Coffee is more than just a beverage for many. It’s a ritual, a moment of respite, and in some places, a deeply rooted cultural tradition. Finland stands uniquely in the global coffee scene, not only for its high consumption but also its distinct coffee culture.
A Brief History of Finnish Coffee
Coffee made its way to Finland in the 18th century. Initially a luxury commodity, it was confined to the elite. However, as coffee houses proliferated and coffee taxes decreased in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it became a drink of the masses. World War II saw a dearth of coffee, prompting Finns to experiment with alternative brews. Post-war, coffee’s popularity soared.
Kahvi: More Than Just a Drink
The Finns refer to coffee as “Kahvi”, similar to how Sweden refers to coffee as “Kaffe”. The global statistics often spotlight Finland due to its impressive per capita coffee consumption. A Finn, on average, consumes approximately 12 kilograms (about 26 pounds) of coffee each year. According to the World Population Review, coffee is so popular in Finland that two 10 minute coffee breaks are legally mandated for workers.
Light Roast Preference
Diverging from the dark roasts of southern Europe and the medium roasts of the U.S., Finns harbor a special love for light roasts. The resultant brew is a milder, slightly acidic one that might taste a tad watery to those used to robust coffees. This cinnamon-colored Finnish roast emphasizes the bean’s subtle flavors and aromas.
How the Finns Brew
A drip coffee maker is the Finns’ go-to for brewing, mirroring their preference for light roasts with its gentle flavor profile. Coffee consumption is an all-day affair in Finland, starting at breakfast and often stretching into the evening.
Coffee Breaks: The Kahvitauko Tradition
“Kahvitauko”, or the coffee break, stands as a revered tradition in Finland. More than just a break, it’s a moment of relaxation, often accompanied by a sweet treat like the traditional “korvapuusti” or Finnish cinnamon bun.
Coffee Houses: Hubs of Social Connection
Finnish coffee houses, with a rich history spanning centuries, serve as more than just cafes. They are societal hubs, welcoming people across ages. Many have integrated libraries, strengthening the notion of cafes as spots for both relaxation and intellectual nourishment.
This video is from an Irishman who moved to Finland. He explains the unique characteristics of coffee in Finland as a newcomer to the country.
Too Long Didn’t Read
In Finland, coffee is interwoven with daily life and culture. From the unique light roasts and the cherished kahvitauko to the vibrant coffee house scene, Finland’s relationship with coffee is a testament to how a drink can shape and be shaped by the ethos of a nation.
The Finns have some of the highest coffee consumption in the world. They prefer the taste of light roast coffee (also has higher caffeine content). Coffee is a strong part of the social fabric so it is constantly being consumed in social settings. Similar to Swedish Coffee (see our article on that), they have a name for the coffee break, the “kahvitauko“. Where they enjoy a social coffee with a sweet baked good. Sounds like our kind of people!
