Coffee, a beverage that spread from Africa to the world since the 15th century, has now become one of the most popular drinks in the world. In the bitterness and richness of coffee, not only does it contain rich history and culture, but it also nurtures unique caf é cultures from various regions. This article will take you on a coffee shop tour around the world, exploring the diversity and charm of coffee cultures in different countries.
Our first stop is Italy, visiting one of the hometowns of coffee. In Italy, coffee is not just a beverage, it is a way of life. On the streets of Rome or the squares of Venice, ancient cafes exude a strong historical atmosphere. People here are accustomed to standing quickly in the morning and drinking a cup of espresso, also known as Italian espresso. Italians’ love for coffee is reflected in their ultimate pursuit of coffee quality and the importance of coffee shops as social venues.
Across the Mediterranean, we arrived in Türkiye, where the coffee culture also has a long history. Türkiye coffee is famous for its unique cooking method. Fine coffee powder will be boiled slowly in a special small copper pot. In Istanbul’s cafes, people engage in long conversations while sipping coffee, making them an ideal place for socializing and relaxation.
Going north to the heart of Europe in Vienna, the caf é culture here has been listed as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. Vienna’s cafes are renowned for their nobility and elegance, where customers can enjoy a leisurely day of reading, discussing, or immersing themselves in music and art. The characteristic of Viennese caf é lies in its service, providing not only a cup of coffee, but also a cultural enjoyment.
Flying across the Atlantic, we arrived at the west coast of the United States. Here, coffee shop culture is closely related to innovation, especially in cities like Seattle. American cafes are often vibrant and closely connected to local art and music scenes. The rise of the third wave of coffee movement has also led American coffee shops to pay more attention to the origin, roasting process, and brewing techniques of coffee.
Finally, we arrived in the east, Kyoto, Japan. In this ancient city, tradition and modernity are intertwined, and cafes are no exception. Japanese people’s love for coffee is reflected in their attention to details, whether it is the brewing method of coffee or the design of coffee shops, both of which reveal a refined and exquisite style. In the alleys of Kyoto, you can find antique coffee shops or experience avant-garde modern coffee bars.
Coffee culture is a microcosm of world culture, crossing borders and integrating traditions and innovations from various regions. Every cup of coffee, every caf é, tells a story about time, place, and people. In these stories, we not only tasted the flavor of coffee, but also experienced the depth and breadth of different cultures. And this coffee shop tour around the world may just be the beginning of your coffee culture exploration journey.
