In an age of artisanal ice and ludicrous infusions, it’s nice to have a well-made classic. And no one does the classic Irish Coffee like the Buena Vista Cafe in San Francisco. They perfected the recipe back in 1952, and they haven’t changed it since. We stopped by to see how one is made.

1. Fill your glass with hot water, then dump it out.

2. Add two sugar cubes.

3. Pour coffee until the glass is 3/4 full.

4. Stir to dissolve.

5. Add a full jigger of Irish Whiskey.

6. Top with lightly whipped whipping cream by pouring gently over a spoon.

7. Enjoy.
More Features
Black Book: 14 Products Our Editors Loved in May 2026
The products our editors have been obsessed with in May 2026.
The Italian Art of Dressing Well in the Heat
Luca Faloni’s summer collection makes a compelling case for dressing like an Italian all summer long.
The Coolest Father’s Day Gifts of 2026 (New Products Added 5/29)
A curated collection of the best Father’s Day gifts for dads who appreciate craftsmanship, clever design, great stories, and really cool stuff.