Coffee Cocktails That Standout In The London Coffee festival 2018

The London Coffee Festival 2018 was not just about espresso and latte art. One of the biggest highlights was the fusion of coffee and cocktails, where baristas and bartenders pushed creativity to another level. From classic espresso martinis to experimental tropical blends, the festival proved that coffee can go far beyond the cup.

1. The Coconut Cold Brew Cocktail

One of the most creative drinks at the festival was a frozen coconut based coffee cocktail developed by a Soho House bar manager. It combined cold brew coffee with coconut cream, pineapple juice, cocoa nibs, and rum.

Why it stood out

This drink broke the traditional coffee flavor profile. Instead of bitterness, it delivered a tropical, refreshing taste with layered sweetness and depth.

Taste experience

Smooth, slightly sweet, and rich with a subtle kick from rum. It felt more like a dessert cocktail than a standard coffee drink.

2. Iced Cafe Francais by Grind

Grind brought a more refined and indulgent option with its Iced Cafe Francais. This cocktail mixed espresso, cream, vodka, and sugar into a smooth, chilled drink.

Why it stood out

It was a twist on the classic espresso martini but with a creamier texture, making it more accessible and enjoyable for a wider audience.

Taste experience

Rich, velvety, and slightly sweet, similar to a boozy coffee ice cream.

3. Classic Espresso Martini

The espresso martini remained a central attraction at the festival, especially during the Espresso Martini Party, which is a signature event every year.

Why it stood out

Despite all the innovation, this classic still dominated. It showed that strong fundamentals in coffee cocktails never go out of style.

Taste experience

Bold espresso flavor balanced with vodka and coffee liqueur, delivering both energy and intensity.

4. Flat White Martini

A creative variation of the espresso martini, the flat white martini added a smoother and creamier texture inspired by the popular flat white coffee.

Why it stood out

It blended café culture with cocktail craftsmanship, creating something familiar yet new.

Taste experience

Less sharp than a traditional espresso martini, with a softer and more balanced profile.

5. Cold Brew Based Signature Cocktails

Many brands at the festival experimented with cold brew as a base for cocktails. Cold brew’s lower acidity made it ideal for mixing with spirits and syrups.

Why it stood out

Cold brew allowed for more flexibility in flavor combinations, from fruity to chocolatey profiles. The smoothness made these drinks easy to enjoy even for non coffee drinkers.

Taste experience

Clean, mellow, and highly adaptable depending on the ingredients used.

The Rise of Coffee Cocktails

The festival highlighted how coffee and alcohol are becoming a powerful combination in modern café culture. Workshops and presentations even explored the history and innovation behind coffee cocktails, showing how the trend continues to grow.

Conclusion

The London Coffee Festival 2018 proved that coffee is no longer limited to traditional brewing methods. From tropical cold brew cocktails to creamy espresso martinis, the event showcased a new side of coffee culture. These standout drinks were not just beverages, they were experiences that blended creativity, flavor, and presentation into something unforgettable.