Neapolitan coffee: a journey through history and taste
Italy and coffee – two concepts inseparably linked. Naples in particular has developed its own special relationship with coffee, based on tradition, pride and passion. But how did this coffee culture develop, and what makes it so unique? Let us explore the history of Neapolitan coffee.
The roots of Neapolitan coffee
Coffee's origins in Italy date back to the 17th century, when the coffee trade boomed through the port of Venice. It only reached Naples in the 18th century, where a special way of enjoying it developed. Neapolitan coffee became a symbol of the city and its culture, and soon life without “Espresso Napoletano” was almost unimaginable.
The invention of the “Caffettiera Napoletana”
The famous “Caffettiera Napoletana” was invented in the 19th century: a special coffee maker that differs from today's espresso machines. This simple but ingenious device brought out coffee's full aroma. The “Caffettiera Napoletana” brewed coffee without pressure – slowly and thoughtfully. The coffee-making ritual thus became a significant part of everyday Neapolitan life.
The taste – strong, full-bodied and unique
Neapolitan coffee is known for its intense, strong taste. This comes from the blend of the finest coffee beans and the special roasting, darker than most other Italian coffees. The dark roast brings out distinctive notes of cocoa and caramel and creates the characteristic bittersweet taste that makes Naples' coffee speciality so special.
Coffee as a social focal point
In Naples, drinking coffee is more than a short break – it is a ritual and a form of social connection. “Caffè Sospeso”, the tradition of paying for an extra coffee for someone who cannot currently afford one, shows the generosity and sense of community that come with Neapolitan coffee culture.
Modern coffee culture in Naples
Today, Neapolitan roasters stand for first-class quality around the world. Brands such as Kimbo and Caffè Borbone have made it their mission to bring the unique taste of Neapolitan coffee tradition to the world. Despite modern technology, the original taste, shaped by craftsmanship and passion, remains unchanged.
