You already know that tea is a big part of UK life. England has a well deserved reputation for obsessing over this beverage. But does that mean that you can’t keep up your coffee habit? Luckily, the short answer is you can absolutely enjoy coffee the British way with perhaps a few tweaks to your expectations.
Drip coffee is not really a thing
The drip filter coffee machine that is in most American houses has not made it into many British coffee drinking homes. If you’re at a restaurant or coffee shop, it’s probably going to be an espresso menu. Go for an Americano if you’re trying to get closer to a plain coffee experience.
Many Brits at home will use a cafetiere (French press), or have one of the Nespresso style coffee machines. If you’re addicted to your drip coffee, drip machines are slowly appearing in shops more often. With some diligence, you can find one eventually.
Instant coffee is much more popular
Another way that Brits will make coffee at home is using instant coffee. It’s significantly more popular in the UK than in the US, at least in my experience. To be fair, it’s also a lot less terrible than I expected it to be. Maybe not the best bet for a coffee snob, but give it a go if you’re in a pinch.
Half and Half does not exist (unless you make it)
This one is a pretty big adjustment if you’re used to adding creamer to your coffee. Grocery shops will sometimes carry American style liquid creamers like Coffee Mate. Aldi seems to be the most consistent with this.
If you want true half and half, you are going to have to make it yourself. Purchase double cream (similar to US heavy cream) and mix in equal parts with milk. Voila – half cream, half milk! For a more convenient solution, try buying single cream. It’s still a bit creamier than half and half, but a lot thinner than double cream.
British coffee culture is growing and looks very American
Coffee shops are fully available here. If you need a regular latte, mocha or Frappuccino purchase, it’s not going to be hard to keep that up. Starbucks has more competitors here, but tastes in espresso drinks are very similar to those found in the US.
If whole bean coffee is a must for you, you can definitely seek out a good roaster. I found Flavour Art Coffee through our local town market and they ship across the UK. Their luxury hot chocolate is also pretty life changing.
Don’t rule out tea
Just because you favor drinking coffee is no reason to turn your nose up at a perfectly brewed British cup of tea. This is a very “when in Rome” argument, but honestly don’t refuse a cup of proper tea just to maintain your American coffee habit. You might just find your caffeine delivery method can expand to new horizons!
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