Coffee shops are not just a place for a caffeine fix.
It’s also a place where you can be productive, get inspiration and socialize over a cup of coffee. Indeed, a coffee shop is one of the best places in the world.
With that, it’s no surprise that coffee shops are becoming more and more popular as many people find comfort in these places.
If you’re someone who also likes to be in a coffee shop, you might wonder, what are the most popular coffee shops in the world that you could visit?
Search no more because, in this article, we listed the most popular coffee chains in the world.
Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a cozy spot to relax, you’re sure to find something to love on this list of the 15 most popular coffee shops in the world.
So without further ado, here are the most popular and the best coffee shops that are worth visiting:
15 most popular coffee chains in the world
Firstly! Here’s a table listing the 15 most popular coffee shops in the world:
| Rank | Coffee Shop | Headquarters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Starbucks | Seattle, USA |
| 2 | Costa Coffee | Dunstable, UK |
| 3 | Dunkin’ | Canton, USA |
| 4 | Tim Hortons | Toronto, Canada |
| 5 | McCafé | Oak Brook, USA |
| 6 | Peet’s Coffee | Emeryville, USA |
| 7 | Caribou Coffee | Brooklyn Center, USA |
| 8 | Coffee Bean & Tea | Los Angeles, USA |
| 9 | Blue Bottle Coffee Company | Oakland, USA |
| 10 | Caffè Nero | London, UK |
| 11 | Lavazza | Turin, Italy |
| 12 | Stumptown Coffee Roasters | Portland, USA |
| 13 | Bonanza Coffee Roasters | Berlin, Germany |
| 14 | Intelligentsia Coffee | Chicago, USA |
| 15 | Dutch Bros Coffee | Grants Pass, USA |
Please note that the popularity of coffee chains can vary over time and may depend on factors such as regional preferences and market conditions. This list represents a snapshot of the popular coffee chains as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021.
1. Starbucks
Everyone would agree that Starbucks is the world’s most popular and successful coffee shop.
With over 37,000 stores in 80 countries, Starbucks is the largest coffee chain in the coffee industry.
The reason behind Starbucks’ success comes from a number of factors.
Starbucks has a strong brand identity.
The iconic green with a siren logo is recognizable by almost everyone worldwide.
It can be seen not just in Starbucks stores but almost everywhere because of Starbucks merchandise.
Starbucks also has a robust global presence, as mentioned above, and they’re famous for the company’s commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing.
Starbucks also has a good reputation for providing quality coffee and beverages anywhere in the world.
Their staff and baristas are well-trained to provide you with the best coffee you could ever have.
Many people also like staying, working, socializing, talking over a business, and more, inside Starbucks while having coffee.
This is because Starbucks stores have a perfect ambiance. The interior is classy, elegant, and clean.
One thing you could notice when entering a Starbucks is the smell of coffee beans everywhere.
Next will be the cold yet welcoming ambiance inside, the simple and minimalist menu list, as well as the comfortable seat inside the cafe.
There will also be classical music that you can enjoy while being productive.
All of those, as well as the things that weren’t mentioned in this article, are the reason behind Starbucks’ success and why people keep returning to this coffee shop for more.
Now, if Starbucks sounds like your cup of tea, then you might want to try their best drinks such as:
- Pumpkin Spice Latte
- Coconut Milk Latte
- Caramel Frappuccino
- Pink Drink
- Green Tea Latte
2. Costa Coffee
Costa Coffee is next on our list. This multinational coffeehouse company was established in 1971 in London.
It’s well-known for its high-quality coffee and welcoming atmosphere. This company makes its customers feel at ease and at home.
They also provide free Wi-Fi so that you can work inside.
Another reason for its popularity is the wide range of coffee blends and flavors.
They serve everything from classic espresso drinks to other exotic coffee drinks.
Like Starbucks, Costa Coffee doesn’t limit itself to selling coffee but also different snacks such as sandwiches, pastries, and cakes.
Costa Coffee also has a strong global presence.
Currently, there are 4,000 Costa Coffee shops across London, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, and they are constantly expanding.
So you can find a Costa Coffee shop wherever you go in those countries.
Some of their best coffees are:
- Peach Ice Tea
- Strawberry Tea Infusion
- Coffee Frostino
- Chai Latte
- Cappuccino
3. Dunkin’ Donuts
Dunkin’ Donuts has been around since 1950. It was founded in Massachusetts, USA, but as a part of its road to success, the company expanded to other States around America.
Dunkin’ Donuts is also really determined to increase its global presence, so it stepped outside America, and as of now, they have more than 11,000 stores across 36 countries.
Dunkin’ Donuts’ popularity is now undeniable.
But what else made this company famous? Aside from its global presence, Dunkin’ Donuts’ products and services are also commendable.
This doughnut company sells over 60 different types of doughnuts, including classic flavors such as glazed, powdered sugar, and Boston Kreme, as well as more unique options like jelly-filled and maple-glazed.
They also offer specialty coffee and specialty drinks like the Dunkaccino.
Aside from doughnuts, this company also sells a variety of hot and cold drinks.
What most people like about Dunkin’ Donuts is that they’re very friendly and welcoming. They had a good reputation for providing friendly and efficient customer service.
Dunkin’ coffees offer a quick boost of energy which is even better when combined with one of their doughnuts.
It was a very excellent experience to have.
If you’re planning to visit Dunkin’ Donuts, you might want to try some of their best-sellers like:
- Dunkin’ Classic Coffee
- Dunkin’ Caramel Macchiato Coffee
- Dunkin’ Birthday cake coolatta
- Dunkin’ Hazelnut Iced Coffee
- Captain Crunch Coolata
4. Tim Hortons
Tim Hortons offers a wide variety of coffee blends and flavors.
So if you’re craving classic hot coffees or iced coffees, whether it is a latte, cappuccino, espresso, or even a cold brew coffee, you can have it there.
Their doughnuts and other baked goods are also worth trying!
Tim Hortons, a Canadian icon, should also be on our list.
This multinational fast-food restaurant is also known for its coffee and doughnuts.
It has been around since 1964 and has 4,000 locations around the world.
One of the best things that contributed to the popularity of Tim Hortons, aside from the food and beverages they’re offering, is the casual and inviting atmosphere inside their restaurant.
It has very comfortable seating and a community feel.
The rusty and cozy makes the store very relaxing and enjoyable. It’s a really great place to enjoy your cup of coffee while working or with friends.
The staff is also worth mentioning. They’re friendly, helpful, and approachable, adding to a worthy coffee experience.
No wonder people come back for more that makes it popular.
Some of their best-sellers are:
- Iced Cappuccino
- Latte
- Original Blend Double
- Caramel Latte Supreme
- Mocha latte
5. McCafe (International)
McCafe is another successful and popular coffee shop chain in the world. This shop is a subsidiary of the popular McDonald’s, contributing significantly to its success.
Mcdonalds’ is an international company that has a lot of branches, locations, and franchises all over the world. The popularity of McDonald’s also brought popularity to McCafe.
But that doesn’t mean it’s the only reason why this coffeehouse-style chain is popular.
McCafe, just like the other coffee shops we’ve talked about, offers a wide range of coffee blends and flavors, and the quality of each coffee really delivers!
Since McCafe is located inside McDonald’s, it will be easier and more convenient.
You can also order other foods from McDonald’s to combine with your coffee.
Their offering is also very affordable, so if you’re on a tight budget, McCafe is really a good option.
Because of its affordable yet worthy products, many people have grown to love it, which is why its stores are commonly crowded.
Still, the atmosphere in the McCafe store is comfortable. It has a very modern style, sleek, warm, and inviting.
It was bright, clean, and well-maintained.
Here are the must-try coffees from McCafe:
- Iced Coffee
- Latte
- Americano
- Iced French Vanilla Coffee
- Iced Caramel Coffee
6. Peet’s Coffee
Peet’s Coffee is an American specialty coffee roaster and retailer founded in 1966.
It’s known for its high-quality coffee beans, which they sourced directly from farmers to ensure their quality and sustainability.
They are also known for their unique roasting techniques.
It doesn’t just sell coffee beans and coffee equipment.
They also have a coffee shop where you can buy coffee beverages that you can enjoy along with their comfortable seat, warm lighting, wood finishes, and rustic aesthetic, which creates a cozy and inviting ambiance.
Their coffees are expertly prepared by their well-trained baristas.
They offer a variety of coffee drinks, so you have many options when you visit their shop.
This coffee company is eager to provide the best coffee drink at the best and most comfortable place for their customers.
Some of Peet’s Coffee’s best sellers are:
- Cold Brew Fog
- Nitro Cold Brew
- Iced Lavender Macha Latte
- Iced Horchata Latte
- Caffe Latte
7. Caribou Coffee Company
Caribou Coffee is a premium coffee house founded in Minnesota, USA, in 1992.
This coffee house features high-quality beverages and food that you’ll surely enjoy.
Since its inception, Caribou Coffee has been eager to provide its customers with a great coffee experience, so they make sure that the beans they’re using are of the highest quality, which they searched for from all over the world.
That’s one of the reasons for its popularity.
Another reason that made Caribou Coffee popular is that it’s a recipient of the Rainforest Alliance award, an award granted to those who meet rigorous environmental, social, and economic sustainability standards.
Caribou Coffee has always been committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing of its beans which is why it received this award.
You’ll surely enjoy visiting Caribou coffee, knowing it has excellent coffee and a good reputation.
The ambiance inside their shops is also welcoming, warm, and cozy.
Aside from coffee, they also offer pastries and sandwiches, making it a good destination for a quick breakfast.
Caribou Coffee Best sellers:
- Hot Chocolate Cold Press With Caramel
- Hot Apple Blast
- Caramel Brownie Coffee-Less Cooler
- Mango Orange Key Lime Tropical Green Tea Smoothie
- Silly Soda
8. Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, sometimes called “Coffee Bean,” to make it shorter, is a coffee and tea company founded in 1963.
It was first located in California, USA, but as time passed, it expanded to other states and worldwide.
Overall, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has over 1000 stores in 31 countries worldwide.
This company has become known and popular because of its unique-tasting beverages made with high-quality single-origin coffees and loose-leaf teas.
They searched and sourced only the top 1 Arabica beans in the world to deliver the best-tasting coffee they could offer.
Aside from coffee and tea, they also sell a variety of freshly roasted coffee, whole-leaf teas, pastries, and baked goods.
And they sell their own coffee specialty!
Staying inside their shop will bring you the best coffee experience with lounge comfort, a luxurious interior and design, a comfortable seat, and free Wi-Fi.
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has a lot of positive reviews online.
A lot of people have a really satisfying experience in it, making it one of the best coffee shops in the world.
Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf must-try coffees:
- Vanilla Latte
- Cookies and Cream Iced Blended
- Caramel Coconut Latte
- Ultimate Mocha
- Caramel Ice Blended
9. Blue Bottle Coffee Company
The Blue Bottle Coffee Company is a coffee roaster and retailer that has been around since 2002.
They currently operate more than 100 stores across Asia and the USA.
The Blue Bottle Coffee Company, like the other coffee chains we mentioned above, is known for sourcing, roasting, and brewing high-quality coffee beans.
Many people enjoy the quality of their coffees, and you might too if you try one of them.
They offer a variety of coffee drinks, including espresso-based drinks, pour-over coffee, cold brew coffee, and more.
And, of course, there are also pastries, sandwiches, and baked goods that you can pair up with your delicious coffee.
Talking about the ambiance and feel inside Blue Bottle Coffee, it’s pure aesthetics.
The style is minimalist and light. It was lovely, relaxing, and clean.
If you think you like Blue Bottle Company and you want to try it, here are their best coffee drinks that you should try:
- Matcha Latte
- Hojicha Latte
- Cappuccino
- Caffe Latte
- New Orleans Style
10. Caffe Nero
Cafe Nero is one of the favorite coffee shops of many. It was initially founded in London.
This British coffee house was founded in 1997 and currently operates more than 1000 stores worldwide.
Cafe Nero is also committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing.
Their ingredients, as well as their coffee beans, are ethically sourced.
They also ensure that the beans they use are the best and high quality, as it affects the taste of the coffee they will serve.
As a result, many customers like the taste of their coffee without being bothered and conscious of the impact of their purchasing decisions on the environment and the lives of farmers and workers worldwide.
Cafe Nero also cares about the customer’s experience in their cafe. For that reason, they make sure to provide a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for the customers.
And they never failed to do that. Cafe Nero stores are cozy and intimate. The interior and designs are admirable.
Most of their stores, if not all, are decorated with artwork and plants, which makes the place really relaxing.
If you’re up for this ambiance and interior design, you’ll enjoy staying in their cafe!
11. Lavazza
Founded in Italy, Lavazza coffee shop has been around since 1895.
Lavazza is a coffee roaster and producer that sells its products to many grocery stores as it’s one of the largest coffee companies in the world.
More than just a coffee roaster and producer, Lavazza also has coffee shops in Italy and other cities around the world where customers can enjoy their espresso roast blends, for which they are best known, as well as other coffees on their menu.
What makes this coffee shop special is that they use it as a way for the company to showcase its coffee blends and the Italian coffee culture and lifestyle and to provide customers with an immersive coffee experience.
They also ensured that their customers felt at ease and enjoyed their visit, which they never failed to do because Lavazza coffee shop is very comfortable and welcoming.
They have a very appealing interior design that combines traditional and contemporary elements to create a one-of-a-kind and memorable atmosphere.
Here are some of their coffees that you might want to try:
- Cremespresso
- Espresso decaf
- Cafe Americano
- Italian hot chocolate with cream
- Flat White
12. Stumptown Coffee Roasters
Stumptown coffee roasters is another specialty coffee roaster and retailer based in Portland, Oregon.
It was established in 1999 to provide its customers with the best and high-quality coffee beans.
Stumptown Coffee Roasters is well-known for its famous “hair bender” roast. It’s a blend of coffee beans from various regions.
It has a balanced and smooth flavor with chocolate and citrus notes.
The success of this coffee shop, like that of most of us and most coffee companies in the industry, did not come easily.
They also faced numerous challenges as the number of competitors increased throughout the year and became stronger.
However, by constantly maintaining and improving their coffee quality, as well as successfully scaling their business while maintaining their values and commitment to sustainability, they have achieved the success they have today.
Later, they expanded beyond simply selling and supplying coffee beans to shops and restaurants.
They opened their own branded coffee shop, where many coffee enthusiasts enjoy their cups of coffee in a warm and relaxing environment.
Here are some of their best sellers:
- Cold brew coffee
- Nitro cold brew
- Cappuccino
- Latte
- Americano
13. Bonanza Coffee Roasters
Known for its specialty coffee, single-origin coffee, micro-lot coffee from around the world, and carefully crafted beans.
Bonanza coffee roasters are indeed one of the most popular coffee shops in the world.
It was founded in Berlin back in 2006 and continuously expanding and improving as of today.
This coffee roaster, like the other coffee shops we’ve discussed, also does more than sell its roasted coffee beans.
But also has a coffee of its own.
Customers would be able to taste their coffee and blends before deciding to buy coffee beans from them, which is what most people do after tasting their coffee.
They are known for high-quality sourcing coffee and roasting it to perfection to bring out the best flavor and characteristics.
If you want to try their coffee, you can visit one of their coffee shops in cities such as Berlin, the Czech Republic, South Korea, and others.
You will undoubtedly appreciate their minimalist interior design, which focuses on showcasing their coffee and the coffee roasting process.
Some of Bonanza coffee roasters’ popular coffee drinks include:
- Bonanza’s Flat White
- Bonanza’s Cappuccino
- Filter Coffee
- Bonanza’s Latte
- Bonanza’s Espresso
14. Intelligentsia Coffee
Intelligentsia is a well-known coffee brand that sells its own coffee to the market and restaurants.
They’re focused on bringing the best flavors out of those coffee beans.
They’re also keen to provide the best and high-quality coffee beans that their customers will enjoy.
They offer a wide range of single-origin coffees, blends, and espresso options.
Intelligentsia has coffee shops in several cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York City.
There, many coffee lovers visit to taste their coffee and enjoy the comfort inside their shop, which has a modern and simple interior, concrete floor, and simple furnishings.
What makes this coffee shop different from some coffee chains we already talked about is its value in education.
Intelligentsia provides a training program for customers and coffee industry professionals.
They provide classes and workshops on topics such as brewing methods and coffee tasting, as well as essential information and the art and science of coffee.
A lot of people have benefited from this program, making Intelligentsia Coffee one of the best coffee shops in the world.
If you’re planning to visit Intelligentsia coffee shop, here are some drinks you can try:
- Black Cat Espresso
- Cortado
- Pour-over coffee
- Cold brew
- Turmeric ginger latte
15. Dutch Bros Coffee
Last on our list, but definitely not the least, is the Dutch Bros coffee. This coffee company was founded in Oregon, USA, back in 1992.
Dutch Bros Coffee is well-known for being the largest drive-thru coffee chain in the United States.
Since its inception, it has had a goal of providing excellent customer service, a unique coffee experience, and also making a positive impact on the community.
Dutch Bros Coffee currently has over 300 locations in seven states.
Because it provides drive-through services, it has become the go-to location for people who are in a hurry and do not have time to get out of their car to get some coffee.
It is also possible if you have a lot of time to visit and experience their shop.
There they sell coffees, smoothies, teas, energy drinks, and other snacks and pastries that you can enjoy along with your coffee.
Here are 5 of the best Dutch Bros drinks:
- Golden Eagle
- Picture Perfect Freeze
- Annihilator
- Kicker
- Strawberry and Pineapple
Conclusion
So those are the world’s top 15 best coffee shops.
With so many to choose from, it can be not easy to decide which one to visit, but these 15 best coffee shops are a great place to start for anyone looking to broaden their coffee horizons.
These will undoubtedly deliver and impress you by offering the highest quality coffee and a fantastic coffee experience inside their shop.
You’ll enjoy any of those shops whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a new place to be productive and hang out with your friends.
So add it to your bucket list and stay caffeinated!
FAQs
What is the world’s most popular coffee shop?
The world’s most popular coffee shop is Starbucks which has over 30,000 stores in 80 countries worldwide!
What is the most popular coffee ordered?
The most commonly ordered coffee is black coffee. It’s because this plain black coffee is so simple, but it allows the authentic flavor of coffee to shine through, which is what the majority of its buyers enjoy. Besides that, this coffee is widely available in all coffee shops and is not difficult to find or recreate at home.
Which country is No 1 in coffee?
The country that is No 1 in coffee is Brazil. It’s because Brazil is the largest producer of coffee in the world. Brazil has a favorable climate and soil conditions, which is why it’s a perfect location for coffee production; hence, many coffee companies source coffee from them.