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Greek Cafe

The Coffee Culture of Greece: A Way of Life

Stroll through the streets of any Greek city, and you’ll quickly notice something special, the countless bustling cafés filled with locals leisurely sipping their coffee. Most Greeks love sitting outdoors, making the most of the famously sunny weather. Whether chatting with friends, passionately competing in endless rounds of tavli (backgammon), playing a casual game of cards, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean sun, this café tradition is cherished by all generations.

In Greece, going out for coffee isn’t just a quick caffeine fix, it’s an essential social ritual, a cornerstone of everyday life. Hours pass unnoticed amid lively conversations and laughter, forging bonds and friendships that last a lifetime or at least until the cups are empty and the bill arrives! Indeed, coffee culture here goes beyond a drink, it’s a way of life.

The Legendary Frappe

Maybe you’ve already heard of frappe, the former king of coffees in Greece that’s still beloved by many today. Fun fact: frappe was invented almost by accident in Thessaloniki back in 1957 during the Thessaloniki International Fair. A Nestlé representative was demonstrating an instant chocolate drink for children, shaking chocolate powder with milk in a shaker. Inspired by this method, instant coffee, water, and sugar were shaken together, and just like that, the iconic frappe was born. A proper frappe is creamy, strong, and refreshingly cold, served exactly how you like it: sketo (no sugar), metrio (medium sweet), or glyko (sweet).

Frappe
Freddo on a patio

Freddo Espresso: The Modern Favorite

In recent years, frappe has lost its crown to the increasingly popular freddo espresso. This modern favorite has captured many hearts with its rich aroma and bold taste. Essentially, freddo espresso is espresso shaken over ice, making it the ideal energizing drink for tough days at university or at work. There’s also the delicious freddo cappuccino variation, topped with whipped milk foam that adds a delightfully smooth texture to your coffee experience.

Freddo Espresso: The Modern Favorite

In recent years, frappe has lost its crown to the increasingly popular freddo espresso. This modern favorite has captured many hearts with its rich aroma and bold taste. Essentially, freddo espresso is espresso shaken over ice, making it the ideal energizing drink for tough days at university or at work. There’s also the delicious freddo cappuccino variation, topped with whipped milk foam that adds a delightfully smooth texture to your coffee experience.

Freddo on a patio

Greek Coffee: A Cup Full of History

You might find yourself enjoying a smooth, velvety cup of Greek coffee at a Thessaloniki café, only to overhear someone cheekily whisper, “You know it’s actually Turkish coffee, right?” And, well, they might have a point, but hey we’re not trying to brew up trouble here! This coffee, steeped in centuries of swirling grounds and stories, seems to change nationality depending on who’s pouring. Turks, Greeks, Armenians, Arabs, everyone claims this charming little brew as their own. But let’s keep it simple: when in Thessaloniki, it’s best called Greek coffee, trust us, the coffee tastes better this way!

Greek coffee

Whether you’re already familiar with Greek coffee traditions or you’re discovering them for the first time, exploring the cafés of Thessaloniki is an experience you won’t want to miss. Take your time, enjoy every sip, and soak in the relaxed coffee culture like a true local. And who knows, we might just come back soon with some of our favorite café recommendations to help you get the most out of your next coffee adventure in the city!

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