What is
Café?

Café refers to a coffeehouse or a place where coffee is served, but it can also pertain to the various drinks that are made with coffee as a primary ingredient, such as espresso, cappuccino, and mocha. It signifies a social atmosphere where people gather to enjoy beverages, often accompanied by light snacks or desserts.

Origins & History

The concept of a café originated in the Middle East with the first coffeehouses appearing in the Ottoman Empire, particularly in cities such as Istanbul in the 15th century. The popularity of cafés spread to Europe in the 17th century, particularly in France and Italy, where they became important venues for socializing and intellectual discussions. The word 'café' itself comes from the French word for coffee, emphasizing its central role.

Taste & Texture

The taste of café drinks can vary widely depending on the preparation method. A traditional espresso is strong and bold, while cappuccino combines rich coffee flavors with frothy milk for a creamier texture. The addition of flavors like chocolate or vanilla can produce sweet and indulgent beverages.

Ingredients

Coffee beans

The primary ingredient for any café-style drink, coffee beans are roasted seeds of the Coffea plant, offering various flavor profiles depending on the origin and roast level.

Milk

Often used in drinks like cappuccinos and lattes, milk can be steamed or frothed to create a creamy texture that balances the coffee's bitterness.

Sugar

Commonly added to taste, sugar can enhance the sweetness of coffee drinks and is a key ingredient in many dessert-style coffee beverages.

Flavors and syrups

Optional ingredients that can be added to coffee drinks, such as vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut syrups, which allows for customization and variety.