There are two main kinds of coffee beans - Arabica and Robusta.The BIG name brands in the plastic containers (MH, Folger's) are usually Robusta which is not as good (more bitter). Look for 100% Arabica.
I also have only one cup a day, so I want it to be good. I never get the stuff in the big plastic containers (although they are great for storing stuff!!) - I usually get something in an 11-oz bag.