Hey y’all, welcome back, and happy Saint Patrick’s Day! In honor of such a fun and special day, we are going to look into the coffee culture in Ireland, where this holiday originated.
Ireland has been known for its love of tea, but in recent years, a vibrant coffee culture has taken hold. From specialty cafes to unique coffee roasters, the country has embraced coffee in a way that now rivals some of the world’s coffee capitals.
For generations, tea was the drink of choice in Irish households and a staple of daily life. However, the past two decades have seen a major shift in this. Coffee consumption in Ireland has soared, with people now choosing high-quality brews over instant coffee or traditional teas. This change is driven by younger generations, urbanization, and an increasing appreciation for global coffee trends.
History
Coffee was first introduced to the Irish in the 17th century. Merchants and travelers from the Middle East had brought the beans with them, yet they did not gain popularity and the Irish were very loyal to their tea. In the 19th century, coffee was hard to get across the United Kingdom and tea was the go-to drink. That was until a man named Sam Bewley established “Bewley’s Café” in Dublin. Bewley is credited with making coffee a common drink in Irish culture, as he added it to his shop’s menu. Once the tragedy of World War 2 struck, the Irish government limited tea imports, which helped cause many to switch to coffee.
Modern Coffee Culture
Dublin, Cork, Galway, and other cities are now home to a thriving coffee culture scene. While international chains like Starbucks and Costa Coffee have a presence, it’s the independent cafes that define Ireland’s coffee culture. Spots like 3fe in Dublin, Badger & Dodo in Cork, and The Barn in Belfast have gained reputations for their expertly brewed coffee, ethically sourced beans, and cozy atmospheres. Ireland takes its specialty coffee sector very seriously and values Irish micro-roasters.
Many of these cafes prioritize quality, offering single-origin beans, alternative brewing methods, such as pour-over and Aeropress, and a commitment to sustainability. The rise of Irish coffee roasters has also contributed to a greater appreciation of specialty coffee.
Ireland now has a strong network of specialty coffee roasters that are elevating the standards of coffee across the country. Companies like Cloud Picker Coffee, Bell Lane Coffee, and Roasted Brown are sourcing beans from around the world, roasting them locally, and supplying both coffee shops and home brewers. These roasters emphasize ethical sourcing, often working directly with farmers to ensure fair wages and sustainable practices. This focus on transparency and quality reflects Ireland’s growing appreciation for craft coffee.
Traditional vs. Modern Coffee Culture
There are some major differences between traditional Irish coffee and the modern coffee culture. The traditional Irish consisted of hot coffee, whiskey, sugar, and whipped cream and was commonly served as an after-dinner drink and dessert. Alternatively, modern coffee culture is centered on high-quality coffee roasts and specialty beverages. Modern coffee culture in Ireland also promotes coffee shops as an experience and place to socialize. While both traditional and modern coffee in Ireland are very different both have shaped the overall coffee culture in Ireland.
Beyond the drink itself, coffee culture in Ireland is deeply social. Coffee shops have become community hubs, where friends meet, remote workers settle in with their laptops, and creatives find inspiration, just like here in the United States. The casual cafe culture mirrors the traditional Irish pub setting, where conversation and connection are just as important as what’s in your cup.
As Irish coffee culture continues to grow, trends like plant-based milk, seasonal specialty drinks, and experimental brewing techniques are gaining popularity as well. More people are investing in home brewing equipment, and there’s a rising demand for barista training and coffee education. While Ireland will always have a deep-rooted love for tea, coffee has firmly established itself as a beloved part of daily life. Whether you’re grabbing a flat white from a specialty coffee shop in Dublin or enjoying a slow pour-over in Galway, Ireland’s coffee culture is here to stay!
Are you celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day today or have you ever explored Ireland’s coffee scene? Let me know your favorite spots and go-to orders in the comments. Happy Saint Patty’s Day everyone and maybe even celebrate with the Irish Coffee Milkshake that looks to die for, given to us by Fresh Roasted Coffee LLC!
Ingredients:
- Chocolate Syrup
- 2 Cups of Vanilla Ice Cream
- 2 Shots of Espresso
- ¼ Cup of Whiskey
- ¼ Cup of Milk
- Whipped Cream (to garnish)
Instructions:
- Blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy
- Transfer to a chilled glass swirled with chocolate syrup
- Garnish with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup
- Serve and enjoy!
Sources:
https://irishfoodhub.com/caffeine-and-craic-exploring-irelands-vibrant-coffee-culture/