Coffee across cultures: traditions and practices

Turkey and its traditions

In Turkey, coffee is more than just a beverage; it's a cultural experience steeped in tradition. Turkish coffee is prepared with very finely ground beans, cooked with sugar in a cezve, a small pan, until it foams. Served in small cups, it's known for its strong flavor and thick texture. After enjoying the coffee, it's customary to read the patterns left by the grounds at the bottom of the cup, a practice that transforms coffee drinking into a moment of conviviality and divination. It is also a very widespread practice in the Balkans, the region from which it originates the Okuka family, owner of Café Castelo.

☕️ Coffee suggestion: try the Black Honey which is perfect for Turkish-style infusion and obviously the Malabar which is inspired by Turkish culture.

Italy and espresso

In Italy, espresso is a true institution. Consumed quickly at the café bar, often standing up, the Italian espresso offers a dynamic break from the daily grind. Beyond the simple espresso, Italians also enjoy "caffè corretto"—an espresso "corrected" with a splash of liqueur—as a digestif after dinner. This tradition underscores the importance of coffee in Italian social life and gastronomy.

☕️ Coffee suggestion: try the Three Mountains, THE Calamari, THE Catalana and theEspresso, four exclusive blends at Café Castelo, inspired by Italian culture.

Scandinavian filter coffee

In Scandinavian countries, coffee is synonymous with conviviality and comfort, especially during the traditional coffee break known as "fika" in Sweden. Filter coffee, often light and consumed in large quantities, is central to this daily ritual, which is both a moment of respite and an opportunity to connect with others. The quality of the coffee is paramount, which explains why Scandinavians are among the world's biggest consumers of specialty coffee.

☕️ Coffee suggestion: THE Classic, an exclusive blend from Café Castelo which is well appreciated by filter coffee lovers.

Ethiopian coffee: ceremony and community

Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee, honors its discovery with a coffee ceremony that embodies the essence of Ethiopian hospitality. The process includes roasting fresh beans, grinding them, and brewing them in a clay pot called a "jebena." Served with popcorn or bread, the coffee is first offered to the elders, then to all the guests, in a gesture of friendship and respect. This ceremony can last several hours, strengthening community bonds.

☕️ Coffee suggestion: the Yirgacheffe, A top-rated coffee on the international scene, it has been one of our best-selling coffees for 27 years. Lovers of intense coffee will be delighted.

Every cup of coffee we serve at Café Castelo is an invitation to explore and appreciate the rich coffee traditions of the world. By choosing our coffee, you're not just enjoying a quality beverage, but also experiencing a global story of community and culture.