Coffee Culture
Latest articles, industry insights and brewing guides
Key Moments in Global Coffee History
From 1688 Boston coffeehouses to 1901 Japanese instant coffee, trace the major milestones in global coffee’s development.
How Coffee Spread Across Europe and the Americas
Trace coffee’s 17th-century journey from the Middle East to Venice, London, Paris, and New York with key dates and trading routes.
The Early History of Coffee: From Ethiopia to Istanbul
Discover how coffee spread from Ethiopia to the Islamic world, from its early use as a forbidden stimulant to the first cafés in Istanbul.
Dubai to Ban Shisha Cafés Breaking Smoking Laws
By year-end, Dubai authorities will shut down shisha cafés not following anti-smoking rules. Smaller venues have nearly a year to relocate.
How to Taste Coffee Without Distorting Its Flavor
Avoid milk, sugar, and drinking cold—here’s how to taste coffee purely and get the full sensory experience.
How African Coffee Shops and Ceremonies Shaped My Coffee Life
From Nairobi’s JAVA cafés to Ethiopian home coffee rituals, discover how African coffee culture shaped one traveler’s love for specialty coffee.
How Austrian Coffee Culture Began — and Thrives Today
Austria’s coffee habit started in 1687 after Turkish troops left bags behind. Discover how Vienna’s cafes became cultural staples over 300 years.
How Water Quality Affects Your Coffee Taste
Learn why soft tap water often brews better coffee than hard mineral water—and how to adjust your water for the best cup.
Understanding Coffee Acidity, Sweetness, Body, and Bitterness
Learn how roast level, origin, and processing shape your coffee’s flavor—acidic brightness, sweet depth, bold body, and bitterness explained.
How to Politely Decline More Omani Coffee
In Oman, not shaking your coffee cup signals you want another cup—learn the local tradition to avoid over-caffeinating.
How Greek Coffee Divination Really Works
Greek coffee divination, or ‘tasseography’ with coffee grounds, began in Ottoman-era regions. Here’s how it started, how to read the cup, and what makes it unique.
How to Read Coffee Grounds for Divination
Learn the step-by-step method for coffee ground reading, using leftover Turkish or Greek coffee sediments to interpret patterns and predict outcomes.
How People Drink Coffee Around the World
Explore unique coffee traditions in the U.S., Turkey, Italy, Central Europe, and the UK — from strong espresso to spicy Turkish brews.
How Different Countries Drink Their Coffee
Discover how coffee traditions vary worldwide—from Nordic simplicity to Turkish intensity—with deep dives into regional brewing styles.
The History of Coffee Culture in Japan
From its 17th-century arrival in Nagasaki to postwar revival, here’s how Japan embraced coffee through literary salons and mass-market cafés.
How Arabs Drink and Interpret Their Strong Coffee
Arab-style coffee, or Turkish coffee, is small, dark, and unsweetened by default. Learn how it’s brewed, served, and used to signal hospitality—or rejection.
Where Does Ice Drip Coffee Come From?
Ice drip coffee originated in Europe, developed using a Dutch-designed cold water extraction device. It typically takes around 8 hours to brew.
When Rulers Banned Coffee – A Look at Historic Coffee Prohibitions
From 16th-century Mecca to 18th-century Germany, coffee has faced bans over fears of dissent and lost tax revenue. Discover the surprising reasons behind these historical crackdowns.
How Coffee Beans Became the Base for a Sweet Liqueur
Yes, coffee can be turned into alcohol — over 300 years ago. Discover the origins, recipe, and modern uses of coffee liqueur like Kahlúa.
The Long History of French Coffee Culture
Explore how coffee became integral to French life, from 17th-century Parisian cafés to Bordeaux’s enduring roasting traditions.