Variables abound when it comes to the perfect cup of morning joe: the beans, the water, one’s preferred method of brewing — French press, drip, or whichever new trend is sweeping the third wave of coffee. But what about the mug? According to one recent study, a mug’s appearance does influence the way consumers perceive their coffee, both on levels of intensity and sweetness. Then again, this isn’t all that surprising. The belief that appearances can alter the experience of food and drinks is not new, especially in the restaurant industry, where plating often plays an integral role to preparation of dishes. To be clear, a better vessel doesn’t always mean better coffee. But these mugs pull their weight.
Hasami Porcelain Mug Cup
Made in Japan, from a mixture of porcelain and clay, these modular mugs come in three different colors — beige, black and gray — and are celebrated around the world for their organic aesthetic and usability.
Falcon Enamelware Mug
Constructed from heavyweight steel and covered in a thick enamel, the 12-ounce mugs from this iconic British manufacturer are ideal for both home and campsite.
Snowe Mug
Snowe was one of the best gear launches of 2015, conceived to bring luxury homeware to consumers for a fraction of the cost of other high-end brands. These lightweight mugs, sold in sets of four, are made in Portugal from high-quality porcelain sourced from Limoges, France.
Mazama Wares Large Mug
Hand made in Portland, Oregon, these 12-ounce stoneware mugs are tapered at the brim with unglazed bottoms. Available in a variety of other sizes and colors, all are conveniently microwave and dishwasher safe.
Kinto Slow Coffee Style Mug
Slow Coffee Style, from Japanese manufacturer Kinto, is inspired by the booming trend of manual pour-over coffee. The mugs from this collection are reminiscent of classic diner mugs, available in a range of different glazes including gray, blue and off-white.
