Ice for Iced Coffee: A Guide for Cafés
Iced coffee, cold brew, iced tea, smoothies and bubble tea are now year-round menu items, and sales jump on warm days. Here is how cafés can plan their ice.
How much ice per drink?
A regular iced latte or iced americano typically uses around 150–250 g of ice, depending on cup size. Blended drinks and smoothies use a similar amount of crushed or cube ice. Multiply by your iced-drink sales on a warm day to see how quickly a small ice machine can fall behind.
Which ice to use
- Cube ice for iced coffee, cold brew, iced tea and soft drinks; it melts more slowly and dilutes less.
- Crushed ice for blended drinks, frappés and smoothies.
- 2 kg bags fit easily into small under-counter freezers.
Planning for hot days
Check the forecast and order extra bags the day before a warm spell. Order by 5pm for next-day delivery, and choose a morning slot so the ice arrives before the lunchtime rush. Keep a few spare bags frozen as back-up for your ice machine.
Storage tips
Store bags flat in the freezer, and drop a bag gently on the counter to break up any clumps before opening. Use a clean scoop, never a glass, to serve ice.
Nice Ice supplies cafés and coffee shops across London; see ice for cafés and coffee shops.
Ordering ice from Nice Ice
- £10 per 12 kg bag: cube ice, crushed ice or 6 × 2 kg bags.
- Free delivery across London from 5 bags.
- Order by 5pm for next-day delivery, Monday to Saturday, morning or afternoon slot.
- Regular orders? Open a trade account.
Frequently asked questions
How much ice is in an iced coffee? Typically around 150–250 g, depending on the cup size.
What is the best ice for iced coffee? Cube ice, because it melts more slowly and waters the coffee down less.
How can a café avoid running out of ice? Keep spare bags frozen as back-up for the ice machine and order extra the day before hot weather.