How Greek Coffee Culture Embraced Italian Espresso

Ever wondered why your Greek friend insists on stopping for an espresso no matter the economic climate? Despite Greece’s financial struggles over the past decade, coffee—especially espresso—remains a non-negotiable part of daily life. But how did Italy’s espresso tradition become such a fixture in Greek cafés, and what does that mean for the country’s own historic coffee culture?

Greek espresso consumption surged over the last 15 years. Euromonitor data shows home espresso machine sales rose 40% from 2008 to 2013 and continued climbing. Today, more Greeks drink espresso than ever—even at home—despite the economic downturn. Socially, coffee remains a key part of identity, with people prioritizing it over other expenses.

What Is Greek Coffee, Really?

Greek coffee isn’t Turkish coffee—it’s the same finely ground, unfiltered brew made in a briki, but Greeks fiercely claim it as their own. Calling it “Turkish coffee” in Greece is still considered offensive. This thick, strong brew, served unfiltered with grounds at the bottom, remains a cultural staple, especially among older generations. It’s typically sipped slowly, often accompanied by conversation and a glass of water.

The Rise of Italian Espresso in Greece

Italian espresso arrived in Greece over 20 years ago but only gained widespread popularity around a decade later. Today, it dominates both street-side cafés and homes. New hotels routinely install espresso machines—a rarity just five years ago, according to Athens architect Yiannis Giannopoulos. For many Greeks, espresso is now seen as trendy and modern. Chrysa Gerolymatou of Mikel Coffee Company notes that until the 1990s, Greeks only had two choices: traditional Greek coffee or instant. Espresso changed that.

Why Greeks Love Their Espresso—and Machines

Greek coffee consumption per capita now rivals or exceeds that of France and Italy, and matches the U.S. Greeks make time weekly to sit in cafés, and espresso has become their drink of choice. Even at home, espresso machine ownership soared. Euromonitor reported a 40% rise in household espresso machine sales between 2008 and 2013, with growth continuing. For many, skipping meals is easier than skipping coffee.

The Fading Frape and the Legacy of Instant Coffee

In the mid-20th century, instant coffee briefly took over as a symbol of Western modernity, helping Greeks feel connected to Europe. This led to the creation of the frappe—a cold, iced instant coffee drink whipped with milk and served with a straw. Once ubiquitous, frappes have now been largely replaced by espresso, which is seen as more versatile and better suited to Greece’s hot climate, whether served hot or over ice.

Will Traditional Greek Coffee Survive?

Greek food critic Marianthi Milona believes traditional coffee won’t disappear entirely, but architect Yiannis Giannopoulos notes it’s fading from daily life. Today, mostly those over 65 stick with the traditional brew, while younger Greeks gravitate toward espresso and modern brewing methods. If current trends continue, Greek coffee could face a slow decline, overshadowed by its Italian counterpart.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Greek coffee and Turkish coffee?

Greek coffee and Turkish coffee are brewed the same way—ultra-fine grind, unfiltered, in a briki—but Greeks consider calling it “Turkish coffee” offensive. It’s a point of national identity, so in Greece, it’s always called Greek coffee, even though the preparation is nearly identical.

Why did espresso become so popular in Greece?

Espresso became popular in Greece due to a mix of social trends and modernization. Seen as fashionable and European, it offered a new coffee experience compared to the traditional or instant options. Over the past 10–15 years, it has come to dominate both cafés and homes.

Do Greeks really drink more coffee than other Europeans?

Yes. Greeks consume coffee at a per capita rate that rivals or exceeds France and Italy, and is similar to the United States. Despite economic challenges, coffee remains a daily priority, often purchased even when other expenses are cut.

What is a frappe and is it still popular?

A frappe is a cold, iced coffee made from instant coffee, sugar, water, and milk, served with a straw. It was hugely popular in the 20th century but has largely been replaced by espresso, which is now preferred for its versatility and suitability to Greece’s climate.

Are traditional Greek coffee drinkers disappearing?

Mostly older Greeks, especially those over 65, still drink traditional coffee regularly. Younger generations increasingly prefer espresso and modern brewing styles, leading to a gradual decline in the everyday presence of Greek-style coffee.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Greek-Style Espresso Pairings

While Greek coffee is traditionally unfiltered and made with a briki, fans of strong, bold brews may enjoy FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Yirgacheffe for its bright acidity and floral notes, or their Brazil Queen Manor for a nutty, chocolatey base that holds up well in milk-based drinks. For something closer in intensity to traditional brews, try their Classic Blend, which offers a balanced, medium-bodied profile ideal for those appreciating robust flavors. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.