Kiribati
Kiribati's coffee scene is unique and still developing, especially compared to more heavily touristed Pacific nations. As a less developed island nation, convenience and traditional methods often take precedence over a wide array of specialized espresso drinks, particularly outside of the capital, South Tarawa. However, there are growing efforts to introduce modern cafe experiences.
Based on available information, here are the different ways you can expect to order coffee in Kiribati and what's in them:
Basic & Instant Coffee (Most Common):
Instant Coffee: This is by far the most common way to get coffee in Kiribati, particularly in homes, smaller guesthouses, and less specialized eateries. It's affordable and easy to prepare.
What's in it: Instant coffee granules dissolved in hot water. Served black, or with sugar and powdered milk/creamer (often the only milk option available) to taste.
Simple Brewed Coffee / Drip Coffee: Some guesthouses or small local restaurants might offer basic brewed coffee, made with a simple drip machine or pour-over method.
What's in it: Ground coffee beans and hot water. Served black, or with sugar and milk/creamer.
Modern Cafe Offerings (Primarily in South Tarawa):
South Tarawa, being the capital and most populous atoll, is where you'll find the most modern coffee experiences.
Espresso / Short Black: A concentrated shot of coffee.
Long Black: Hot water with a double shot of espresso poured over it.
Latte / Café Latte: Espresso with steamed milk and a thin layer of foam.
Cappuccino: Espresso with steamed milk and a thicker layer of foamed milk, possibly with a dusting of chocolate powder.
Flat White: Espresso with velvety, steamed milk and very little foam. Some cafes, especially those with Australian/NZ influence, might offer this.
Mocha / Mochaccino: Espresso combined with chocolate syrup and steamed milk, often topped with whipped cream.
Iced Coffee: Iced options are available. This could range from a simple black coffee over ice to a more elaborate version with milk, ice cream, and possibly whipped cream and syrup (similar to the Australian style).
Iced Latte/Cappuccino/Mocha: The chilled versions of their hot counterparts, made with espresso, cold milk, and ice.
Blended Coffee / Frappe: Some cafes might offer blended ice coffee drinks, similar to frappes, with various flavorings.
Local and Unique Aspects:
Sweetness: Like many Pacific cultures, a preference for sweet beverages is common, so coffees might be served pre-sweetened or with ample sugar available.
Key things to remember when ordering coffee in Kiribati:
Manage Expectations: Outside of a few specific cafes in South Tarawa, the range of sophisticated espresso drinks will be limited. Instant coffee is the norm in many places.
Specify Your Preference: If you prefer machine-made coffee, explicitly ask for "espresso," "latte," or "cappuccino" and look for an espresso machine. Otherwise, you'll likely receive instant coffee.
Embrace the Local Experience: Be open to trying coffee prepared simply, possibly with local additions like coconut milk.
Cash is King: While some larger establishments might accept cards, having local currency (Australian Dollar is widely used and the Kiribati dollar is pegged to it) is always advisable.
*The content in this document was generated using artificial intelligence, drawing from various online sources, and subsequently refined for accuracy and conciseness in 2025. Users are advised to consult multiple sources to corroborate information and should not rely solely on this document for comprehensive research.