UPDATE: The coffee world is abuzz as the viral Banana Cream Pie Latte from Academic Coffee in San Jose, California, continues to captivate taste buds nationwide. Launched just nine months ago, this innovative beverage has skyrocketed in popularity, fueled by social media attention and customer demand.
Frank Nguyen, the founder of Academic Coffee, never anticipated the massive wave of interest when he introduced the latte last October. “We were initially trying to create a different holiday drink,” Nguyen explained. “But after extensive testing, we stumbled upon this banana cream base that took off.” The combination of fresh bananas, cream, and a dusting of Biscoff cookie crumbles created a taste reminiscent of a classic banana cream pie, prompting regulars to plead for its continued availability.
By early January 2025, lines stretched out the door as new customers flocked to the cafe after discovering the drink on TikTok. “We had no idea we were trending until we saw the posts,” Nguyen said, recalling the moment they realized their drink had gone viral. With tens of thousands of views, TikTokers showcased the creamy lattes adorned with banana-colored foam and cookie sprinkles, igniting further interest.
However, by April 2025, demand outstripped supply, leading Nguyen’s team to temporarily halt production. “We just couldn’t make enough banana,” he admitted, highlighting the strain on his staff as customers expressed disappointment over sold-out signs. In response, they revamped their kitchens and resumed production, only to witness the banana latte trend expand beyond their cafe to coffee shops across the country.
According to data from ABC News, the term “banana cream latte” surged in popularity starting in January 2025, coinciding with Academic Coffee’s rise to fame. “While they can’t claim that they created it, Academic Coffee is likely the cause of the viral sensation of the banana cream latte,” stated Frank Esposito, an ABC News data journalist.
Nguyen’s influence even reached Disneyland, where he discovered a similar drink during a family visit. “I thought it was too sweet,” he laughed, noting the irony of the latte’s success. The visibility has opened new avenues for Academic Coffee, prompting collaborations with food influencers to introduce innovative beverages like the guava matcha latte, which is quickly outselling the banana drink.
As the one-year anniversary of the Banana Cream Pie Latte approaches, Nguyen reflects on the dedication to quality that brought his cafe into the spotlight. “After nine years in coffee, it’s rewarding to see that people finally know who we are,” he remarked, underscoring the emotional journey of his business.
The buzz around Academic Coffee shows no sign of waning. As new creations and viral trends emerge, the coffee world watches closely, eager to see what Nguyen and his team will brew up next.
