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- COFFEE CULTURE AROUND THE WORLD

COFFEE CULTURE AROUND THE WORLD

Coffee is not just a beverage; it is a cultural hallmark in many countries worldwide. From small roadside cafés to globally renowned brands, coffee has become an indispensable part of daily life. It is not merely a drink but a bridge that connects communities, sparks inspiration, and creates unforgettable moments.

In this article, Grand Mercure Hanoi invites you on a journey across different countries to experience the unique flavors of coffee and the cultural stories behind each cup.

1/ Coffee Culture in France

When thinking of French coffee culture, one cannot help but picture charming sidewalk cafés where people leisurely sip their coffee, read newspapers, engage in conversation, or simply watch the world go by. For the French, coffee is more than just a drink—it is a way of life, a moment to slow down and embrace the art of relaxation.

Unhurried and not merely a means to stay awake, French coffee culture is a symbol of tranquility—an invitation to pause and savor life’s quiet moments amid the hustle and bustle. It embodies an elegant and poetic way of living.

2/ Coffee Culture in Italy

When talking about Italy, one cannot overlook espresso—the bold and intense coffee that has become a cultural icon. As the birthplace of renowned coffee drinks like cappuccino and macchiato, Italians see coffee not just as a beverage but as an art form—an essential part of their daily life.

Unlike the leisurely coffee culture of the French, Italians enjoy their coffee quickly and efficiently, often standing at the bar in small cafés, taking a swift sip of espresso before continuing with their day. This habit reflects the fast-paced lifestyle and pragmatic spirit of the Italians. Coffee is typically consumed in the morning or midday as a boost of energy, but there is one important rule: no cappuccino after the morning, as Italians believe the milk in cappuccino is best suited for breakfast and not for consumption after meals.

Though simple and quick, Italian coffee culture is infused with elegance and passion. Every bold espresso, every velvety layer of cappuccino foam, and every distinct macchiato embodies the Italian love for coffee—where each sip carries the essence of artistry and tradition.

3/ Coffee Culture in the US

American coffee culture is closely tied to convenience and a fast-paced lifestyle. Unlike the leisurely coffee rituals of the French or the quick espresso shots at the bar in Italy, Americans favor the take-away model, often carrying their coffee on the go. Drip coffee is a popular choice due to its convenience, saving time while providing a steady supply of energy for the busy day ahead.

In the United States, coffee is not just a beverage; it is an integral part of the work culture. The image of coffee cups alongside laptops, meetings held at coffee shops, and office workers starting their day with an Americano has become a familiar sight. Famous brands like Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts have played a significant role in shaping modern coffee culture, offering a wide variety of options ranging from Americano, cold brew, latte, to frappuccino.

While American coffee culture may not emphasize artistry like Italian coffee or relaxation like French coffee, it reflects a dynamic, practical, and ever-moving lifestyle—where coffee serves as the energy source that helps people keep pace with their busy lives every day.

4/ Coffee Culture in Vietnam

Vietnam’s coffee culture has its own distinct charm—slow, relaxed, and completely different from the rush of American coffee culture or the quick espresso rituals of Italy. Cà phê phin (Vietnamese drip coffee) is the symbol of Vietnamese coffee culture, where each drop slowly drips into the cup, creating a tranquil moment amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. Coffee here is not just a beverage; it is a habit, a way of life that reflects the culture of Vietnam.

With its rich flavor, Vietnamese coffee is often paired with condensed milk, creating the iconic cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk), a rich and delicious specialty that has put Vietnamese coffee on the map. In addition, unique variations such as cà phê trứng (egg coffee) and bạc xỉu (a lighter, milkier coffee) contribute to the diversity of coffee enjoyment in Vietnam.

The coffee spaces in Vietnam also have their own distinctive touch, from simple street-side cafés where people sip coffee and chat, to vintage-style cafés or peaceful garden cafés filled with poetic charm. No matter where you are, enjoying coffee in Vietnam is not just about staying awake—it’s about savoring every moment, connecting with others, and fully experiencing the flavor of life.

5/ Check out Văn’s Lounge, Grand Mercure Hanoi

Each culture has its own way of enjoying coffee, from the intensity of Italian espresso, the elegance of French café au lait, to the convenience of American Americano or the relaxed pace of Vietnamese cà phê phin. If you want to explore these distinctive coffee styles in one place, Văn’s Lounge at Grand Mercure Hanoi is the perfect destination.

Located in the hotel lobby, Văn’s Lounge is not only the ideal spot for enjoying coffee, but also the perfect venue for afternoon tea, fine wine, or whisky with friends and business partners. The elegant and tranquil setting, combined with a diverse menu of beverages, promises to provide memorable experiences.

At Văn’s Lounge – Grand Mercure Hanoi, guests can not only enjoy their coffee but also discover the subtle differences between coffee styles from around the world—all within a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere right in the heart of Hanoi.

Check out the beverage and afternoon tea menu at Văn’s Lounge at: Link