The Coffee Experience throughout Europe
Europe is the birthplace of coffee culture. Europeans drink the most coffee per capita, more than any other continent in the world! According to the International Coffee Organization, in 2021, Europeans consumed 54,065 60kg bags of coffee, compared to America’s consumption of 31,000 60kg bags. For context, that means Europe consumed over 463 million shots of espresso! Culturally, local cafes are gathering places for friends and family to meet up and socialize throughout the week. A major difference between the coffee culture in America and Europe is the absence of coffee chains like Dunkin Donuts and Starbucks. Though you will find some locations, the industry is dominated by local shops, providing a unique and authentic experience that you can’t find anywhere else.
In this blog, I break down the coffee scenes in the four countries where I’ve had the best experiences: Italy, France, Spain, and England.
Italy: The Home of Espresso
Italy is the epicenter of espresso coffee culture and, personally, my favorite place to enjoy a classic cappuccino! The Italian coffee experience is all about simplicity and tradition. Italians typically start their day with a cappuccino, a delightful blend of espresso, steamed milk, and foam, enjoyed at the bar counter of a local cafe. Throughout the day, Italians sip on espresso, known simply as “caffè,” often standing up, as these coffee rituals are quick but deeply ingrained in daily life.
Fun Tip: Italians are really particular about not ordering a cappuccino after 11:30am. It is considered a morning drink and you may be frowned upon for ordering one later in the day. If you need some milk to dilute the strong espresso, a macchiato is a good option for an afternoon pick-me-up!
Italian cafes (also known as “bars”) offer a variety of espresso-based drinks to suit different tastes:
- Cappuccino: A morning staple, this consists of equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam, often enjoyed with a cornetto (Italian sweet rendition of a croissant).
- Latte: Known in Italy as a “caffè latte,” this drink is primarily made of steamed milk with a shot of espresso, usually served in a larger cup. Careful not to order a “latte” (which is the Italian word for milk) or you’ll end up with a glass of milk!
- Macchiato: This is an espresso shot “stained” with a small amount of milk foam, offering a slightly softer take on the robust espresso.
- Espresso: after diner as a straight shot or in a slice of tiramisu
France: Sophistication in a Cup
France expanded on Italian coffee culture and added in a touch of sophistication. In French cafes, you’ll find interesting renditions on espresso, such as café crème, a rich espresso topped with hot, foamed milk, creating a creamy and satisfying beverage. The French press technique, also known as a cafetière, is another French contribution to the world of coffee, allowing for a more immersive and flavorful coffee experience. French cafes are characterized by their charming ambiance, with outdoor seating where people can leisurely enjoy their coffee while people-watching, engaging in conversation, or reading a book.
French coffee culture is less about quick consumption and more about the experience. Typical options include:
- Café Crème: Similar to a cappuccino but with a stronger emphasis on the creaminess of the milk, often enjoyed during leisurely breakfasts.
- Café au Lait: This home-brewed classic involves equal parts coffee and steamed milk, perfect for morning or evening coffee moments.
- Espresso: A strong shot of coffee that serves as the foundation for most French coffee drinks.
Spain: Unique and Flavorful
Spain offers a unique take on coffee with its signature café con leche, a smooth and rich blend of espresso and scalded milk. This beloved drink is a staple in Spanish cafes and is often enjoyed with breakfast pastries like churros. Spanish coffee culture is relaxed and social, with cafes serving as vibrant hubs for community interaction. The Spanish “sobremesa,” the tradition of relaxing and chatting after a meal, often extends to coffee time, making it a leisurely and enjoyable part of the day.
Spain boasts unique and intriguing options including:
- Cafe con Leche: A milk-based espresso drink, similar to cappuccino with a high concentration of less foamy steamed milk.
- Cortado: A balanced mix of espresso and a small amount of warm milk, designed to “cut” the intensity of the espresso while maintaining its robust flavor.
- Carajillo: Espresso with a splash of liquor, typically brandy or whiskey, often enjoyed as a post-meal drink.
England: London’s Trendy Coffee Scene
My experience of English coffee is mostly centered around London, where there is a thriving progressive coffee culture. Commonly dubbed the third wave coffee movement, London coffee shops focus on high-quality coffee beans that are sustainably sourced and expertly brewed. The emphasis is on craftsmanship, with baristas taking pride in their brewing techniques and presentation. In addition to the plethora of independent cafes, London also has its own coffee chains like Caffè Nero and Costa Coffee, which offer a cozy and familiar environment for coffee lovers. The London coffee scene is diverse and dynamic, reflecting the city’s cosmopolitan vibe.
While London is not known for creating their own, unique coffee beverages, they do a great job at offering experimental renditions of classic coffees!
London’s coffee culture is marked by a few key features:
- Third Wave Coffee: Emphasizes quality, origin, and brewing techniques. Shops like Monmouth Coffee and Workshop Coffee are pioneers in this movement.
- Independent Cafes: Places like Kaffeine and The Attendant offer unique atmospheres and expertly crafted beverages.
- Coffee Festivals: Events like the London Coffee Festival celebrate the city’s vibrant coffee scene with tastings, workshops, and competitions.
Conclusion
Exploring the coffee culture across Europe is a delightful journey through history, tradition, and innovation. Each country offers its unique take on coffee, making every cafe visit a special experience. Whether you prefer the robust espresso of Italy, the sophisticated café crème of France, the flavorful café con leche of Spain, or the artisanal brews of London’s third wave coffee shops, Europe’s rich coffee culture has something to offer every coffee enthusiast!
