We’ve all been there: you sit down with a steaming cup of coffee, feeling accomplished, only to realize you’ve just committed a major coffee faux pas. Maybe it’s adding sugar where you shouldn’t, or slurping too loudly in a country where that’s a crime against taste buds. Whatever it is, coffee etiquette is one of those things that can sneak up on you when you least expect it – especially when traveling!
But don’t worry! In this article, we’re going to reveal some forgotten coffee etiquette rules from around the world. These hidden gems will not only make you look like a savvy traveler but also help you avoid a raised eyebrow (or two) the next time you sip your brew abroad. Let’s dive in!
Never Order a Cappuccino After 11 AM in Italy
You might think coffee is a 24-hour affair, but in Italy, there’s a clear line in the sand – or rather, the foam. Cappuccinos, with their creamy milkiness, are strictly a morning indulgence. If you order one after 11 AM, brace yourself for some puzzled looks or polite giggles. Why? Italians believe that milky coffee after breakfast disrupts digestion.
So, what’s the solution? Stick to an espresso in the afternoon and save the cappuccino for your next morning. You’ll blend in with the locals and avoid being pegged as a tourist too early in the day!
In Turkey, Wait for the Invitation
In Turkey, coffee isn’t just a drink; it’s a ceremony. When someone offers you a Turkish coffee, don’t rush to gulp it down. Tradition dictates that you wait until the host initiates the first sip. Turkish coffee is brewed thick, strong, and served in tiny cups, but it’s meant to be enjoyed slowly.
While you wait, it’s also a chance to engage in conversation – after all, coffee culture in Turkey is about more than just caffeine. It’s a social ritual, and the unspoken rule is that good company should last as long as the brew.
Stirring Coffee in Portugal is a Delicate Art
You might think stirring coffee is as simple as swirling your spoon around, but in Portugal, there’s a bit of finesse involved. When you’re given a cup of espresso, or bica, resist the temptation to stir with gusto. Portuguese tradition prefers a gentle stir, if at all, so as not to disturb the crema – the prized golden layer on top.
Next time you’re in a Portuguese café, take your time. Sip slowly, stir subtly, and appreciate the art that is Portuguese coffee. Bonus: you’ll avoid making any unwanted waves – literally!
In Sweden, Fika is Non-Negotiable
Swedes take their coffee breaks seriously. In fact, they’ve even got a word for it – fika. But fika isn’t just about grabbing a coffee; it’s a cultural institution. If someone invites you for fika, it’s a friendly gesture, and saying no can be seen as quite rude.
A typical fika involves coffee and a pastry, and it’s all about slowing down, socializing, and reconnecting with friends or colleagues. So, next time you’re in Sweden, never say no to a fika – it’s more than a break, it’s a way of life!
Don’t Expect Coffee with Your Meal in France
In France, coffee is savored after the meal, never during. If you try to order a coffee alongside your lunch or dinner, you might receive a confused look from the waiter. The French believe that coffee should be enjoyed once the meal is finished, serving as the perfect end to a culinary experience.
Instead, ask for your café once the dessert is done. It’s a moment to pause, reflect on the meal, and enjoy a strong shot of espresso to cap off the dining experience in true French style.
In Ethiopia, Coffee is Sacred
Ethiopia is often called the birthplace of coffee, so it’s no surprise that they take their coffee rituals seriously. The Ethiopian coffee ceremony is a social event that can last hours, so it’s not something to rush through. If you’re ever invited to one, know that you’re expected to stay for at least three rounds of coffee.
The ceremony involves roasting green coffee beans, grinding them by hand, and brewing the coffee in a special pot called a jebena. Patience is key, and while you may be used to grabbing a quick cup on the go, in Ethiopia, coffee is something to be savored, both in taste and tradition.
Never Ask for Decaf in Greece
When in Greece, one simply does not ask for decaf. Greek coffee is strong, bold, and a point of national pride. Decaf? That’s a concept for another country. The traditional Greek coffee is served in a small cup with a thick layer of grounds at the bottom, and it’s all about savoring the robust flavor.
So, if you’re not up for a caffeine hit, consider skipping coffee altogether. Ordering decaf could lead to raised eyebrows, if not outright confusion!
In Colombia, Coffee is Sweetened Without Asking
If you’re a no-sugar person, you might want to speak up in Colombia. The locals love their coffee sweet, and it’s often served with sugar pre-mixed in. Coffee here, known as tinto, is usually brewed strong and served in small cups.
To avoid any surprises, let your host or server know upfront if you prefer your coffee without sugar. That way, you can enjoy your cup just the way you like it, without having to dodge the sweetness.
In Japan, Coffee Can Be Silent
Japan’s coffee culture is rising fast, but you won’t find much chit-chat when you visit a Japanese café. Unlike the bustling coffee shops of the West, Japanese cafés are often serene places where people come to relax or read in peace.
If you’re visiting a café in Japan, keep your voice down and avoid loud conversations. It’s all about respect for the quiet atmosphere, which is a welcome change from the typical noisy coffee scene many of us are used to!
Slurping is Encouraged in Vietnam
In Vietnam, the coffee game is strong, especially when it comes to their famous cà phê sữa đá – iced coffee with condensed milk. But here’s a tip that might surprise you: slurping your coffee is perfectly acceptable, if not encouraged!
Why? Slurping enhances the coffee’s flavor, particularly when it’s served iced. So, go ahead and enjoy that cà phê with a noisy sip – it’s all part of the experience!
Coffee Cups Without Handles in the Middle East
In many Middle Eastern countries, coffee is traditionally served in cups without handles. These small cups, known as finjan, are held carefully between your thumb and fingers. It’s a bit of a balancing act, but here’s the rule: only fill the cup halfway.
Filling the cup to the brim is considered impolite, as it indicates that you’re trying to rush the guest. Instead, offer half a cup, and refill as needed – showing hospitality with every pour.
Conclusion
Who knew coffee could come with so many unspoken rules? Whether you’re sipping espresso in Italy or iced coffee in Vietnam, remember these forgotten etiquette rules. They will help you blend in with the locals and maybe earn a nod from the barista.
Have you ever experienced a surprising coffee custom while travelling? Share your story with us on our Facebook page!