Espresso tonic: The most cooling summer coffee specialty

Espresso tonic: The most cooling summer coffee specialty

When the heatwave hits, the thought of a hot black coffee often becomes less appealing, but no one wants to give up caffeine. Luckily, the biggest specialty trend of recent years provides the perfect answer to this dilemma: the espresso tonic has arrived! This iconic tonic coffee combines the complexity of quality coffee with the sparkling freshness of carbonation.

tonic coffee

What is espresso tonic and why is everyone so crazy about it?

Coffee tonic is not just another passing fad, it is one of the greatest achievements of modern coffee culture. The idea is extremely simple, yet brilliant: the subtle bitterness and effervescence of tonic create a perfect balance with the natural fruity and sweet notes of coffee.

The layered look of a well-made espresso tonic is impressive in itself. The dark hazelnut-colored layer of coffee floating above the clear, ice-cold tonic at the bottom of the glass is the hallmark of the perfect summer drink.

The secret to the perfect coffee tonic: Ingredients and preparation

Many people try to make this drink in their home kitchen, but success lies in the details. It doesn't matter what kind of coffee and tonic we use. The basis of tonic coffee is always a freshly pulled espresso from light or medium roasted, high-quality Arabica coffee beans. Fruitier, citrusier versions are best suited to the specific character of tonic.

The classic basic recipe involves filling a tall glass with ice and pouring about 1.5 dl of premium tonic water over it. Then, carefully pour the freshly brewed double shot of coffee directly onto the ice cubes. This creates a beautiful, two-layered consistency that, when mixed, merges into a creamy, bubbly drink. Some people swear by cold brew coffee, but freshly tapped hot espresso releases much more intense aromas as soon as it comes into contact with the ice.

espresso tonic

Taste the perfect espresso tonic at Smúz!

Although it seems simple to make, achieving the right flavor harmony and the perfect crema layer requires serious expertise. An improperly selected coffee can make the drink too acidic or unpleasantly bitter. Therefore, if you want to experience this refreshing experience in its finest form, the safest choice is to entrust yourself to the experts!

Visit Smúz and enjoy this iconic refreshing drink with one of the most beautiful panoramas of Budapest in the background! Smúz's baristas prepare the silkiest espresso tonic from only the finest domestically roasted coffees, which is guaranteed to brighten up even the hottest summer day. 

Sit out on the terrace, enjoy the view of the Parliament, and treat yourself to an ice-cold specialty!