Whether grabbing an espresso on your way to work, cooling off with an afternoon cold brew, or lingering over an evening coffee and liqueur, the world’s second-most popular beverage (after water) has continued to bring energy and comfort to millions worldwide.
Ethiopia is considered to be the country of origin for coffee beginning in the early 15th century. And since then, distinctive coffee cultures have advanced throughout the centuries, each offering their own take on the preparation and presentation. From Vienna to Vietnam and beyond, traditions continue to evolve with new generations enjoying the beloved drink in more varieties than ever.
Viennese Coffee House Culture
Although Europe’s first coffee house opened in Venice in 1647, Vienna has become the undisputed European capital of coffee house culture. In fact, in 2011 the Viennese coffee house culture was included by UNESCO in the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage!
Coffee beans were discovered by accident in Vienna in 1863 when they were abandoned by fleeing Turkish invaders. Thanks to a resourceful Army officer, the beans were soon processed into a beverage, leading to Vienna’s first coffee house.
What makes a Viennese coffee house so unique? Much more than a café, it represents a lifestyle – and a nostalgic glance into the city’s past. A typical coffee house is marked by baroque high-ceilinged rooms, marble-topped tables, and ornate chandeliers. The ambiance is perfect for endless hours of sipping, reading and delicious people watching – all with the purchase of just one cup of coffee!
Change up your Javatino coffee routine by trying out the following traditional Viennese coffee recipes. Feeling extra decadent? Add a slice of Sachertorte!
Einspänner (named from the traditional one-horse carriage of 19th century Vienna)
Pour a double shot of Cuba Joe’s Espresso into a glass with a handle. Add about 1 oz. of water and top with a dollop of whipped cream.
Wiener Eiskaffee (Viennese Iced Coffee)
Cover two scoops of ice cream with cold milk. Add two shots of Cuba Joe’s Espresso. Serve in a tall glass with long spoon.
“Den and Nau” – Vietnam Emerges on the Global Coffee Scene
It was the French who first introduced coffee to Vietnam in the mid-19th century. And now coffee has become to Vietnam what tea is to Japan, representing the second-largest exporter of coffee after Brazil.
The traditional Vietnamese drip coffee is a mainstay, served in the city markets, shops, and enjoyed at home. The simple preparation involves adding ground coffee to a metal filter, or phin, then adding water to produce the strong black coffee, known as Den. For those craving a smoother taste, just add condensed milk to create the popular Nau. Condensed milk was originally used by the French when it was difficult to find fresh milk, and today is the preferred ingredient in this traditional coffee beverage.
The Vietnamese have taken a bold and creative approach to coffee. A variety of ingredients – from eggs to avocado – are combined to create sweet and savory local favorites. Create your own version of Vietnamese Egg Coffee, found in the country’s trendiest cafés:
Vietnamese Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng)
Add 3 tablespoons of dark roast coffee grounds (such as Javatino French Roast) to filter. Add a cup of boiling water. Prepare egg mixture by mixing together 2 egg yolks and 2 teaspoons of condensed milk. Whisk vigorously until the color lightens. After pouring a cup of coffee, add the fluffy egg mixture on top. Enjoy the rich flavor!
Javatino Coffee Culture
Javatino founder and CEO, José Estorino, has traveled the globe to search out the best quality, organic and fair-trade coffee. From Brazil to East Java – and everywhere in between – José works with local farmers and suppliers to ensure the freshest and highest quality coffee for his customers. Looking for a local Orlando coffee supplier? Look no further than Javatino for the best selection of single-origin and blended coffees. Shop Javatino online or call us at 407-740-6625.