Cappuccino tops the charts as nation’s favourite coffee - New data reveals South Africa’s best-selling Starbucks coffees

New Starbucks sales data reveals South Africa’s favourite coffees, with results showing a clear preference for simple, timeless classics.  

It seems that when it comes to everyday luxuries, less is more - with refined, simple pleasures leading the charge in South Africa’s coffee culture.

With Cappuccino coming out on top, followed by Latte and Caramel Macchiato, the rankings are based on total product quantity sold in the past year*, offering a clear snapshot of how coffee lovers in South Africa prefer their daily brew. Espresso-based drinks also remain fan-favourites for their bold flavour and elegant simplicity, continuing to win over coffee lovers nationwide.

 South Africa’s Top Five Starbucks Coffees

1. Cappuccino –A balanced mix of espresso, steamed milk, and foam, offering a rich and frothy texture.
2. Latte – A smooth blend of espresso and steamed milk.
3. Caramel Macchiato - Freshly steamed milk with vanilla-flavoured syrup, marked with espresso and finished with caramel sauce.
4. Americano – A classic espresso topped with hot water for a long, smooth coffee with a lighter body.
5. Mocha – Espresso combined with mocha syrup and steamed milk.

The results underscore what Starbucks customers in South Africa value most: quality, craftsmanship, and a delicious cup that fits seamlessly into their daily routines and rituals.

Starbucks proudly sources 100% arabica coffee from more than 450,000 farmers in 30 markets along “The Coffee Belt” in Latin America, Asia Pacific and Africa. The coffee is then handcrafted by Starbucks baristas to ensure every cup reflects Starbucks commitment to excellent coffee.

This month’s Coffee Day, a global celebration, was established by the International Coffee Organisation to honour the people and communities behind every cup, from bean to brew. In recognition of this, Starbucks has extended the spirit of celebration throughout October with its Global Month of Coffee, spotlighting the beverage, the craft, and the baristas who make each cup special.

“At Starbucks, every is a coffee day! We don’t believe that celebrations should be limited to one day, or even one month. We know our customers feel the same way, and every cup of their favourite brew is a moment to enjoy and value the special craft that goes into making it. While Starbucks is renowned for its beverage innovation – such as Pumpkin Spice Latte – this data shows that customers in South Africa still see Starbucks as leading in core coffee classics, done well. The results reveal a South African coffee culture focussed on premium quality and craftmanship, with Starbucks customers regularly returning to stores for timeless espresso-based drinks, made with premium ingredients and handcrafted by expert baristas,” says Ishan Natalie - Operations Services, Category and Coffee Excellence Lead at Starbucks South Africa.

Throughout October, Starbucks stores across South Africa are celebrating Global Month of Coffee with opportunities for customers to learn more about the craft behind their favourite brews, and perhaps even discover a new one.