Every year, October 1st marks International Coffee Day, a global celebration of one of the world’s most beloved beverages. From the cozy coffee shops of Europe to the bustling cafes of South America, coffee is not just a drink—it’s a cultural experience. To help you fully embrace the spirit of this day, we've put together a curated cultural guide filled with recommendations on the best films, books, and music to enjoy with your coffee.
1. The Best Film to Watch with Your Coffee: Coffee and Cigarettes (2003)
Directed by Jim Jarmusch, Coffee and Cigarettes is a collection of short films centered around—yes, you guessed it—coffee and cigarettes. Each segment features quirky, humorous conversations between characters as they sip coffee and discuss life’s oddities. The film brings together an incredible ensemble cast, including Bill Murray, Cate Blanchett, and Iggy Pop. With its witty dialogues and artsy, black-and-white aesthetic, it’s the perfect watch for coffee lovers who appreciate a bit of offbeat cinema.
Why it's perfect: It combines the ritual of drinking coffee with fascinating dialogues, making it a reflective and relaxing watch.
2. The Best Book to Read with Your Coffee: The Coffee Trader by David Liss
Set in 17th-century Amsterdam, David Liss’s The Coffee Trader is a historical fiction novel that takes you back to the early days of coffee as a commodity. The story follows Miguel Lienzo, a Portuguese Jewish trader, as he navigates financial risk, betrayal, and intrigue in the coffee markets. The novel not only explores the history of coffee but also immerses readers in the cutthroat world of trade, making it a thrilling page-turner.
Why it's perfect: It combines the rich history of coffee with suspense, making your cup of joe feel even more luxurious as you read about its early trade origins.
3. The Best Song to Listen to with Your Coffee: “Black Coffee” by Ella Fitzgerald
When it comes to music that pairs perfectly with coffee, nothing beats the smooth, sultry voice of jazz legend Ella Fitzgerald. Her song “Black Coffee” is a soulful ode to late-night loneliness, with rich vocals that feel as comforting as a warm mug in your hands. The moody, melancholic tone of the song mirrors the bittersweet flavor of black coffee, making it a timeless track for any coffee moment.
Why it's perfect: The deep, mellow rhythms of the song perfectly capture the contemplative mood that often accompanies a solo cup of coffee.
4. The Best Café to Visit for Coffee Lovers: Café de Flore, Paris
If you ever find yourself in Paris, one of the world’s coffee capitals, a visit to the Café de Flore is a must. This iconic café has been a gathering spot for intellectuals, writers, and artists since the 19th century. Famous patrons like Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir once sipped coffee here while discussing existentialism. Today, you can enjoy the same experience in its historic, elegant atmosphere.
Why it's perfect: Its rich literary and philosophical history makes Café de Flore more than just a place for coffee—it’s a cultural institution.
5. The Best Coffee Ritual Around the World: The Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony
In Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee, the drink is more than a beverage—it’s a spiritual and communal experience. The Ethiopian coffee ceremony involves the roasting, grinding, and brewing of coffee beans in front of guests, followed by multiple rounds of serving the drink. It's a slow, deliberate process that emphasizes patience, hospitality, and connection.
Why it's perfect: If you want to appreciate the cultural significance of coffee, the Ethiopian coffee ceremony is a beautiful, meditative experience that highlights the communal aspect of this cherished drink.
6. The Best Coffee Recipe to Try at Home: Dalgona Coffee
A viral sensation during the pandemic, Dalgona coffee became popular due to its visually striking, whipped texture. To make it, all you need is instant coffee, sugar, hot water, and milk. Whip the coffee, sugar, and water together until it becomes fluffy, then pour it over a glass of milk. It’s a fun and easy way to create a café-style drink from the comfort of your own home.
Why it's perfect: It’s a modern twist on coffee that’s not only delicious but Instagram-worthy, too.
7. The Best Coffee Podcast:
For those who love both coffee and learning new languages, the Coffee Break Italian podcast is a delightful way to combine your passions. Sip on your morning brew while learning the basics of conversational Italian. Hosted by experienced teachers, each episode is designed to be digestible and fun, making language learning feel as smooth as your favorite espresso.
Why it's perfect: It allows you to sip on your coffee while expanding your linguistic horizons.
International Coffee Day is not just about enjoying a cup of coffee; it’s about celebrating the cultural richness that surrounds it. Whether you’re watching a film, reading a novel, or simply soaking in the ambience of a café, coffee has a way of enhancing these experiences. This cultural guide gives you the perfect mix of art, literature, and music to celebrate the magic of coffee in style.
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