Canadian Coffee Shops Rename Americano in Patriotic Response
February 28 - 2025
Coffee Geography Magazine
A growing number of Canadian coffee shops are renaming the Americano to the “Canadiano” in response to President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods. This patriotic rebranding movement, which began with British Columbia-based Kicking Horse Coffee, is gaining momentum as cafes across the country embrace the change.
“We’re officially making it a thing and asking coffee shops across the country to make the switch,” Kicking Horse Coffee stated, according to The Washington Post. Interestingly, the company has reportedly used the term “Canadiano” for over 16 years, long before the recent political tensions.
The move comes amid strained relations between Canada and the United States, fueled by Trump’s decision to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian exports this month. The tariffs, which the U.S. president justified by citing concerns over illegal immigration and drug trafficking, are set to take effect in March despite warnings of potential economic harm.
The rebranding of the Americano is just one example of how Canadians are responding to the escalating tensions. Hockey fans have booed the American national anthem at games, and new apps have emerged to help consumers identify and support Canadian-made products. Now, the humble coffee menu has become the latest platform for making a statement.
Walk into a Canadian café today, and you might notice a subtle but significant change: the classic Americano has been replaced by the “Canadiano.” This popular drink, made with a shot of espresso and hot water, is now being served with a side of national pride.
So, how did this sudden shift come about? And what does it reveal about the evolving relationship between Canada and its southern neighbor? The movement traces back to a now-deleted Instagram post by Kicking Horse Coffee, which encouraged cafes to adopt a name that felt “more patriotic.” The post sparked a wave of rebranded menus, turning the “Canadiano” into a symbol of cultural resistance and unity.
As cafes across Canada proudly serve their “Canadianos,” the rebranding reflects more than just a name change—it’s a small but meaningful act of defiance and solidarity in the face of political and economic challenges.