When's the Best Time to Drink Coffee? It’s Not What You Think

We all love that first cup of coffee in the morning—it’s practically a ritual. But if you’ve ever wondered when the best time to drink coffee actually is, science has a few surprises in store.

Let’s break it down.

☀️ First Thing in the Morning? Maybe Not...

You roll out of bed, reach for the kettle or espresso machine, and fire up the day with your favourite brew. It’s what most of us do. But here’s the thing: your body might not need caffeine the second you wake up.

That’s because of a hormone called cortisol—your natural wake-up call. Cortisol spikes around 8 a.m. for most people, helping you feel alert and focused (even if it doesn’t always feel that way).

Drinking coffee during that cortisol spike could mean you’re getting less of a caffeine boost and building a higher tolerance over time. So when’s better?

🕤 The Real Golden Hour for Coffee

Experts suggest the best time to enjoy your first cup of coffee is between 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. This is when cortisol levels begin to dip, and your body can really make use of the caffeine.

This sweet spot gives you the buzz you’re after—without fighting against your natural rhythm. It’s the perfect window for a smooth, medium roast or something bold and nutty like our Mexico Single Origin.

☕ Afternoon Slump? There's a Fix for That

That dreaded 2–3 p.m. energy dip? That’s cortisol doing its downward spiral again.

A moderate cup of coffee here can help you stay sharp through the afternoon. Just don’t overdo it—especially if you're sensitive to caffeine. We suggest a balanced single origin like our Colombia for a mellow yet effective pick-me-up.

💡 Tip: If you’re a late riser or work night shifts, adjust these windows to suit your routine. The goal is to time your coffee when cortisol isn’t doing all the heavy lifting.

🛏️ What About Evening Coffee?

Love a post-dinner espresso? We get it. But be mindful—caffeine can linger in your system for 6–8 hours. If sleep’s been tricky, try a decaf or stop sipping after 3–4 p.m. (unless you’re brewing for the flavour, not the fuel).

Final Thoughts

Coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a moment. And timing it right means getting more from every cup. Whether you’re into rich, chocolatey single origins or lighter, fruity blends, try syncing your brew with your body’s rhythm and see how much better your day flows.