In March, Yelp searches for tahini lattes surged a whopping 900% year over year, while searches for tahini coffee skyrocketed 678%.
Tahini, also known as tahina, is a plant-based butter or paste made from ground sesame seeds that often makes an appearance in dips like hummus or baba ghanoush.
Although it’s been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for several centuries, tahini has been carving out a space for itself as a beverage ingredient within the ever-so-popular coffee category as of late.
“For 2025, we predicted that coffee culture would continue to evolve with globally inspired flavors – and tahini is a great example of that shift,” Tara Lewis, Yelp Trend Expert, told The Food Institute.
So, what’s been driving the trend?
Buzzworthy Beverages
Ever since the Maman Salted Tahini Honeycomb Latte and Edith’s Tahini Frozen Cold Brew went viral on social media, Yelp users have been searching far and wide for local establishments where they can get a taste of the nutty and slightly savory beverages.
“Tahini has always been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, but it’s now showing up in coffee drinks, offering an unexpected flavor combination for coffee drinkers. Spots like Edith’s Sandwich Counter in New York are bringing this trend to life with creative drinks like their frozen tahini cold brew,” Lewis told FI.
“On Yelp, we’re seeing users seek out these unique brews as part of a broader consumer move toward culturally diverse flavors and dining experiences.”
And it isn’t only happening on Yelp.
Global Flavors
“As Middle Eastern flavors gain popularity, Tahini coffee is proving to be more than just a quirky trend – it’s a reflection of bigger shifts in the food and drink world,” Alon Chen, CEO and co-founder of Tastewise, told FI.
According to data compiled by Tastewise, social media posts mentioning tahini coffee have also increased by 126% year over year.
“Home cooks are joining the movement too, with a 74% spike in recipes that include tahini in coffee, showing a growing curiosity around Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavor palettes,” said Chen.
Cafes are picking up on the trend as well – especially boutique spots and wellness-focused places – with tahini coffee drinks appearing on menus 42% more than last year.”
In addition to their social media virality, Chen attributes much of the increased interest in tahini beverages to the growing demand for coffee options that both feel special and offer functional perks.
“Consumers are looking for ingredients that do more: support their health goals, fit into plant-based lifestyles, and offer something a little different. Tahini ticks all these boxes. Its nutty, creamy, sesame-forward flavor brings a sense of comfort while still feeling new and exciting,” said Chen.
“It also fits right into the ‘functional indulgence’ space, as it gives that rich coffee experience, but with a healthier twist. Since tahini is a plant-based fat, it adds a naturally creamy texture without needing dairy. That’s a win for vegans, the lactose-intolerant, or anyone chasing that velvety mouthfeel.”
The Food Institute Podcast
It’s tariff time, and companies the world over are working to better understand how their operations will be impacted. Jodi Ader from RSM US LLP joined The Food Institute Podcast to discuss which products and inputs are currently subject to tariffs, and how to best mitigate supply chain risks.
