How to Confidently Order Coffee Like a Pro

Have you ever been surprised by the question “Which coffee do you like?” when you walk into a café? You might have felt lost by the barista's suggestions, like whether to drink single or double, or even more confused by coffee ratios like 100:80:20. If we don’t have any idea in this case, it can feel not only embarrassing but also like a barrier to finding our coffee preferences. Here we are pleased to explain these concepts once and for all. After reading this blog, you can confidently order your ideal cup of coffee. 

Coffee Ratios

In the brewing process, the coffee ratio is the relationship between the amount of coffee and water in a cup of coffee. Your coffee strength and flavor are highly affected by this ratio. It is common to show the coffee-to-water ratio with the correlation of 1 : X. 

Where 1 is the coffee amount, measured in grams or weight, and X is the amount of water, also in grams or weight. For example, in a 1:15 ratio, you use 1 gram of coffee for every 15 grams (or milliliters) of water. Therefore, in this ratio, as X is higher, there is a lighter brew.

1:15 to 1:18 are the most common ratios, with 1:16 being a popular middle choice for most coffee drinkers. You can adjust these based on personal preference or brewing method for a stronger or lighter cup.

While you might be asked for another type of ratio like 60:40, 80:20, or 100, correlating to the bean blend ratio of Arabica and Robusta. For example, 60:40 can refer to a blend of 60% Arabica and 40% Robusta beans

But why should we blend these 2 types of coffee beans? Because Arabica has higher acidity and its beans are smooth, while Robusta beans have a higher caffeine content, which makes them stronger with a bitter flavor. So by blending specified amounts of each coffee type or brewing ratio, you can reach your desired coffee flavor and strength. 

Should I Order Single or Double Shot?

As you order your coffee, especially if it is an espresso-based drink, the barista will ask you if it should be single or double. Here, we want to clarify how these shots can affect your coffee and its correlation with the coffee ratio. Let’s clarify this by comparing a single shot and a double shot of espresso. 

Single Shot of Espresso (1:2 Ratio)

There are about 7-9 grams of coffee that are finely ground. From this amount of ground coffee, 30 mL of liquid espresso (which is known as 1 ounce) is produced. In this case, you may experience a bold and concentrated flavor. 

• Brew Ratio: A 1:2 ratio means that for every gram of coffee, you use 2 grams of water.
• Caffeine Content: About 63 milligrams of caffeine in a single shot.
• Flavor: You might taste it as intense, with sharp acidity and bold flavors. It is perfect for those who want a quick and strong hit of espresso.

If you're looking for a small and focused espresso experience with less caffeine in your drink, try a single shot of espresso. 

Double Shot of Espresso (1:2 to 1:2.5 Ratio)

A double shot uses around 14-18 grams of coffee that produces about 2 ounces (60 mL) of espresso. It is also called a doppio, which is a perfect choice for most espresso-based drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos.

• Brew Ratio: A 1:2 to 1:2.5 ratio means a double shot uses 2x the coffee and water, resulting in a stronger, smoother brew.
• Caffeine Content: Approximately 125 milligrams of caffeine, which is about twice as much as a single shot.
• Flavor: It is smoother, more balanced, and less acidic than a single shot. It's the best option for those who prefer a richer, fuller taste in their coffee.

A double shot is often the preferred choice for drinks like lattes to balance with milk and foam.

Now Order Like a Pro

Don't worry anymore if the barista asks you which type of coffee you drink. Use this guideline to explore your preferences. 

• Strong Espresso

You can order a single shot with a 1:2 ratio of espresso. It’s ideal if you want a more concentrated, bolder flavor with less volume.

• Richer Coffee 

Order a double shot with a 1:2 to 1:2.5 ratio. It’s great if you prefer a fuller-bodied espresso that balances well with milk or water.

• Latte

If you want a latte, most cafés will use a double shot by default. However, you can ask for a single shot if you prefer a milder coffee-to-milk ratio.

• Cappuccino

It is usually standard to use a double shot, but if you want a smaller, lighter cup, you can ask for a single shot.

• Cold Brew 

If you prefer cold brew, you’ll likely want a 1:4 ratio of coffee to water for a strong concentrate. You can dilute it to your liking.

Final Thoughts

Now you can order your desired coffee confidently. We understand that as the coffee ratio is higher, you have a stronger coffee. For example, the coffee ratio of 1:15 is stronger than the 1:17 ratio. Moreover, a single espresso is more concentrated because it uses less water. If you still have any questions about coffee and coffee gadgets, feel free to contact us on Lepresso.