Coffee

The Origin of Coffee

Coffee is a familiar beverage for many people, but few truly understand its origins. Behind the rich aroma of every cup of coffee lies a long story waiting to be discovered.

Who Discovered Coffee?

One of the most famous legends about the origin of coffee tells the story of a goat herder named Kaldi. The story begins when he accidentally noticed that his goats became unusually energetic after eating bright red berries from a certain tree. Curious, Kaldi tasted the berries himself and immediately felt a surge of energy. From this accidental discovery, coffee beans gradually became a beloved beverage worldwide.

Kaffa, Ethiopia, is considered the birthplace of coffee from as early as the 9th century, based not only on oral traditions but also on archaeological evidence. By the 14th century, coffee had been introduced to Arabia by slave traders. The Arabs recognized its value and quickly adopted it as a popular drink. Initially, they simply boiled the coffee beans in hot water. Over time, Arabia became the center of coffee production and trade.

The Arabs tried to keep coffee a secret, but the plant’s seeds inevitably spread to other regions. At first, only pilgrims had the opportunity to taste coffee and bring seeds back to cultivate. From the Middle East, coffee gradually spread to Armenia, Persia, Turkey, and North Africa. By the 15th century, coffee had become a common drink in the Islamic world and soon embarked on its journey to conquer Europe, Indonesia, and eventually the Americas.

The Name “Coffee” and Its Origins

There are various opinions about the origin of the word “coffee.” Some researchers believe it originates from the Arabic word “Qahwa,” meaning “a drink from berries.” From there, the Turkish called it “Kahve,” which later spread widely. However, another theory suggests that the name “coffee” comes from the Ethiopian town of Kaffa—although some argue that the town was actually named after the coffee plant. Eventually, the word evolved into “café” in French, which is the root of the modern term “coffee” used today.

Coffee’s Global Expansion

Originally discovered and used by African communities, coffee gradually spread to the Middle East and then to Europe. European curiosity and appreciation for coffee played a significant role in integrating it into their culture. From Europe, coffee made its way to the Americas, Asia, and eventually the entire world.

Coffee’s Growth in North Africa

From the Middle East, coffee beans traveled across the sea to North Africa, bringing with them a new and exciting flavor. In bustling cities like Cairo, Casablanca, and Fez, coffeehouses quickly became cultural hubs. Locals and travelers alike gathered in these spaces to enjoy aromatic coffee brewed in the traditional style. The harmonious blend of coffee flavors with unique North African spices created an unforgettable culinary experience.

Coffee’s Introduction to Europe

In the early 17th century, coffee officially arrived in Europe through the city of Venice. The drink’s unique taste and intriguing qualities quickly captivated European aristocrats and intellectuals. Within a short time, coffee became a phenomenon—symbolizing sophistication and elegance.

The Rise of European Coffeehouses

From Italy’s first coffeehouses, coffee culture rapidly spread across Europe. Cities like London, Paris, and Vienna became vibrant with the emergence of these stylish establishments. Coffeehouses were not just places to drink coffee—they became the heart of social life, where people met, exchanged ideas, and shaped new trends.

The Expansion of Coffee Cultivation

As European colonial empires expanded, coffee cultivation spread across new territories. Plantations flourished in regions such as Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Americas. Thanks to the tropical climate and fertile soil, coffee plants adapted and thrived. Over time, coffee became one of the most valuable export commodities, enriching European powers and shaping global trade.

Coffee Becomes a Global Beverage

Once a specialty drink from a distant land, coffee has now become one of the most popular beverages worldwide. Its journey did not stop in Europe but extended across all continents.

In Vietnam, coffee culture thrives in both elegant cafes and small street-side stalls. Traditional Vietnamese coffee, brewed through a drip filter (phin) with its bold and aromatic flavor, has become a cultural symbol. Additionally, modern variations like iced milk coffee (cà phê sữa đá), egg coffee (cà phê trứng), and coconut coffee (cà phê cốt dừa) have gained popularity, reflecting the creativity and richness of Vietnamese coffee traditions.

More than just a beverage, coffee serves as a bridge connecting people—a place to share stories, foster relationships, and build community. In Vietnam, coffee is not merely a drink; it is a way of life, an expression of emotion, and a cultural tradition.

Now, we understand the origins of coffee—one of the most beloved drinks in the world. From a tiny seed in Ethiopia’s highlands, coffee has grown into a global phenomenon.

In Vietnam, coffee is primarily cultivated in the Central Highlands. Recently, coffee production has also expanded to the Northwest region, including Sơn La and Điện Biên.