coffee journal

Viral Coffee Trends

Overhead image of 5 different coffee drinks

Whether you’re an avid social media user or employ a more analog approach to daily life, trends are an influential part of the everyday , even for those who may feel separate from or unaffected by what’s “trendy.” From a morning cup of coffee to architectural styles, articles of clothing, music, and everything in-between, trends offer the space in which to collaborate with others with one’s own personal twist . No two people wear clothes the same way and no two people enjoy coffee the same way, and this has been something we’ve been excited to provide more in-depth details for: trends and where they come from, specifically in the coffee industry.


Keep reading to uncover the origins behind some of the most popular coffee trends that our team has seen and researched over recent years - including DJ popups, mocktails, viral drinks made to impress, and more!*

Non-Alcoholic Cocktails

Commonly referred to as "mocktails," non-alcoholic cocktails has become increasingly popular menu items at various restaurants, bars, and cafes for years. These types of beverages are typically creative takes on popular cocktails, with well-known variations including non-alcoholic alternatives for whiskey, vodka, gin, and tequila, but can also include wellness-centered beverages that include additional benefits like probiotics.


The purpose of non-alcoholic cocktails is primarily to provide a tasty beverage that anyone can enjoy at any time, becoming popular choices for those who want to enjoy a zero-proof beverage but still take part in trying unique concoctions. Commonly enjoyed in a social environment that also includes alcohol-based cocktails, mocktails are crafted to fit right into these atmospheres, becoming undetectable with the typical cocktail accouterments like citrus slices, herbs, and stylized glasses.

Coconut Americano

The coconut americano has captured the attention of coffee enthusiasts and health-conscious drinkers alike, emerging as a viral sensation across TikTok and Instagram. This innovative beverage transforms the traditional americano by substituting standard water with chilled coconut water. When topped with espresso, the resulting creation is a drink that balances coffee's chocolatey boldness with coconut water's subtle sweetness and mineral notes.


One instance of where this trend began its claim to fame is NYC's Rhythm Zero , where the drink is known as the "Coco Americana" and features premium Strange Water coconut water. The beverage's silky texture - a result of foamy, frothed coconut water - has generated widespread social media enthusiasm, with endless praises for its unique flavor profile.


At Partners Coffee, we couldn't resist putting our own spin on this viral trend , with our Education Team employing signature brewing expertise to share the coconut americano with our community in a unique way.


The drink's accessibility adds to its popularity - coffee lovers can easily create their own take on the coconut americano at home using various brewing methods, from instant coffee to traditional espresso-brewing gear like moka pots. In summary, this trending fusion of coffee and coconut presents an opportunity to elevate one’s routine with minimal effort and maximum refreshment.

Dubai Chocolate Latte

A luxurious beverage inspired by the viral "Dubai chocolate bar,” the Dubai chocolate latte has dominated numerous social media feeds. This indulgent drink recreates the beloved candy's signature blend of pistachio cream, milk chocolate, and crispy kataifi   pastry (a traditional Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dessert made from thin strands of phyllo dough), typically building on an iced matcha or espresso base with pistachio sauce, white chocolate mocha, and rich chocolate cold foam.


The drink's success lies in its unique execution of blending bold coffee (or earthy matcha) with creamy pistachio richness and decadent chocolate.

Cracking Chocolate Shell Latte

Coffee and chocolate lovers are swooning over the cracking chocolate shell latte, the TikTok-made phenomenon that transforms an iced latte into a sensory experience. This viral trend centers on the chocolate-coated cup, made possible by melted chocolate that is layered on the interior of a clear cup and frozen. The prepared cup is then filled with the beverage’s components (ice, milk, espresso, etc.). The magic happens when the cup is gently squeezed, causing the chocolate shell to crack into shards that offer a satisfying chocolatey crunch.


Creating this drink at home is surprisingly simple: melt ¼ cup of chocolate chips with a teaspoon of coconut oil, swirl onto the interior of a clear plastic cup with a spoon or squeezebottle, freeze for 5-10 minutes, then fill with a beverage of choice (we recommend an iced latte or cold brew), and enjoy!


Whether chasing the ultimate TikTok moment or simply mixing up a daily caffeine fix, the cracking chocolate shell latte delivers a playful, indulgent spin on the classic iced latte that’s definitely worth cracking into.

Mushroom Coffee

Coffee and wellness enthusiasts have been buzzing about mushroom coffee for years, with one of the most popular recent trends involving a combination of traditional coffee with dried mushroom components, commonly from lion's mane, chaga, reishi, and cordyceps. Rather than tasting like mushrooms, mushroom coffees are typically described as having a nutty, earthy undertone and providing a calmer energy boost with half the caffeine of regular coffee.


Emerging science suggests these medicinal mushrooms may support immune health, reduce inflammation, and enhance cognitive clarity through adaptogenic effects, with small studies linking lion's mane to improved memory and cordyceps to better exercise tolerance. However, critics warn that many commercial versions contain minimal active mushroom extract and some health claims lack firm scientific support.


Despite mixed expert opinions, user testimonials report more balanced energy, better sleep, and sustained focus, making mushroom coffee especially popular among Millennials and Gen Z who value adaptogens and clean ingredients. This Instagram-worthy trend offers a sensory shift from traditional caffeine with potential cognitive and stress-management perks perfectly suited for the modern wellness-seeking consumer.

DJ Popups in Cafes

The DJ popup coffee shop trend is revolutionizing how we think about cafes, transforming specialty coffee spaces into vibrant daytime dance floors where premium brews meet carefully curated beats - all without a drop of alcohol .


Born in Los Angeles in late 2024, this movement has rapidly spread across cities like San Antonio, Dallas, San Francisco, and Orlando, creating inclusive spaces where house, disco, funk, and Latin rhythms fuel caffeine-powered energy.


We at Partners Coffee embraced this electrifying trend in March 2025 through our collaboration with Daybreaker - the renowned "wake up and dance" movement known for their sober morning gatherings. Their takeover of our Williamsburg café space delivered an unforgettable fusion of coffee, breathwork, and epic morning dance party energy centered on "dance, energy, intention, and joy," bringing new life to our space and creating a well-received community experience.


This phenomenon reflects the broader "soft clubbing" and "sober curious" movements, where younger generations prioritize meaningful connections, wellness, and accessible fun through daytime gatherings - demonstrating that the most memorable parties can begin with your morning brew and end long before you'd ever need a nightcap.

*Please note that any drinks, trends, and brands mentioned above are not expressly endorsed or sponsored by Partners Coffee and are simply included in this article based on research from our team.

Questions? 

Send us an email to help@partnerscoffee.com!

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