Coffee Culture Around the World
Coffee is more than just a beverage—it’s a ritual that connects people across
cultures. In Italy, espresso is a quick, social drink enjoyed at the bar counter,
while in Ethiopia, elaborate coffee ceremonies honor tradition and community.
Turkish coffee, brewed unfiltered in a cezve, has UNESCO cultural heritage status.
Meanwhile, in the United States, the coffee shop has become both a workplace and a
social hub. Each culture’s way of brewing and drinking coffee tells a story about
lifestyle, values, and social interaction.
1. Italy and the Espresso Tradition
In Italy, coffee is an essential daily ritual, and espresso is its cornerstone.
Italians typically drink their coffee quickly, standing at the bar, rather than
lingering over it. Drinks are ordered with strict timing—cappuccino and other milk-
based coffees are taken in the morning, while espresso dominates the rest of the
day. The culture emphasizes both speed and quality, with a strong focus on flavor
and craftsmanship. Coffee in Italy is less about caffeine and more about tradition
and rhythm.
2. Ethiopia and the Coffee Ceremony
Ethiopia, often regarded as the birthplace of coffee, holds elaborate ceremonies
that highlight coffee’s role as a cultural bond. The ceremony involves roasting
beans over a fire, grinding them by hand, and brewing them in a traditional pot
called a jebena. It is a communal ritual, where neighbors and family gather to
share not just the drink but conversation and connection. These ceremonies can last
hours, reflecting coffee’s importance beyond mere consumption—it is hospitality,
heritage, and identity.
3. Turkey and Fortune-Telling in the Cup
In Turkey, coffee is brewed unfiltered in a small pot called a cezve, producing a
thick, strong beverage served in small cups. Beyond taste, Turkish coffee has a
social and mystical dimension: once the cup is finished, the remaining grounds are
often used for fortune-telling, a practice known as tasseography. Recognized by
UNESCO as part of the world’s intangible cultural heritage, Turkish coffee
represents hospitality, conversation, and tradition passed down through
generations.
4. Scandinavia and the Coffee Break
In countries like Sweden and Norway, coffee consumption is among the highest in the
world. A central part of daily life is fika, the Swedish tradition of taking a
coffee break accompanied by pastries and socializing. Unlike the quick Italian
espresso, fika emphasizes slowing down, connecting with friends or colleagues, and
balancing work with leisure. This practice reflects the Scandinavian values of
togetherness, equality, and well-being.
5. The United States and Coffee as a Lifestyle
In the United States, coffee culture has evolved into both convenience and
lifestyle. From diners serving bottomless drip coffee to the rise of global chains
like Starbucks, coffee is intertwined with work, study, and social life. Specialty
cafés now focus on artisanal brewing methods such as pour-over and cold brew,
reflecting a growing appreciation for quality and origin. Coffee shops often double
as community hubs or remote offices, symbolizing flexibility and modern work
culture.
6. Global Blending and Modern Trends
Today, coffee culture is increasingly globalized, with traditions influencing one
another. Japanese kissaten cafés combine European brewing styles with Japanese
minimalism, while Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk has gained worldwide
popularity. Specialty roasters emphasize ethical sourcing and highlight the
diversity of coffee-growing regions. From street vendors in Latin America to
artisanal cafés in urban centers, coffee remains a unifying force—an everyday drink
that reflects both cultural identity and global connection.
