History of Coffee Culture in Different Countries (Part 2)
Introduction
Continuing our journey through global coffee traditions, let us turn our attention to other countries that have made a significant contribution to shaping unique coffee cultures. Each region tells its own story, preserving traditions passed down from generation to generation.
Vietnam: Unique Coffee Traditions
Vietnam has one of the most fascinating coffee cultures in the world, shaped by colonial history, economic challenges, and local preferences. Coffee here is not merely a beverage — it has become part of everyday life, reflecting the national spirit of creativity and adaptability.
The beginnings of coffee culture in Vietnam. Coffee was introduced to Vietnam by French colonizers in the 19th century. Initially, Arabica was cultivated mainly for European needs. However, due to climatic conditions and economic challenges, local farmers began growing Robusta, which is less demanding in terms of weather and soil. Today, Robusta makes up the majority of Vietnamese production, making the country the second-largest coffee exporter in the world.
Vietnamese coffee today: egg, condensed milk, and ice. One of the most famous coffee innovations in the country is egg coffee (cà phê trứng). This drink appeared in the 1940s when milk was scarce. Whipped egg yolks with sugar and condensed milk create a creamy foam that perfectly complements strong black coffee. Equally popular is iced coffee with condensed milk (cà phê sữa đá), ideal for the hot tropical climate.
Coffee traditions and philosophy. In Vietnam, drinking coffee is an unhurried ritual. In cozy street cafés or under the shade of bamboo groves, people usually brew coffee using a “phin” filter, which slowly drips water through the grounds, allowing the flavor and aroma to fully develop. It is also a moment of calm and relaxation in busy daily life.
The importance of coffee for culture and the economy. Vietnamese coffee reflects the historical challenges the country has faced and its ability to find creative solutions. The coffee industry provides employment to millions of people, and coffee itself has become one of the symbols of national ingenuity.
Italy: Elegance and Espresso Traditions
Italy is the birthplace of many popular coffee drinks and a symbol of espresso culture. Here, coffee is not just a beverage but an art form that includes strict traditions, social rituals, and a certain etiquette followed for generations.
The beginnings of coffee culture in Italy. Coffee first appeared in the country at the end of the 16th century when it reached Venice from the East. In the 17th century, the first coffeehouse opened in Venice, popularizing the drink among different social classes.
The invention of espresso. The early 20th century became a turning point for coffee in Italy when Luigi Bezzera constructed the first espresso machine. From that moment, espresso became the foundation of Italian coffee culture, giving the world cappuccino, latte, and macchiato.
France: Coffee as Part of the Artistic Bohemia
France is famous for its coffee culture, which combines aesthetics, intellectualism, and bohemian spirit. Local cafés became centers of inspiration, meeting places, and important hubs of cultural life, remaining a significant part of French identity.
The beginning of coffee history in France. The drink arrived in France in the 17th century thanks to active trade with the East. The first Parisian café, Le Procope, opened in 1686 and quickly became a meeting place for writers and philosophers.
The French approach to coffee. Unlike the “quick” Italian culture, the French value taking their time with coffee. They prefer larger cups with milk, such as café au lait, and spend long hours in cafés reading or talking with friends. In the 19th and 20th centuries, Parisian cafés became centers of intellectual life where ideas of modernism and existentialism were born.
Japan: Coffee Through the Lens of Ritual and Precision
Although Japan is famous for its centuries-old tea traditions, coffee has found an important place in its culture thanks to the Japanese love for detail, aesthetics, and top quality.
The history of coffee in Japan and its methodical brewing approach. Coffee reached Japan via European trade routes in the 18th century but gained popularity only at the beginning of the 20th century. In Tokyo, kissaten — cafés with a distinctive retro atmosphere — began to appear, offering high-quality coffee. Today, the Japanese are known for their precise and methodical brewing techniques, promoting pour-over methods (V60) and cold brew.
Café culture. From traditional kissaten to modern third-wave cafés, each establishment aims to combine design, art, and culinary craftsmanship. Japanese coffee culture focuses on carefully selected beans and perfection in every detail.
China: Coffee Against the Background of Tea Tradition
China is a country with deeply rooted tea traditions, yet in recent decades coffee has gained noticeable popularity, especially in megacities. The younger generation increasingly turns to café culture as a symbol of a modern lifestyle.
The beginning of coffee history in China. The first mentions of coffee date back to the 19th century when Western missionaries introduced it to Yunnan province. However, intensive development of the coffee industry began only at the end of the 20th century with the progress of globalization.
Production and consumption culture. Today, Yunnan province is the main coffee-growing region in China. At the same time, coffee culture is rapidly developing in major cities, offering both Western classic drinks and local experiments with flavors typical of China (such as lychee, pitaya, etc.).
Conclusion
Coffee is not just a beverage — it is a true cultural phenomenon reflecting the history, traditions, and social characteristics of each country. From Vietnamese egg coffee to Italian espresso, from the bohemian cafés of France to Japanese brewing precision — each region has its own approach and unique charm.
These stories speak about people, their creativity, adaptability, and dedication to preserving heritage. Coffee connects cultures, becoming a bridge between different societies, historical eras, and lifestyles. In the modern world, it remains a symbol of communication, inspiration, and exchange — a small daily ritual with great cultural significance.
By brewing a cup of coffee, we join a global community, tasting a story that travels across continents and generations.