Angled shot of friends holding different cups of espresso-based coffee drinks at Joel’s Place

Spill the Beans: Know Your Espresso-Based Coffee

July 3, 2025Vhea Paras

They say your coffee order says something about you (it’s your personality in a cup!) and your day (a bold Americano feels right just before a big pitch, doesn't it?)

Whether you've got a daily go-to order or still looking for your perfect cup, we list nine espresso-based coffees with their country of origin and flavor profiles. As a bonus, we recommend perfect treats from The Baker to pair them up with, and even included personality profiles—because let’s be honest, coffee is a whole vibe.


But first, what is espresso?

Espresso is a bold, concentrated brew that's made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans under high pressure. On its own, it's usually served as a rich and aromatic shot (or double shot), but mixed with other ingredients, it's the foundation of nearly every cafe favorite. Every espresso-based coffee drink starts with this powerful base. What comes next—milk, foam, water, or chocolate—defines your cup of joe. 

Each espresso-based drink carries a personality. Some are loud and bold, others quiet and comforting. Whether you're looking for something bold, balanced, or sweet, there’s a brew (and a bite!) that’s made for you.

Note: The exact percentages may vary slightly depending on the cafe style, drink size, and regional preparation methods.


Espresso-forward and bold

Sharp, bold, and built for those who love the punch of coffee. For purists, minimalists, and deep thinkers.

Infographic guide to espresso-based coffee drinks  at Joel’s Place featuring espresso-forward and bold coffee

Ristretto
Ratio Origin Flavor Profile

Personality

100% Espresso
(short shot)

Italy

Intense, rich, and bold

The Focused Leader

Try from The Barista: Espresso 

Best paired with: Classic Natilla Chocolate Cake or Food for the Gods Biscotti


Americano
Ratio Origin Flavor Profile

Personality

30% Espresso 
70% Hot Water

Italy

Light, mellow, and grounded

The Calm Strategist

Try from The Barista: Long Black or Iced Long Black

Best paired with: Pan De Coco or Pork Adobo Cronada


Lungo
Ratio Origin Flavor Profile

Personality

25% Espresso 
75% Water (longer shot)

Italy

Long finish, slightly bitter, and smooth

The Thoughtful Observer

Try from The Barista: Iced Espresso

Best paired with: Lamb Marsala Empanada or Beef Bourguignon Cronada

 

Specialty blends

Bold espresso meets creative extras. For the flavor-forward thinkers and stylish sippers.

Infographic guide to espresso-based coffee drinks at Joel’s Place featuring specialty blends coffee

Macchiato
Ratio Origin Flavor Profile

Personality

90% Espresso
10% Milk Foam

Italy

Bold with a soft finish

The Witty Charmer

Try from The Barista: Cortado

Best paired with: Caramel Cream Puff or Chocolate Cream Pie


Cortado
Ratio Origin Flavor Profile

Personality

50% Espresso
50% Steamed Milk

Spain

Smooth, strong, and  balanced

The Quiet Genius

Try from The Barista: Cortado 

Best paired with: Calamansi Pie or Rosemary Focaccia


Mocha
Ratio Origin Flavor Profile

Personality

33% Espresso
33% Steamed Milk
33% Chocolate

Yemen

Chocolatey, creamy, and dessert-like

The Creative Soul

Try from The Barista: Mocha or Iced Mocha 

Best paired with: Buko Pie with Streusel or Pepperoni Roll


Milky and smooth

Comforting, cozy, familiar. For the latte lovers and soft sippers who like their coffee with a side of calm.

Infographic guide to espresso-based coffee drinks at Joel’s Place featuring milky and smooth coffee

Cappuccino
Ratio Origin Flavor Profile

Personality

33% Espresso
33% Steamed Milk
33% Foam

Italy

Frothy, bold, and airy

The Optimist

Try from The Barista: Cappuccino

Best paired with: Pain Au Chocolat Croissant or Chicken Cronada


Latte
Ratio Origin Flavor Profile

Personality

20% Espresso
60% Steamed Milk
20% Foam

Italy

Mild, creamy, and smooth

The Peacekeeper

Try from The Barista: Latte or Iced Latte

Best paired with: Almond Croissant or Spanish Bread


Flat white
Ratio Origin Flavor Profile

Personality

30% Espresso
65% Steamed Milk
5% Microfoam

Australia and New Zealand

Rich, velvety, and balanced

The Aesthetic Thinker

Try from The Barista: Piccolo Latte 

Best paired with: Classic Madeleine or Chicken Pastel Pot Pie


Where every brew finds its bite

Whatever your mood, there’s a brew (and a bite) that fits. Grab your favorite espresso-based coffee from The Barista, pair it with pastries from The Baker, and start your day right at our bakery window!

Cover and in-article illustrations by Charisse Nabayo. 

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