Best practices for an excellent restaurant coffee experience

"There is nothing worse than a bad coffee after an excellent meal."

In the competitive UK hospitality landscape, the quality of the restaurant coffee experience can make a lasting impression on guests. Coffee is no longer just a post-meal option, coffee has become a core part of customer expectations. With rising standards shaped by the coffee shop culture as well as high tech coffee solutions at home - restaurants must rethink how coffee is integrated into their service offering so their coffee standard competes with all occasions.

Discover more in the following article!

The growing importance of restaurant coffee

Today’s diners expect restaurant coffee to match the quality and consistency of what they find in specialty cafes. Research shows that over half of casual dining customers believe that high-quality coffee significantly enhances their dining experience, and a third are not fully satisfied with the coffee currently offered. In a context where food and drink experiences are seen as holistic, coffee plays a crucial role in shaping overall satisfaction.

Choosing the right supplier: quality, variety, and strategic value

Coffee supply in restaurants is a strategic choice. A reliable supplier should offer:

• A curated range of beans suitable for different preparations
• Seasonal options that align with shifting customer tastes
• Training and operational support for staff
• Recognisable brand 

A strong partnership with well-established coffee brands brings added credibility and reassurance for guests, especially those who associate specific names with quality and consistency.

Moreover, the right supplier can help elevate the entire coffee experience by ensuring consistency across different dayparts and advising on trending formats such as iced coffees, dairy alternatives or coffee cocktails. These insights not only help maintain a dynamic, appealing offer but also support internal team development and guest engagement.

This comprehensive approach to supply transforms coffee from a simple product into a curated experience—one that reflects the brand values of the restaurant and meets the rising expectations of today's consumers.

Quality as a business investment

Investing in premium coffee pays dividends. High-quality beans offer better yield, reduce waste, and enable higher per-cup margins. They also contribute to brand positioning: a well-executed coffee offering allows restaurants to charge more while enhancing value perception. Satisfied customers become brand advocates, recommending venues that treat coffee as a priority.

Reflecting consumer trends on the menu

A static coffee menu no longer meets the evolving expectations of UK diners. Trends show growing demand for:

• Iced and cold brew options, particularly among younger consumers
• Plant-based milk alternatives
• Indulgent formats that pair coffee with mini desserts or snacks
• Functional coffees featuring health-boosting ingredients
• Coffee cocktails (did you know illy was the chosen coffee in the very first espresso martini developed in London in the 80s?)

Flexibility and innovation are key. Menus should be updated seasonally to keep the offer relevant and appealing across multiple occasions.

Enhancing the restaurant coffee experience

The quality of the coffee itself must be matched by the experience around it. Guests notice details like presentation, crockery, latte art and the comfort of the space where they enjoy their drink. Creating a dedicated coffee area or improving ambiance can encourage longer stays and additional orders.

Staff also play a critical role. Knowledgeable servers who are confident in recommending coffee pairings or explaining origin stories can turn a simple order into a memorable moment.

Training: the human element of quality

Staff training is often the missing link in delivering excellent restaurant coffee. Consistency in preparation, understanding different brewing methods, and confidence in explaining the coffee menu all stem from effective training.

Training should cover technical skills, such as grinding, extraction, milk steaming and latte art, but also communication techniques. Staff who are able to share details about origin, flavour notes and ideal pairings help create a richer experience for guests.

Regular refreshers and supplier-led workshops can also reinforce standards and boost morale.

Investing in people means investing in quality—and that’s something customers will taste.

In a market where guests are increasingly selective, ensuring every cup of coffee is memorable can significantly enhance reputation and repeat visits. The best restaurants treat coffee not just as a drink, but as an experience worthy of the same attention as their food.

To support this ambition, illy offers tailored coffee solutions designed specifically for the hospitality sector. With a legacy of excellence, a commitment to sustainability, and a complete portfolio of high-quality blends and equipment, illy helps elevate the coffee experience across all touchpoints.

If you're ready to rethink your coffee offer and deliver the quality your guests expect, try our coffee with a free trial. Experience firsthand how a great coffee can transform your service.

Request your free trial today and start creating memorable coffee moments!