How Romanians Drink Coffee by Generation: From Classic Espresso to Iced Drinks and Non-Alcoholic Mocktails

The way Romanians consume coffee and other beverages has undergone a significant transformation, with generational differences becoming increasingly apparent. Young people in Generation Z favor cold, customized, and "Instagrammable" drinks, while Millennials pursue premium experiences, and older consumers remain loyal to classic coffee preparations.

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For many Romanians, coffee is no longer just a source of energy at the beginning of the day. Almost 45% of consumers say they drink coffee primarily for pleasure, not out of a need to wake up or increase their energy levels.

For many Romanians, coffee is no longer just a morning energy source. A market study on coffee consumption in Romania reveals how consumer habits are changing and what customers seek when choosing a café or terrace. Nearly 45% of consumers now drink coffee primarily for pleasure, rather than solely for waking up or boosting energy levels. This shift has fostered an experience-driven culture focused on taste and variety, particularly noticeable in cafés, restaurants, and outdoor seating areas.

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80% of consumers from Generation Z, Millennials, and Generation X say that the beverage offering influences the choice of restaurant almost as much as the food menu.

Beverage selection has become a crucial factor in choosing a dining establishment. According to the "Drinking Differently" study from 2025, 80% of consumers from Generation Z, Millennials, and Generation X state that the drink menu influences their choice of restaurant almost as much as the food menu. This highlights a growing trend where beverage offerings are central to the customer experience.

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Almost a third of them regularly consume coffee with ice, turning a product considered until recently a niche into a common option.

Generation Z is notably changing the game. Approximately one-third of this demographic regularly consumes iced coffee, turning a once-niche product into a common option. For Gen Z, these drinks are less about routine and more about social experience. They seek customizable, visually appealing options distinct from traditional choices. The study also indicates that Gen Z consumes alcohol less frequently than previous generations and shows increasing interest in non-alcoholic alternatives, though only 37% are satisfied with current non-alcoholic offerings, signaling significant market potential.

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Gen Z consumes alcohol less frequently than previous generations and shows increasing interest in non-alcoholic alternatives.