Who could have ever guessed that one of the next big things in gourmet movements could be coffee for such a long time? It used to be that coffee was just part of a meal, but now knowing about it is an important part of most foodie repertoires. But more important than if you know some Jamaican Blue from some Java beans, coffee is a beverage for socializing, and a love for coffee helps make it easier to meet people worldwide.
Even in other countries, where the coffee might taste a lot better, it’s not that everyone knows the whole history of their perfect shot of espresso. It’s just that it’s there and it’s tasty and everyone is used to it. Ask around and be surprised at how many people who really enjoy fancy coffee actually don’t know that much about how it’s cultivated or made.
A bit of history on coffee: it’s not something that every country can make, which is why a lot of countries were a little late to the game, or had some seriously sub-par beans for quite some time. And a love for coffee doesn’t mean that you even have tried that many varieties. From Columbia to Jamaica, Kenya to Java, a number of locations all develop their own special types of beans, which can only grow in those climates.
There’s a lot to be said about developing a love for coffee at a younger age. Instead of just getting hopped up on caffeine and sugar, it’s nice to practice drinking such a distinguished beverage. Because really, that’s what coffee ultimately is: a more appropriate social drink that you can’t get drunk on.
Learning to order coffee is one of the most important skills you can have as a socializing grown-up, and if you’re going to be traveling the world and going out with people, there’s no better time to learn than right now. If everyone else is ordering drinks with actual names, and not asking for “a shot” of something, then you need to not order a single or even double espresso. It will be much smaller than their drinks, and you will feel awkward. If bitter things aren’t really your taste, then go for anything with mocha or leche, as you’ll get chocolate and milk to cut the taste of the coffee.
If you’re not a fan of strong coffee, or don’t want to be running around like a speed freak, then get something that’s mostly milk and foam. Look for things involving “leche” in the title, as it will mean that you’re enjoying some mild coffee with a whole lot of cream or milk. And when in doubt, just order what looks like a larger coffee drink. That way, you’ll be able to sip slowly. A love for coffee will not be made by forcing yourself to drink too much of it in a bitter form.
One of the best parts about drinking coffee, especially socially, is the snacks! From Holland to Argentina, you can expect at least a couple of cookies and sometimes even a glass of orange juice, so there’s always something to pick at while you’re enjoying your coffee. It’s also nice, if you haven’t eaten, to put something in your stomach that isn’t just a cup of caffeine.
Don’t forget: the main purpose of drinking any sort of beverage with a group of friends is to socialize. You don’t need to be an expert on coffee, or even have a serious love for coffee, to go out and use the excuse of an afternoon cup to make a great friend or get to know a new place better. Just do it.
When Damian Papworth has a major celebration he pulls out the 12 cup coffee maker. For typical mornings though one cup coffee makers are fine
