There are enough options for both coffee cups and coffee glasses to find something suitable.

Finally

In any case, always make sure that the coffee looks attractive. Choose drinkware that compliments latte art or pretty tiers. Choose the right size and a brand that makes quality products. You also always choose products that suit your catering business. Don't know what is ideal for your catering business? Please contact us!