Member-only story
What is a Greek Coffee?
I’ll tell you about it and how to make it
If you know anything about me by now, you should know that my favorite beverage is coffee. If I could spend all day in one place — I would pick a coffee shop; surrounded by good company, enjoying a cup of coffee made Greek style.
Greek coffee is a strongly brewed coffee traditionally served in small cups, black, sometimes alongside a small glass of water. Greek coffee, or Ellinikos kafes, is served all throughout the country and can be found in just about any restaurant, or coffee shop. In most towns, you’ll often find men and women gathering at the local kafeneio, (cafe) for a cup of coffee. In Greece, coffee is a special part of the culture, designed to be enjoyed slowly in social gatherings — especially when having company over.
Some of my most favorite memories that I can remember involve two things — coffee and family. At the end of a big holiday family gathering when it was time for dessert, I’d ask around to see who wanted a coffee and would stand there with my mom as she’d make it, trying to remember who wanted theirs sketos (plain), or metrios (medium sweet). When the coffee was ready, I’d distribute to my dad, uncles and aunts. Hours would pass and we’d sit with coffee in our hands, chatting and enjoying each other’s company.
