Greek Coffee: Origins, Preparation, and Best Brands

Greek coffee is a traditional method of brewing unfiltered, finely ground coffee using a briki, like the ibrik in Turkish coffee. Greek coffee delivers a rich, bittersweet brew with thick foam, velvety body, and mild acidity. To make Greek coffee at home, use finely ground Arabica, cold water, and a briki. Simmer slowly without boiling to create foam, then pour into a small cup. The best coffee for Greek-style brewing is a freshly roasted, ultra-fine medium-to-dark Arabica blend from specialty coffee brands Colipse Coffee. When compared, Greek coffee is boiled, not pressure-brewed like espresso, similar in method to Turkish coffee, but culturally distinct and different from Arabic coffee.

What is Greek Coffee?

Greek coffee, or Ellinikos Kafes, is a traditional method of brewing unfiltered, finely ground coffee using a briki, like the ibrik in Turkish coffee. Greek coffee uses finely ground Arabica beans, roasted to a medium or light level for smooth flavor and low acidity. A briki is a small pot with a long handle and narrow neck, designed to control foam and heat, and is usually made of copper, brass, or stainless steel. The finished drink is a small, thick black coffee with a creamy foam layer on top called kaïmaki (καϊμάκι) and fine grounds settled at the bottom. Greek coffee is served in a small porcelain or ceramic demitasse cup, often accompanied by a glass of cold water and a sweet like loukoumi or baklava.

The word for coffee in Greek is "καφές" (pronounced kafés). People use this word when ordering at cafes or in everyday conversation. The term "Greek coffee" describes the coffee preparation style, not the origin or variety of the coffee bean itself. Terms like "Greek style coffee," "double Greek coffee," and "instant Greek coffee" are not the same. Greek style coffee refers to the traditional method using a briki. Double Greek coffee means a larger portion with twice the grounds. Instant Greek coffee uses powdered coffee for quick preparation, not traditional brewing. Greek coffee can be ordered by saying “Ena kafe, parakalo.” Begin with “Kali mera” to greet politely and enhance your cafe experience.

What is the History of Greek Coffee?

The history of Greek coffee began when Greece was under the Ottoman Empire, arriving through Constantinople and tracing back to Middle Eastern roots, especially Yemen in the 15th century. Early contact through Constantinople spread coffee culture to Greece, Cyprus, and nearby Ottoman regions. By the 17th century, Greek kafeneia emerged under Ottoman influence. Greeks opened the Grecian Coffee House in 1600s London, spreading coffeehouse culture beyond the Ottoman world across Balkan and Eastern Mediterranean cities. Greek coffee became a popular drink in Greece and nearby Mediterranean areas. Greek coffee shares the same preparation and tradition as Turkish coffee but developed a unique identity through Greek history and rituals.

What are the Popular Greek Coffee Traditions?

Popular Greek coffee traditions include brewing ultra-fine grounds in a briki over heat, coffee drinking rituals, sharing it as a gesture of filoxenia, and reading the leftover grounds via tasseography to glimpse the future.

• Traditional Greek Coffee Preparation: Greek coffee is boiled in a briki over gas or hot sand, producing thick unfiltered coffee with foamy kaimaki and settled grounds. It’s served in small cups and sipped slowly to avoid drinking the sediment.
• Social Traditions: Coffee drinking in Greece is a social ritual. The phrase “pame gia kafe” means “let’s go for coffee,” but it’s more than that, as it signals time to catch up and socialize.
• Filoxenia: Filoxenia in Greek coffee culture refers to the tradition of hospitality and warmly welcoming guests by offering them coffee. Serving Greek coffee symbolizes respect, friendship, and generosity, making it an essential part of social rituals and daily interactions.
• Greek Coffee Fortune-Telling: Greek coffee fortune-telling, or Tasseography, interprets coffee grounds left in the cup to predict the future. This cultural ritual links coffee drinking with folk beliefs.

What Does Greek Coffee Taste Like?

Greek coffee has a intense, rich taste from finely ground beans and traditional brewing. It has a bold aroma, thick consistency, and foamy top, offering a taste unlike espresso or milder brews like Cappuccino or Americano. Its bittersweet, nutty flavor comes from chlorogenic and caffeic acids. Greek coffee is mildly acidic but less so than other types due to its slow brewing and fine grind. Adding sugar during brewing creates sweet or mild variations, but the result remains stronger than lighter coffee recipes. Greek coffee can be sweet depending on sugar added: sketo (no sugar), metrio (medium), and glyko or glykos (sweet). This customization is similar to espresso but follows traditional Greek terms and preparation methods. Milk is not a typical ingredient, though some people add cream or milk to soften the taste.

Is Greek Coffee Strong?

Yes, Greek coffee is considered strong, using a 1:10 coffee-to-water ratio that is stronger than drip coffee, though its final strength depends on the roast or preparation. However, Greek coffee is not stronger than espresso in its flavor or caffeine content. Espresso uses a 1:2 ratio, where 18 grams of coffee makes 36 grams of liquid with high-pressure extraction and a fast brew time.

Greek coffee contains 40–60 mg of caffeine per small cup, less per ounce than espresso but more than many drip brews. The caffeine content varies by roast, preparation, and exact serving size. For example, a 2013 "The Ikaria" study published in Vascular Medicine by Gerasimos Siasos noted that a standard 5 g (50 ml) serving of boiled Greek coffee contains "moderate caffeine content," depending on grind and brew conditions.

How to Make Greek Coffee at Home?

To make authentic Greek coffee at home, you need very finely ground Greek coffee, cold water, sugar (optional), and a briki. You can make Greek coffee without a briki by using a narrow-based saucepan. Heat slowly, stir gently, and avoid boiling to preserve foam, texture, and flavor. The following steps show you exactly how to make traditional Greek coffee at home.

1. Measure cold water (2–2.5 oz / 60–75 ml) into the briki.
2. Add 1–2 tsp finely ground Greek coffee per cup.
3. Add sugar to taste.
4. Stir the mixture thoroughly.
5. Place the briki on low–medium heat.
6. Watch for foam (kaïmaki) forming and the surface trembling.
7. Lift the briki off heat when foam rises, let it settle, then reheat once.
8. Remove the briki from heat just before boiling.
9. Pour the coffee slowly into a small cup, preserving the foam.
10. Let the grounds settle for a few minutes.
11. Serve with cold water and sip slowly.

Which Tools are Required to Brew Greek Coffee?

To brew Greek coffee, the essential tools required are listed below.

• Briki: A briki, or Greek coffee pot, is a small metal vessel used in traditional coffee brewing, designed for even heat transfer and foam control through slow simmering over an open flame.
• Coffee Grinder: A coffee grinder is a device that crushes coffee beans into fine particles for brewing. It’s essential for Greek coffee because it requires an ultra-fine grind, finer than espresso, to create its thick texture and rich foam when brewed in a briki.
• Electric or Gas Stove: An electric or gas stove is a kitchen appliance used to heat cookware, essential for brewing Greek coffee in a briki. Consistent, low heat from the stove allows the coffee to foam slowly without boiling, which preserves the texture and traditional flavor of Greek coffee.
• Demitasse Cups: Demitasse cups are small espresso-style cups, typically holding 2–3 ounces (60–90 ml), used to serve strong, concentrated coffee like Greek coffee. They preserve heat, control portion size, and enhance the experience of sipping slowly. Standard dimensions are about 2.5 inches tall and 2–2.5 inches wide.
• Fresh Filtered Water: Fresh filtered water is clean water free from chlorine, minerals, and impurities that can alter taste. It’s essential for Greek coffee because pure water preserves the coffee’s natural flavor and aroma. Avoid distilled, flavored, or hard tap water, as they can produce flat or metallic-tasting coffee.

How to Drink Greek Coffee?

To drink Greek coffee properly, follow these six steps below.

1. Serve Greek coffee in a small cup with a layer of foam (kaïmaki) on top and grounds settled at the bottom, do not drink the grounds.
2. Sip the coffee slowly to savor its full flavor, taking around half an hour; don’t rush or treat it like an espresso shot.
3. Stop drinking when you taste the grounds at the bottom—avoid consuming them.
4. Serve alongside a small glass of cold water to cleanse your palate.
5. Serve the coffee black and strong without milk, specifying sweetness as sketos (no sugar), metrio (medium sugar), or glikos (sweet).
6. Drink it slowly while sitting and enjoying the moment, typically twice a day, in the morning and afternoon, to honor Greek coffee culture.

What are the Best Greek Coffee Brands?

The best Greek coffee brands use premium Arabica beans, master fine grinding for briki brewing, and preserve cultural authenticity to deliver consistent, trusted flavor. The top seven Greek coffee brands are listed below.

1. Colipse Coffee
2. Bravo Greek Coffee
3. Loumidis Papagalos
4. Ouzounoglou
5. Nektar Greek Coffee
6. Nescafé
7. Venizelos Greek Coffee

1. Colipse Coffee

Colipse Coffee is an online specialty coffee brand offering high-quality, single-origin Arabica beans and signature blends. Although not from Greece, Colipse roasts coffee only after you order to keep it fresh and is known for its fine grind and rich flavors that work well for Turkish and Greek-style coffee. Colipse stands out for transparency, labeling each bag with bean origin, processing, and roast, while supporting ethical sourcing through small-scale farmer cooperatives. Colipse coffee flavor varies by roast: light is fruity, medium is nutty, and dark is bold and smoky. It’s sold exclusively online for $19.95–$24.95 per 12 oz bag.

2. Bravo Greek Coffee

Bravo is a Greek coffee brand founded in 1926 in Athens. Bravo ranks among the best Greek coffee brands for its slow-roasted method that enhances aroma and creates rich blends. Bravo coffee uses premium Greek varieties, ground to a powder for a bold, traditional flavor. Bravo coffee has a strong, aromatic taste with rich crema that captures authentic Greek flavor. You can buy Bravo coffee in 193g or 200g bags from retailers and Greek specialty online stores. A 193g bag costs $6 to $7 USD, making Bravo coffee an affordable choice for those seeking Greek flavor.

3. Loumidis Papagalos

Loumidis Papagalos, founded in Piraeus in the 1920s by the Loumidis brothers, is a famous Greek coffee brand. Loumidis Papagalos ranks among the best Greek coffee brands for its heritage, quality beans, and roasting techniques that preserve rich aroma and flavor. The coffee is known for its bold, aromatic flavor, made from a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans. You can buy Loumidis Papagalos coffee in Greece or internationally through online retailers and specialty stores. Price varies by seller and packaging, but the coffee is considered an affordable premium Greek brand. Since 1987, Loumidis Papagalos has been part of Nestlé, using modern technology and sustainable practices while preserving its authentic Greek coffee experience.

4. Ouzounoglou

Ouzounoglou is a Greek coffee brand from Halkidiki, Northern Greece, established in 1928. It ranks among the best Greek coffees for its traditional roasting, quality beans, and generational craftsmanship. Ouzounoglou coffee has won awards like the Superior Taste Award for its flavor and quality. The taste of Ouzounoglou coffee is rich, full-bodied, and authentic, delivering a classic Greek experience. You can purchase Ouzounoglou coffee online from Greek stores and supermarkets with international shipping. Pricing varies, but a 200g pack costs around $10 USD, offering excellent value for Greek coffee.

5. Nektar

Nektar is a Greek coffee brand founded in 1951 in Argos and still run by three generations of the same family. Nektar ranks among the best Greek coffee brands for its long history and use of high-quality Arabica and Robusta beans from America, Asia, and Africa. Nektar coffee is known for a rich taste, balanced aroma, and nutty chocolate notes with a frothy kaimaki texture. The company maintains a strong market position in Greece and abroad by focusing on innovation and respecting tradition. You can order Nektar coffee from specialty stores or online, with instant frappe powder priced around $13.07. Nektar’s focus on quality and award-winning products makes it a top choice for authentic Greek coffee lovers.

6. Nescafé

Nescafé is a Swiss-made instant coffee brand developed in Brazil in the 1930s to use surplus coffee beans. It is popular in Greece and globally for its convenience, rich flavor, and consistent quality, making it a top choice for quick coffee preparation. Nescafé offers a medium-dark roast with a full-bodied taste appreciated by consumers for daily coffee enjoyment. You can buy Nescafé in supermarkets, online stores, and convenience shops worldwide, including Greece. The price of Nescafé varies by product type and quantity but remains affordable and widely available. Its reputation for reliable flavor makes Nescafé a preferred instant coffee.

7. Venizelos

Venizelos coffee was founded in the U.S. by Greek immigrant George K. Callas to help Greek immigrants access authentic Greek-style coffee. Although made in the U.S., Venizelos coffee reflects traditional Greek culture with beans selected, roasted, and stone-ground in classic Demi-Tasse style. Venizelos coffee ranks among the best due to traditional preparation and high-quality stone-ground beans that create rich flavor. The taste of Venizelos coffee is rich and aromatic, reflecting old-world Greek coffee enjoyed in small demitasse cups. Buy Venizelos coffee online or in specialty stores like Walmart and Titan Foods. Prices vary, but a typical 1-pound (454g) tin is competitively priced among specialty coffee brands.

What is the Best Coffee for Greek Coffee?

The best coffee for Greek coffee is traditionally a fine, strong, and rich blend of Arabica beans. Popular brands such as Loumidis and Bravo offer authentic flavor and consistency. Greek coffee typically uses very finely ground coffee powder. It is often roasted to a medium or dark roast and delivers a bold but balanced cup when brewed in a briki. Some blends incorporate beans from Ethiopia or Yemen to enhance aromatic complexity. Fresh roasted coffee is best for Greek coffee because it preserves flavor and nutrients. Choose brands like Colipse that roast to order and grind finely for thick, flavorful consistency.

Where to Buy the Best Coffee for Greek Coffee?

You can buy the best coffee for Greek coffee from Colipse. We roast each bag to order and ships across the U.S. with free delivery. Choose from a variety of roast levels, origins, and flavor profiles, including Colombian, Brazilian, and Sumatra blends. Finely ground coffee is available in 12 oz, 16 oz, 2 lb, and 5 lb bags, ideal for both home brewers and high-volume settings. Each bag is vacuum-sealed for freshness, with options to subscribe and save or buy in bulk.

How Does Greek Coffee Compare to Other Brews?

Greek coffee differs from American, Italian, and Turkish coffee in grind size, brewing method, and cultural tradition. It uses ultra-fine grounds simmered in a briki, producing foam and unfiltered sediment. Compared to American drip coffee, it’s thicker and stronger; unlike Italian espresso, it’s boiled not pressured; and it’s nearly identical to Turkish coffee but branded with Greek heritage.

Is Greek Coffee the Same as Turkish Coffee?

Greek coffee and Turkish coffee are nearly identical in preparation, using finely ground coffee simmered in a small pot to create foam and sediment. The main difference lies in cultural naming and branding, as both share the same method but are associated with different national identities.

What is the Difference between Greek Coffee and Arabic Coffee?

The main difference between Greek coffee and Arabic coffee is in roast level, flavor, and added ingredients. Greek coffee uses finely ground medium roast Arabica beans brewed in a briki without spices, while Arabic coffee often uses lighter roasts with cardamom and is brewed longer, resulting in a spiced, more aromatic profile.

What are the Popular Coffee Drinks in Greece?

Popular coffee drinks in Greece refers to the most commonly consumed and culturally significant coffee beverages in Greece, such as Greek coffee, frappé, and freddo espresso. The seven most popular coffee drinks in Greece are listed below.

• Frappe Greek Coffee: Frappe Greek coffee is a frothy iced drink made from instant coffee, cold water, and sugar. It’s shaken to create a thick foam and served over ice for a refreshing boost. To prepare, shake 1–2 tsp instant coffee, sugar, and a little cold water until foamy, then pour over ice with cold water or milk.
• Instant Greek Coffee: Instant Greek coffee refers to quick-prep coffee using soluble granules and hot water. It delivers a strong, bitter taste similar to traditional Greek coffee without brewing. To make it at home, stir 1–2 tsp instant coffee with hot water and optional sugar until dissolved.
• Greek Iced Coffee: Greek iced coffee is a chilled version of strong brewed coffee served over ice, sometimes with milk or sugar. It includes various styles like frappé and freddo, common in summer. To prepare, brew strong coffee, cool it, and serve over ice with optional milk and sugar.
• Freddo Greek Coffee: Freddo Greek coffee refers to iced espresso blended with ice for a creamy texture. It's bolder and smoother than a frappé, preferred for a modern espresso experience. Brew a double espresso, blend it with ice, and serve chilled in a tall glass.
• Freddo Cappuccino Greek Coffee: Freddo cappuccino is a cold espresso topped with cold milk foam, offering a creamy, layered texture. It’s one of the most popular iced drinks in Greece. Blend espresso with ice, add a layer of cold frothed milk, and serve over ice.
• Greek Shaken Coffee: Greek shaken coffee is another name for frappé, made by shaking instant coffee with water and sugar. It’s known for its foam and quick prep. To make it, shake instant coffee, a splash of water, and sugar in a shaker until foamy, then pour over ice.
• Dalgona Coffee Greek: Dalgona coffee, adapted in Greece, features whipped instant coffee layered over cold milk. It offers a creamy texture and bold flavor. To prepare, whip 2 tbsp instant coffee, sugar, and hot water until thick, then spoon over cold milk.