The internet is currently caught in a debate, and its source is neither political nor social, but a simple, harmless cup of iced coffee or iced latte. Earlier this year, Caitlin Wehniainen, a seasoned recruiter, posted a video on TikTok (banned in India) about her opinion on Gen Z applicants carrying iced coffee into job interviews. The video has resurfaced, dividing people into two camps. One group of conventional, traditionalist recruiters believes it makes the interview look like any other errand the candidate might run that day and reflects on the value it carries for them. Some have also called it something that goes against formal etiquette. The young and Gen Z, on the other hand, believe that it is an outdated and trivial corporate expectation and that carrying a beverage to an interview cannot determine an interviewee's dedication, skill, or work ethic.
We won’t tell you what to do. To each their own. But if you wish to carry a cup of iced coffee to your next job interview (we are not suggesting that you do or you don’t) or if you just want to understand why this beverage sparks debate when appearing for something as important as a potential job, then these are the spots in Delhi that serve some of the best iced coffees.
Daily Drama
One of the most underrated coffee shops in the city sits in a compact space in Defence Colony, and if you are a coffee nerd, there is no way you are missing out on a coffee run at Daily Drama.
Their Cereal Milk Latte is one you should definitely not miss. It pairs conflake-infused milk with an espresso shot and tons of ice. The cup might become one of the most comforting and nostalgic cups of coffee you have sipped in Delhi. Another one I would highly recommend from Daily Drama is their Pistachio Latte. Served iced, the showstopper of this drink is their sweet pistachio butter cold foam that tops the cup. It would be sinful to leave the coffee shop without trying this one. Another option is the Biscoff iced latte, which is great for those who like their coffee to taste like dessert. Their salads and bowls pair well with the coffee. It is a no-fuss spot where you can easily stop your post-run caffeine kick, as well as for a well-rounded coffee experience in the city.
Address: 1st & 2nd Floor, Property 16, Defence Colony Market, Defence Colony, New Delhi
Price for two: INR 1,400
Libertario Coffee Co. & Roasters
If there is one coffee shop in the city doing consistently well with its brews, it is Libertario in GK2 M Block Market. One of their bestsellers, the Iced Brown Sugar Latte, is delicious, with the highlight being their signature cold foam milk. The classic fruity notes that iced coffee is supposed to feature are well reflected in Libertario’s version, and you are most likely to return for this one once you have hooked yourself to it.
Other than that, their cold brews, pour-overs, and particularly the Coconut Cloud Matcha are other options you must explore if not your signature iced coffee. On the food front, you can rarely go wrong with their empanadas and sandwiches, but don’t forget to grab one of their cookies from the bakery. My favourite is the decadent Dark Chocolate Pistachio Cookie.
Address: M/52, Ground Floor, M Block Market, Greater Kailash 2 (GK 2), New Delhi
Price for two: INR 2,500
The Drop
A relatively recent addition to Delhi’s food scene, The Drop is what I recommend to everyone who wishes to try a new coffee shop in town. Located in the popular and upcoming Hauz Khas lane, two of The Drop’s iced coffees are worth a visit. Go for the Coconut Long Black. While a Long Black is traditionally served hot, this one features a shot of espresso poured over ice and coconut water. It is simple, yet the legendary combo of coconut and coffee makes the beverage addictive. Another one is the Iced Hojicha Latte. Not really a fan of hojicha? This one could turn you into one. A creamy sip that pairs the Japanese green tea with milk (of your choice) and ice. I opted for almond milk, and it worked in my favour.
The drop also offers craft coffee cocktails, matcha, and a range of special brews you must try. Their focaccia sandwiches and tin cookies deserve a few words of their own. Don’t forget to try it all at The Drop, but don’t miss their iced coffee and latte.
Address: G-8, Ground Floor, Hauz Khas Market, Block G, Kharera, Hauz Khas, New Delhi
Price for two: INR 2,500
Genre
With a separate section for iced coffees and lattes on its beverage menu, Genre in New Friends Colony is another coffee destination many in the city frequent for their coffee runs. From the section, regulars often pick the Salted Caramel Latte or the Coconut Latte. However, a barista favourite is their signature Dirty Iced Coffee, which pairs a double espresso shot with milk. If you like your coffee to hit strong, then this seems like THE ONE for you. Alongside iced coffees and lattes, they also serve matcha, smoothies, and juices.
Address: 7, G/F, Defence Colony Market, Block A, Defence Colony, New Delhi
Price for two: INR 2,000
The Dumbo X Perch Window
The Dumbo X Perch window at Meherchand Market is on this list because it makes pick-and-go the spot's concept. So, if you are going to a job interview and you wish to stop by (we are not suggesting you do, but you can) and pick up a cup of iced coffee or an iced coffee latte, this is where you must be. Highlights from their menu include the iced hojicha latte and their signature iced latte. They are also best known for both their vegetarian and non-vegetarian Florentine sandwiches that pair well with the coffee.
Address: Unit-90, Ground Floor, Mehar Chand Market, Lodhi Colony, New Delhi
Price for two: INR 1,600
