Where it all started
The idea of serving water with coffee goes way back to seventeenth-century Vienna. Cafés there, famous for taking their coffee seriously, started offering water to make the experience even more refined. After the Ottoman Empire fell, these spots looked for ways to up their game and water proved to be a neat solution that not only improved the flavor but also respected the long-standing ritual of enjoying coffee.
This custom is super popular in Italy too, where an espresso is often served with a glass of water. Italians, who are all about perfecting their coffee, know that a little water helps clean your palate before you dive into that rich espresso taste. From the storied cafés in Vienna to the buzzing espresso bars in Italy, this habit has spread all over Europe, showing how a simple glass of water can turn your daily caffeine fix into a classy little ritual.
Why water and coffee go together
Having water with your coffee does more than just boost the flavor. Taking a sip before your coffee helps sweep away any leftover tastes from food or even cigarettes, letting you enjoy the true flavor of your brew. It also gets your mouth and throat ready for the sometimes strong kick of caffeine.
For those with sensitive stomachs, coffee’s acidity can be a bit of a challenge. Drinking water afterward helps bring back hydration and can ease things like heartburn or acid reflux. Plus, a little water can smooth out that lingering aftertaste, leaving your breath a bit fresher—a nice little bonus.
Some cafés even step it up by offering sparkling water, which can clear your palate even more effectively so you can truly savor every sip.
Coffee customs around the world
Coffee habits can be a mixed bag depending on where you are. For example, Finland tops the list in coffee drinking—each person there drinks about 26 pounds of coffee every year. Finns love their “kahvitauko” (coffee breaks), a cherished time to kick back and chat.
On the flip side, in Poland, coffee is on the rise with people enjoying somewhere between 5.5 and 8.2 gallons per person annually. In Poland, coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s part of everyday social life and gatherings.
These examples show how coffee isn’t just a beverage; it’s a way for people to connect and make everyday moments a bit more special.
A personal take on this old habit
Adding water to your coffee routine is a neat way to slow down and enjoy the moment. Taking that first sip of water before you start on your coffee lets you really take in the aroma, flavor, and warmth of your drink.
This small step can turn a regular routine into a mini break where you can just enjoy life a bit more. Whether you choose still or sparkling water, giving this tradition a try can bring a little extra pleasure to every sip.
Ever noticed this practice at your local coffee shop or in your own morning routine? Do you lean toward still water or bubbly? Drop your thoughts and stories about how this old-school habit makes your coffee moments that much better—one glass at a time.
