Espresso Tonic

WHAT IT IS

An espresso tonic is espresso poured over tonic water and ice. The quinine bitterness of the tonic and the bitterness of the espresso interact in a way that is either revelatory or unpleasant depending on your palate. Popular in Scandinavia and increasingly common at specialty shops globally.

HOW IT IS MADE

Ice is placed in a glass. Tonic water (quality tonic like Fever-Tree, not generic) is poured over the ice. A single or double espresso shot is poured on top, usually slowly to preserve layering. Let it settle briefly before drinking.

WHAT IT TASTES LIKE

Bitter, slightly floral from the quinine, refreshing from the carbonation, and intensely coffee-forward. Nothing else quite like it. The bitterness is the entire point. If you do not like bitter drinks, this is not for you.

WHEN TO ORDER IT

On a hot day when you want something cold and intensely coffee-forward. When you have already tried everything else on the menu. When you want to experience something genuinely different.

HOW TO ORDER IT

Say "espresso tonic." Ask what tonic water they use. Fever-Tree or Q Tonic are the right choices. Generic tonic is the wrong choice.

VARIATIONS

Cold brew tonic: cold brew over tonic for a less intense version. Iced Americano tonic: diluted with water before adding tonic.

CAFFEINE

About 63 to 125mg from the espresso. The tonic adds no caffeine.

According to Pulled Coffee data from 462,531 coffee shops worldwide, 15.9% of all coffee shops are classified as specialty — the type most likely to serve a proper Espresso Tonic. In cities like Vancouver (4,175 specialty shops) and London (3,621), your chances of finding a great one are significantly higher than the global average.

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