10 Best Instant Coffees 2025 in the United States

NESCAFÉ CLÁSICO Dark Roast Instant Coffee is designed for those who enjoy a strong, bold cup with the convenience of instant preparation. Made from 100% real coffee beans and responsibly sourced, it delivers a rich, full-bodied dark roast flavor that many coffee lovers appreciate. The dark roast level means you get a robust taste with a noticeable caffeine kick, suitable for mornings or when you need an energy boost.

It comes in a 10.5-ounce jar, packed twice in the set, providing up to around 150 servings per jar, making it a practical choice for regular coffee drinkers. The instant form ensures quick and easy preparation—just add hot water and stir—ideal for busy routines or when you don’t have access to brewing equipment. On the downside, as with most instant coffees, it won’t fully match the complex flavor profile of freshly ground and brewed coffee for those seeking a gourmet experience.

The packaging is a jar, which is practical but less portable compared to sachets or smaller packs if you want coffee on the go. NESCAFÉ’s strong brand reputation and consistent quality make this product a reliable option for anyone wanting a straightforward, dark roast instant coffee.

The Starbucks Premium Instant Coffee, Medium Roast offers a convenient and quality coffee experience. Made from 100% Arabica beans, it delivers the same high-quality brew found in Starbucks cafés. This instant coffee is praised for its smooth and nutty flavor, with balanced notes of chocolate and nuts, making it an enjoyable choice for medium roast coffee lovers. The flexibility to adjust the coffee strength to your preference is a nice touch, catering to individual tastes easily.

Solubility is excellent, ensuring a smooth cup of coffee with minimal effort—just add hot water, stir, and enjoy. The recyclable tin packaging is an environmentally friendly bonus, adding to its appeal for eco-conscious consumers. However, one possible downside is that it might be slightly pricier compared to other instant coffee brands, given the Starbucks name. Additionally, those who prefer a strong, bold flavor might find this medium roast a bit too mild.

The caffeine content is standard, so it should suffice for most coffee drinkers looking for a morning or afternoon pick-me-up. Starbucks’ strong brand reputation further assures the quality and taste of this product. This instant coffee is best suited for those who want a quick, high-quality coffee with a familiar Starbucks flavor, particularly if they appreciate a medium roast with smooth, nutty undertones.

Starbucks VIA Instant Coffee, specifically the Pike Place Roast, offers a convenient and flavorful option for coffee lovers who appreciate quality. This medium roast is made from 100% Arabica beans, delivering a smooth blend with delightful hints of chocolate and toasted nuts. The instant coffee packets make it easy to brew a cup without the need for complicated equipment, which is ideal for busy mornings or travel.

One of the standout features of this product is its taste, as Starbucks maintains high standards in sourcing and roasting their beans, ensuring freshness in every cup. Plus, the ethical sourcing practices highlight a commitment to responsible coffee procurement, which can appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

Packaging comes in a large box with 50 packets, which is great for frequent drinkers but may not suit occasional users who don't want to commit to such a large quantity.