Ever ordered a latte and hesitated to sip it because the top looked like a literal masterpiece? You’re not alone. In 2025, coffee art has gone from casual café charm to full-blown Instagram obsession. From 3D foam characters to color-drenched creations, baristas around the world are turning your morning caffeine fix into mini works of art.

Here are 7 coffee art styles so beautiful you’ll want to admire them, maybe even photograph them, before you take your first sip.

1. 3D Foam Art

Baristas use milk foam like clay, sculpting it into adorable bears, cats, and even tiny anime characters that rise above the cup. This type of latte art isn’t just flat, it’s a bubbly sculpture sitting right on your drink.

Where to find it

Specialty cafés in Japan, South Korea, and now trend-setting shops in New York and London.

2. Etched Latte Art

Instead of pouring milk to form shapes, artists use tools like toothpicks or latte pens to draw on the foam, etching intricate portraits, animals, or cartoon scenes.

Why it’s amazing

You can request custom images, like your pet or even your face. That’s next-level personalization.

3. Colored Coffee Art

Forget just brown and white. Using natural food dyes (like beetroot, turmeric, or matcha), baristas create rainbow-colored patterns and multi-hued flowers that look more like a canvas than a cappuccino.

Where to find it

Vegan and wellness-focused cafés across Australia, California, and Scandinavia.

4. Stencil Art with Cocoa or Cinnamon

Using stencils and powdered toppings like cocoa, cinnamon, or matcha, baristas press clean, sharp designs onto your latte hearts, logos, mandalas, and even pop culture references.

Pro tip

This one’s great for brands or cafés that want to add a signature touch to their cup.

5. Mirror Glaze Coffee

Inspired by mirror cakes, this coffee comes with a glossy, reflective glaze that’s often layered with shimmering colors. It’s mesmerizing to look at and feels futuristic.

Note

These are usually cold brews or dessert-style drinks served in transparent cups for full visual effect.

6. Galaxy or Cosmic Coffee Art

Swirled with deep blues, purples, and stars made of edible glitter, these drinks mimic the look of a galaxy. Think Van Gogh’s Starry Night but served in a cup.

Where to try

Trendy dessert cafés and coffee pop-ups that blend coffee with food artistry.

7. Minimalist Latte Designs

Less is more, and minimalist art has entered the coffee world too. These drinks feature simple, precise line art, like tiny tulips or clean geometric shapes, achieved with ultra-steady pours and subtle etching.

Why does it stand out

It’s elegant, modern, and Instagram-ready without being over the top.

Final Note

Coffee isn’t just a beverage anymore, it’s a form of expression. Whether you’re sipping on a galaxy latte or admiring a tiny cat floating in foam, these art styles remind us that even everyday rituals can feel magical.

Next time you visit a specialty café, don’t just look at the menu, look at the barista’s hands. You might be seconds away from sipping on art.

FAQs

Q: Can you actually drink these coffees, or are they just for show?
A: Totally drinkable! Most are made with regular espresso and milk, the art is just the foam or toppings.

Q: How long does coffee art last?
A: It usually lasts 5–10 minutes before fading, so get your photos fast.

Q: Can you learn to do this at home?
A: Yes! With a milk frother, espresso machine, and some patience, you can start practicing basic latte art at home.

Q: Are these types of art more expensive?
A: Slightly, depending on the time and materials used (like food coloring or custom stencils), but many cafés include it in the price of your drink.