What Coffee Does IHOP Use?

With over 1800 branches of the International House of Pancakes (IHOP), this is one of the most popular breakfast chains out there.

And, while it’s best known for its unique and delicious pancakes, it’s also famous for having some pretty delicious coffee.

So what coffee does IHOP use and can you brew it at home? Let’s find out in this guide!

Introducing The Royal Cup Coffee

Since 2019, Royal Cup Coffee has been the proud supplier of all the coffee beverages in IHOP, a famous breakfast chain. Aside from IHOP, it also serves Waffle House and other famous hotel establishments.

While some coffee shops keep their suppliers a secret, IHOP and Royal Cup Coffee were generous enough to let everyone know they’re business partners. In a Facebook post by Royal Cup Coffee and Tea in 2011, the brand proudly announced that it roasts the famous IHOP International Coffee.

Even though the brand partnered with IHOP in 2011, it’s been around for a long time. A many named Henry T. Batterton founded the company in Birmingham, Alabama in the 1800s.

According to Batterton, the name “Royal Cup” came from the idea that customers thought his coffee belonged to royalty. This is because of its excellent and bold flavor profile.

The brand’s original name was Batterton Coffee Company before Henry decided to rename it the Royal Cup.

Why IHOP Coffee is Unique

There’s a reason why several people are curious about the brand supplying IHOP coffee. It’s good, unique, and something you want to come back for.

Thanks to Royal Cup, customers loved how smooth the IHOP International Coffee is. And, despite the smoothness, the flavor profile is rich and bold and gives you that kick of caffeine you need.

IHOP International Coffee is best paired with the restaurant’s bestselling pancake dishes. The flavor is rich, but not overpowering so it goes well with anything.

In fact, you might be surprised to hear the coffee is so good and versatile that Royal Cup has won various awards in the coffee industry.

IHOP Coffee Menu

Unlike other coffee shops, IHOP only offers one coffee variant: IHOP International Roast. But, you can choose either to go with regular coffee or a decaffeinated one.

The IHOP International Roast contains 100% pure Arabica beans. The beans are single-origin Colombian coffee, so they have a very noticeable flavor.

If you check out IHOP’s website, you will see that its coffee contains 0 calories, 0 carbs, and 0 sugar. But, note that a 16-ounce of serving has a bit of sodium, about 10 milligrams.

Coffee Costs at IHOP

You might think that because IHOP is serving good quality Royal Cup coffee, it’s expensive. However, that’s not the case.

A cup of IHOP International Roast starts from $1.99 a cup for regular and $2.49 if you prefer decaf. Of course, these prices can vary depending on your location or state. This is fairly cheap, considering that IHOP coffee is of decent quality and tastes unique.

Non-coffee beverages, such as hot chocolate costs $3 per cup while a milkshake clocks in at $5 per order. Comparing these prices to that of coffee, you’ll find that IHOP’s coffee prices are pretty reasonable.

Brewing IHOP Coffee At Home

While dining at IHOP Coffee sounds fun, it’s also nice to stay home, brew a fresh cup of coffee, and relax. Now that you know Royal Cup supplies IHOP’s International Roast, you can grab a bag of their beans to use at home.

Just note that Royal Cup product size and selections cater more to large businesses. When you buy from this company, you’ll have to buy in bulk.

That’s because the brand is typically used to sell coffee in restaurants, hotels, and convenience stores.

What Coffee Does IHOP Use – FAQs

Now that you know what coffee IHOP uses, you might have some other related questions.

Lucky for you I’ve put together a quick FAQ with what you need to know. Keep reading to get all the details!

Is Royal Cup still operating?

Yes, Royal Cup continues to operate today, and the Smith family manages and owns the business. From a small hometown coffee brand in the past, Royal Cup has become a trusted and reliable brand.

It remains a famous roaster, distributor, and roaster of the world’s premium coffee specialties and teas.

What Type of Coffee Do Most Coffee Shops and Restaurants Use?

Restaurants and coffee shops have different suppliers for their beans, meaning that there’s no single brand that most use. But, a common denominator is that most famous restaurant chains use medium-roast coffee beans.

What Is the Number One Coffee in the USA?

According to a 2014 consumer poll that measured connection, brand equity, and buzz, Dunkin’ Donuts is the number one coffee. Other top competitors include Green Mountain Coffee, Folgers, Seattle’s Best, Maxwell House, and McCafe.

The IHOP Coffee Secret Revealed

IHOP International Coffee is a unique blend supplied by Royal Cup. It’s got a unique balanced flavor that pairs well with any meal you order.

Once you taste the unique flavor of IHOP International Roast, it’s no surprise that you’ll be coming back for more. Pair your cup with delicious pancakes, and enjoy your all-American breakfast!

Have you already tried brewing IHOP coffee at home? Let us know what you thought in the comments!