Tips for Ordering Coffee in Brazil - with Video

I was in Brazil enjoying a fantastic cappuccino with crushed peanuts over it when I thought that it would be fun to write a post about the differences in the coffee drinks in Brazil and in the US.

For starters, the sizes are very different. A small coffee comes in an espresso size cup whether you ordered regular coffee, cappuccino, or mocha. A small coffee is about 2 or 3 ounces. The medium coffee will be about 8 ounces, and a large cup will be around 12 ounces. For comparison, a small coffee at Starbucks is about the size of a large coffee in Brazil.

In addition, coffee drinks can be very different here and there, albeit having the same names. Cappuccinos can come with a variety of flavors: some come with peanut flour over it (my personal favorite), others with orange peel, and yet others with lemon syrup; some cappuccinos have chocolate and most have cinnamon tossed over. I love when they come with a cinnamon stick in the cup. Mochas can vary a lot as well, and having chocolate in it is not guaranteed. Moral of the story: Ask what is in your coffee drink before you order it. 

In Brazil, the concept of iced coffee is different too. In fact, as far as I know there is no iced coffee and people tend to make funny faces when you mention it. Love iced coffee? No problem: You can choose from a selection of coffee shakes. They are thick, creamy, and truly decadent.

To order whipped cream, ask for chantilly.

You are all set :) Enjoy your drink! I am sure you can make good use of your caffeine while you explore the Brazilian streets.