Whether you’re an early riser chasing that first caffeine hit or winding down after a long day, Caribou Coffee has the perfect drink (and snack) to match your mood and energy level. In this blog post, we break down the best menu picks for every hour. From bold, eye-opening brews to mid-day refreshers and soothing evening sips, this guide helps you make the most of each visit—no matter when your coffee craving strikes.
Why Timing Matters at Caribou
At Caribou Coffee, the menu is designed to match how your energy and appetite change throughout the day. It’s not just about picking a drink—it’s about picking the right drink for the moment. In the morning, when you need a boost to get going, Caribou offers strong brewed coffee and filling breakfast items like sandwiches and pastries. These choices help wake you up and keep you full through the start of your day. For many regulars, grabbing their morning coffee from Caribou is part of their daily routine—something they look forward to.
By late morning and into lunchtime, the menu shifts toward lighter, smoother drinks that help you stay focused without feeling over-caffeinated. Cold brews, Crafted Press drinks, and simple lunch options are great choices when you want something refreshing that still gives you a bit of energy. Whether you’re taking a break from work or catching up with a friend, these drinks are made to fit comfortably into your day.
In the afternoon, when your energy might start to drop, Caribou’s stronger options come in handy. Drinks like the Espresso Shaker or a Depth Charge (coffee with an extra shot of espresso) give you a serious caffeine boost to help you finish out the day strong. If you’re looking for something even quicker, Caribou also offers energy drinks with just the right amount of kick. And if you’re craving a treat, this is a great time to enjoy something sweet with your drink, like a cookie or blended Cooler.
Later in the day, as things wind down, the menu focuses more on comfort than caffeine. Caribou offers plenty of lower-caffeine and caffeine-free drinks, like decaf coffee, tea lattes, or steamers. These are perfect for a cozy evening drink—whether you’re relaxing at home, meeting someone for a quiet chat, or grabbing something warm on the go. These drinks are meant to help you slow down and enjoy the moment without keeping you up at night.
Caribou also does a great job matching drinks with food, so no matter what time of day you stop in, you’ll find something that not only tastes good but also fits how you feel. From strong coffee in the morning to a calming tea at night, Caribou makes sure your drink works for you—not the other way around.
Morning (6 AM – 11 AM)
The Essential Brew: Daybreak Blend
Caribou’s Daybreak Blend is the signature light roast, affectionately known as “The Wake Up,” delivering red wine acidity, jammy body, and malty sweetness to brighten your morning routine. Crafted from a blend of Central American and East African beans, this coffee offers a well-balanced flavor that’s uplifting without being too bold. You can bring it home in whole bean, ground, or K‑Cup® formats to recreate the café feel in your own kitchen.
Classic Lattes and Mochas
If you prefer something warm and milky, you can’t go wrong with one of Caribou’s signature espresso drinks. The Vanilla Latte is a smooth, cozy classic—steamed milk blended with espresso and a touch of vanilla syrup. It’s a go-to for those who want a gentle introduction to the day with just enough caffeine to get going. For something a little more indulgent, the Turtle Mocha Cooler blends espresso with rich chocolate and caramel over ice, striking a sweet-but-strong balance that feels like a dessert and a pick-me-up in one. You can always opt for petite sizes to keep sugar levels lower, and if you’re a Caribou Perks member, you may even score a size upgrade for free—making it even easier to treat yourself.
Hearty Breakfast Pairings
Nothing pairs better with a hot cup of coffee than a warm breakfast sandwich. Caribou’s all-day breakfast menu includes options like the Bacon, Egg & Cheddar on a toasted bagel (610 Cal), or the Ham, Egg & Swiss on a buttery croissant (500 Cal)—both filling and satisfying for a full morning ahead. There’s also a lighter, savory Spinach, Artichoke, Egg & Provolone soufflé (420 Cal) that hits the spot without feeling too heavy. And for those looking to skip the meat, Caribou offers plant-based options like the Beyond Meat® Sausage Burrito with Egg & Mozzarella (420 Cal), making sure everyone has a flavorful, protein-packed way to start the day.
Grab‑and‑Go Parfaits and Oats
Not every morning allows for a sit-down meal, which is why Caribou’s grab-and-go offerings are so popular. Their Oatmeal Parfaits—available in Strawberry & Honey (250 Cal) or Blueberry & Almond (260 Cal)—are perfect if you’re looking for something light, refreshing, and full of protein. They’re made to be eaten on the run but don’t compromise on flavor. And if you prefer something warm and hearty, the classic Steel Cut Oatmeal with Maple Brown Sugar (340 Cal) gives you long-lasting energy with a comforting, homey taste.
Midday (11 AM – 2 PM)
By late morning or early afternoon, many of us start to feel the need for a second wind. Whether you’re stepping away from your desk, out running errands, or simply looking for a well-earned break, Caribou Coffee has just the right lineup to keep you going. With lighter, energizing drink options and satisfying lunch choices, midday at Caribou is all about balance and flexibility.
Cold Press and Nitro Cold Brew
Caribou’s Cold Press coffee is a customer favorite for a reason. It’s brewed slowly—anywhere from 8 to 24 hours—which allows the coffee’s natural flavors to develop fully while minimizing acidity. The result is a bold yet smooth coffee that tastes just as good over ice as it does with cream or milk.
If you’re looking to elevate your iced coffee experience, try the Nitro Cold Press. Infused with nitrogen gas, it pours like a stout beer, with a thick, foamy head and a naturally creamy texture—without adding milk or sugar. A small (16 oz) Nitro packs a punch at 320 mg of caffeine, yet it clocks in at only about 25 calories. For something a bit more indulgent, the Crafted Press lets you blend in cream, milk, or flavored syrups like vanilla or caramel to personalize your drink exactly how you like it.
Iced Coolers and Fruit Shakers
Sometimes, you want something refreshing and just a bit sweet to carry you through the afternoon slump. The Caramel High Rise Cooler is a chilled blend of coffee, caramel, and ice—perfect for those who love a little dessert-like flair in the middle of the day. It’s icy, satisfying, and still brings that familiar caffeine lift.
For something lighter and more hydrating, seasonal Fruit Shakers are a great choice. Drinks like the Lemon Raspberry Fruit Shaker combine real fruit purees with green tea and ice, offering a fruity, slightly tart refreshment that feels clean and energizing without being too heavy. These drinks are especially popular on warmer days or when you’re craving something different from your usual coffee order.
Lunch Provisions and Sandwiches
Midday meals don’t have to be rushed or routine. Caribou makes it easy to grab a quick but tasty lunch, whether you’re dining in or taking it to-go. The Turkey Provolone on an Asiago Bagel (490 Cal) is a filling option that brings together lean protein and bold flavor. For something lighter, the Caprese on Focaccia (320 Cal) is a fresh vegetarian favorite, layered with mozzarella, tomato, and basil. If you’re in the mood for comfort food, the Grilled Cheese on Sourdough (610 Cal) brings all the melty, buttery goodness you’d expect from a classic, but with a gourmet twist.
Afternoon (2 PM – 5 PM)
As the afternoon rolls in and energy dips, Caribou Coffee offers just the right menu to bring you back to life—without overloading your system before dinnertime. Whether you’re craving a refreshing energy drink, a spiced chai, or a cool twist on your usual espresso, this window of the day is all about variety.
Berry‑C and Other Energy Drinks
One standout from Caribou’s afternoon lineup is the Berry-C Energy drink. It’s not just about the caffeine (though it definitely has enough to keep you going); it also delivers a boost of vitamin C—up to 210% of your daily value—depending on size. With a splash of bright fruit flavor and a layer of coconut milk cold foam on top, it hits the sweet spot between hydration and energy.
If you’re watching your sugar intake, Caribou also offers sugar-free energy drinks in flavors like Salted Watermelon and Passionfruit Yuzu. These choices pack the same energizing caffeine punch but clock in at under 30 calories for a small. They’re crisp, clean, and light enough that you won’t feel weighed down before dinner.
Chais, Teas, and Espresso Whip
For something warm, comforting, but still gently energizing, Caribou’s chai drinks are perfect. The Spiced Chai Latte—served hot or iced—is made with black tea, milk, and their signature chai spice blend. It’s slightly sweet with a kick of cinnamon and clove, making it a cozy option even in warmer weather.
Want to level up your tea or espresso? Try adding Espresso Whip, a whipped topping that blends espresso and cream for a rich, foamy finish. It adds flavor, texture, and a touch of indulgence to any afternoon drink without overpowering it.
Evening & Nighttime Orders (5 PM – Close)
As the sun starts to set and you wind down, Caribou’s evening menu offers plenty of comforting, low-caffeine options that let you enjoy your favorite flavors without staying up all night.
Low‑Caffeine and Decaf Delights
Craving that coffee flavor but want to keep things calm? Caribou’s Decaf Daybreak Blend is just the ticket. It’s crafted using a natural water decaffeination process, so you still get the same bright, jammy notes and malty sweetness found in the original—just without the buzz. It’s a great choice for sipping after dinner or while settling in with a good book.
For espresso lovers, decaf lattes like the Decaf Mocha give you all the warm, chocolatey comfort (around 300 calories depending on size and milk) without a surge of late-night energy. They’re rich, smooth, and made for moments when you just want to treat yourself.
Comforting Hot Sips
Nothing winds down the day quite like a classic Hot Chocolate. Made with real chocolate chips and steamed milk, it’s sweet, creamy, and just nostalgic enough to make any evening feel a little more special. Perfect for kids, or for anyone skipping caffeine entirely.
Looking for something unique? Caribou’s seasonal drinks—like the Honey Lavender Espresso Shaker—combine soft floral flavors and real honey with a light caffeine profile, offering the best of both worlds: flavor and relaxation. These sips are perfect for when you want something a little extra, without the late-night jitters.
Seasonal Rotations & Limited‑Time Offers
One of the most exciting things about Caribou Coffee is how the menu changes with the seasons. Each rotation brings something new to explore—perfect for breaking out of your usual order or trying something that feels extra special.
Spring’s Cinnamon Sugar lineup is all about cozy sweetness with a playful twist. Think of churros, warm spice, and rich espresso. The Cinnamon Sugar Latte, Mocha, and Caramel Espresso Shaker combine that classic comfort with a bold kick of real cinnamon, making them ideal for the crisp mornings and breezy afternoons of spring.
In contrast, winter’s Honey Lavender offerings bring a calming, floral flavor profile that feels just right during the colder months. Drinks like the Honey Lavender Espresso Shaker and the Iced Lavender Matcha offer gentle sweetness with a soothing aroma—like a warm hug in a cup.
If you’re a fan of seasonal specials, it pays to stay updated. New drinks often appear with little notice, and fan favorites don’t always stick around. The best way to keep tabs on what’s coming up next? Watch the Caribou Coffee mobile app and newsroom for fresh drops, flavor reveals, and limited-time items that tend to fly off the menu.
How to Make the Most of Caribou Perks
If you stop by Caribou more than once in a while, joining Caribou Perks is a no-brainer. Members earn 1 to 2 points for every $1 spent, and those points add up quickly—especially if you’re a regular.
You can redeem 50 points for a free brewed coffee or bakery item, or 175 points for something more filling like a breakfast sandwich. If you’re eyeing a size upgrade, trying out new seasonal drinks, or shopping holiday merchandise, your points work there too.
Even better? Perks members often get early access to seasonal drinks, bonus point events, and app-only deals. If you’re using the Caribou app to order ahead, you can also save your favorite drink hacks and reorder with a single tap.
Customization & Dietary Preferences
Whether you’re watching your sugar, cutting out dairy, or just like to mix it up, Caribou makes it easy to customize your order. Their wide range of non-dairy milk options—including oat, almond, soy, and coconut—work in nearly all espresso and tea-based drinks. And Perks members get these swaps at no extra charge when ordering in the app.
If you’re managing your sugar intake, you’re covered there too. Choose from sugar-free syrups like vanilla, caramel, and cinnamon sugar to keep your drink flavorful but lighter. You can also boost your caffeine with extra espresso shots, or change up the texture with cold foam or their creamy espresso whip topping.
Health & Caffeine Guidelines
For most healthy adults, around 400 mg of caffeine per day is considered safe. That’s roughly four cups of coffee, depending on how strong you make them. Drinks like the Nitro Cold Press can contain up to 320 mg in a small, while some of the energy drinks range from 200 to 400 mg, especially in medium or large sizes.
If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, the general advice is to keep it under 200 mg per day. Not sure what’s in your favorite drink? Caribou’s website and app often include nutrition and caffeine info to help you plan your order.
Conclusion
No matter what time the craving hits—sunrise, midday slump, or evening unwind—Caribou Coffee has something to suit your vibe and energy needs. From bold morning brews to cool, refreshing afternoon pick-me-ups and cozy nightcap lattes, tailoring your order to the time of day can elevate your entire coffee experience. So next time you stop by, think about the moment and let your drink match it. With a little timing and the right choice, every Caribou visit can hit just right.