Coffee Drinking Culture Around the World

Coffee as a beverage has transcended borders, slotting itself almost effortlessly into wildly different cultures across the globe. With that said, different regions and countries have varying ideas on how to indulge in a cup of coffee. In this article, find out how billions of coffee enthusiasts enjoy this beverage.

Exploring Global Coffee Drinking Culture

Coffee has evolved greatly from being a simple drink, it has turned into a bit of a comfort and a cultural aspect of various countries across the world. While some countries have considered it a primary choice for a quick pick-me-up in the morning, some others have turned coffee into an entire experience of its own, highlighting the techniques in coffee-making and the atmosphere of coffee houses.

Additionally, there have been numerous recipes to make coffee. From a humble berry, coffee enthusiasts have created iconic variations like espresso, milk coffee, americano, and cappuccino as well as interesting versions like the frappuccino, cold brew, and salt coffee.

Coffee Consumption by Country

Globally, coffee consumption grows at a steady pace year-by-year, especially when coffee production from the likes of Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, and Ethiopia is going very strong.

When it comes to consumption, Europe leads the entire world with Finland, Norway, and Luxembourg being the stand out countries. With the “fika” culture, which can be understood as a coffee break but more deeply rooted in the sense of community, coffee is quite celebrated in these countries.

Other nations like Vietnam, Italy, and Brazil also have rich coffee traditions, but the way they enjoy coffee is vastly different, with numerous versions created throughout the years. However, one thing stays the same, coffee has become somewhat of a go-to option for social gatherings in many countries.

Coffee Consumption in the United States

How about in cultures where individualism reigns supreme? In the US, while social gatherings are commonplace, people may be more inclined to keep to themselves and go about their day. With that said, coffee remains a part of the American lifestyle.

Americans embrace coffee as part of their daily routine, with their morning coffee being untouchable in a normal day. Therefore, coffee shops have gained tremendous popularity, with lines of people every morning looking to get their daily dose of caffeine. They are still social gathering hubs, however, as friend groups, families, and business partners come to these cafes to chat and have discussions, though it is mostly reserved for people that are already acquainted with each other.

On another note, specialty coffee is a big thing in America, with baristas crafting personalized beverages that cater to individual tastes. Major global coffee brands have had their start in the US and taken over the world, largely in part thanks to their unique creations and giving customers the ability to make their own drinks.

Coffee Consumption in Europe and South America

For other parts of the world like Europe and South America, they each have their own distinct coffee styles. Italians, for example, love their espresso. A quick, strong shot of coffee, it can give you a great boost of energy while treating your palate to a great experience. In contrast, the coffee culture in romantic France involves sitting down to savor a leisurely café au lait at adorable cafes.

Brazil, home to the world’s largest coffee producers, celebrates coffee as part of everyday life with what is called cafezinho, and the same goes to the rest of South America. They take great pride in their coffee beans and have integrated the drink into their routine pretty much effortlessly.

Coffee vs. Tea: Cultural Preferences Across the Globe

Coffee is popular, there is no doubt about it, but another caffeinated beverage is also quite prominent. Tea has won over regions like the United Kingdom, India, and parts of Asia. They also come in many variations and served in multiple ways.

Colonial trade routes, climate, agriculture, and traditions are some of the reasons why tea gains its popularity. For example, in China, tea holds a ceremonial importance, symbolizing respect and culture. It is commonly seen in important occasions like weddings or the Lunar New Year celebrations.

Meanwhile, the U.S. does not have tea in their traditions and customs, so it is merely one of the beverage options alongside coffee. Hence, each beverage has a distinct place in different societies.

Why Americans Prefer Coffee Over Tea

The simple explanation is Americans generally prefer the more robust taste of coffee, and since coffee production in the continent is quite substantial, it is natural that coffee becomes their primary drink of choice.

Another reason for the dominance of coffee is rooted in history, though it is not quite proven. The Boston Tea Party in 1773 was a monumental event surrounding taxation on tea, in which Americans threw hundreds of chests containing tea down to the ocean in protest of taxation on tea and monopoly of the East India company. That event drove a large number of people from consuming tea, which allowed the rise of coffee in the continent to take over.

Morning Coffee Habit: A Global Phenomenon

When talking about coffee drinking culture, it is important to omit morning coffee. In fact, many people are living by the humorous motto of “Don’t talk to me until I’ve had my morning coffee.”

The experience is pretty much universal, as people across the globe start their day with a cup of coffee, though with varying preparation techniques. Nonetheless, the morning coffee habit is untouchable as it has become somewhat of an unspoken rule that people should be able to have their morning coffee before starting their day’s work.

Depending on the day, people may have a definition for a morning coffee. It can either be a strong black coffee to wake them up for a busy work day, or a drip coffee to enjoy a chill day.

Rituals Surrounding Morning Coffee

Speaking of different ways to make morning coffee, a few countries have come up with some amazing coffee rituals to enjoy their morning cup of joe. Italy has their world-famous cappuccinos with the frothy milk while Turkish coffee is prepared in a cezve (a long-handled pot) and enjoyed slowly.

Coffee Traditions and Rituals Around the World

Speaking of coffee rituals, there are quite a few and they are not simply different ways to make a cup of coffee. For example, Turkish people use the coffee grounds at the bottom of their cups for fortune telling. Also, in Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee, the coffee ceremony has great spiritual meaning for the locals. Another example hails from Japan in the form of their delectable iced coffee that is enjoyed year-round. Driven by the hard-working culture of Japanese people, this version of iced coffee is quick and easy to make.

Cowboys and Coffee: The American West Tradition

Cowboys are an indispensable part of the Western American culture and coffee was a staple on the trail. These individuals are constantly on the road, so they need something strong to keep them going. That is how cowboy coffee became a thing.

It is somewhat similar to French press coffee. Made over the heat of campfires, this rugged method may seem like a last resort option, but it remains an enduring image of American coffee culture.

The Cultural Practice of Drinking Coffee with Milk

Now for one of the most popular versions of all: milk coffee. The French café au lait, Italian latte, and Vietnamese milk coffee are just a few examples of this widespread tradition.

This creation caters to individuals who love coffee, but prefer something a bit on the milder side. Milk-based coffee versions are usually enjoyed as an afternoon or social beverage, adding some creaminess to the already incredible drink.

Coffee with Milk Around the World

Café au lait and latte are arguably the most common versions but that is far from all. For instance, in Vietnam, condensed milk is used for its signature sweetness and consistency that go perfectly with the robust flavors of Vietnamese coffee.

Coffee Before Bed: Cultural Variations in Coffee Consumption

This may seem strange for many, because most would be unable to sleep when drinking coffee so close to bedtime. However, cultures like the Spanish and Italians consider it completely normal thanks to their tolerance to coffee. Also, drinking coffee at these hours is not really frowned upon as coffee can also be a digestive aid.

The Effect of Coffee on Sleep in Different Cultures

So how are some people not affected by the use of coffee right before bed? The answer is simple, when coffee is such an important part of culture, their bodies have gotten used to the drink, allowing them to still go to sleep easily after coffee. Additionally, metabolism also plays a role in this, but it varies from one person to another so there cannot be a universal explanation.