By Deyi Meng ’26
Stepping out of the classroom, head buzzing with integrals and derivatives from the test you just finished, you stumble into the Lanphier (Lanphy) Cafe for a much-needed pick-me-up. You turn your head and witness an array of vibrant drinks populating the counter. From the basic black coffee to the electrifying chill of iced lattes, the offerings at Lanphy are as diverse as they are delightful. With this wide array of drink options in mind, we interviewed Lanphy regulars to see what your order says about you.
Black Coffee
If you find yourself relishing in the bitter, aromatic flavors of a plain black coffee, you are a bold and strong-willed individual. You are the kind of person who thrives on stability, making to-do lists and ensuring the reliability of both your caffeine intake and your daily activities. You have a strong sense of self; you know who you are, what you want to do, and how you want to do it.
As a black coffee enthusiast, Ada Tieanworn ’26 shared her fondness for the drink: “I like that it’s something simple and basic that I can have every day, and it gives me very consistent energy, and I like consistency.”
Latte
Those who regularly sip on lattes most likely have calm and laid-back personalities. You seek a life of tranquility, relishing the simple joys that come your way. You are as honest as they come and always tell it like it is. Unlike those who gravitate to the simplicity of black coffee or the intrepid souls who seek out the most intricate espresso concoctions, you appreciate a balance in life.
Stephanie Nguyen ’26 encapsulated the beauty of the latte, saying, “It’s not too sweet, but it’s not too much coffee.” Latte lover Ana Isabella Bury ’25 said, “I feel like it reflects a more businessy side of me. Simple [and] practical.”
Frappuccino
As glorified milkshake enthusiasts, frappuccino zealots are always down for a good time. Just as a frappuccino is more of a sugary treat and a divergence from a traditional coffee drink, those who enjoy it are unique and creative individuals who do not shy from spontaneity.
Frappuccino fanatic Elizabeth Burgstahler ’26 said, “I like caffeine, but not the taste of coffee, and I want something that’s going to [give me] energy.” These people are thirsty for adventure, even (or especially) when it comes to their Lanphy order. They seek out a broad range of flavors, from green tea to birthday cake; frappuccino fans love to experiment.
Caramel Macchiato
When someone’s go-to order is a caramel macchiato, you know they enjoy sophistication with the right amount of sprinkles and sweetness. This beverage, a delectable mélange of milk and espresso topped with a signature caramel drizzle, is popular for a reason.
If you are a person who likes the buzz and chatter of cafes and the hum of the coffee machine, this might be just the drink for you. Personifying the caramel macchiato, Amanda Benneh ’24 said, “It’s a very outgoing drink.”
Chai
With an array of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, the potent and striking taste of a chai differs from all its counterparts. If chai is your cup of tea, it’s clear you’re not the type to blend into the crowd; you stand out, and you like it that way. Any chai aficionado has a taste for the bold and the beautiful.
Lanphy has the perfect drink for you, whether you like your drinks cold or hot, bitter or sweet. So, next time you’re craving a coffee, experiment and discover what your choice says about you!
