How did Arabic coffee culture influence Paris?

Do you know that in Paris, we can call Coffee : Qahwa? When you work in an office, it is not weird to hear local Parisians ask you to meet for a Qahwa. Where does this come from ?

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world, and it has a long history linked to Arab culture. Its origins date back to the 15th century in Yemen, where it was used by Sufis to help maintain vigilance during their religious rituals.

From Yemen, coffee spread to Mecca and Medina, then to Egypt and Syria, where coffeehouses were established, becoming centers for social interaction and intellectual debate. In Cairo, for example, coffeehouses became known as "schools of the wise" because of their role in bringing together thinkers and intellectuals.

In the 16th century, coffee reached Turkey, where modifications were made to its preparation method, leading to the emergence of "Turkish coffee." From there, coffee spread to Europe, and in 1647, the first coffee house opened in Venice.

The importance of coffee in Arabic culture extends to the language itself. The word "qahwa" in Arabic was also used to refer to wine, and it is believed that this name comes from the effect of coffee in suppressing appetite.

In this way, Arabs played a pivotal role in developing and spreading coffee culture, making it a global beverage that connects peoples and cultures.

Cafe culture is an integral part of Paris' identity, as important as its wide streets, iconic architecture, and high-end fashion. In every corner of the city, you will find cafes with tables and chairs extending to the sidewalks, served by skilled waiters who welcome visitors throughout the day and most of the night. To understand true Parisian culture, you must explore its cafes.

The beginnings of coffee houses in Paris date back to the sixteenth century, when the Café Procope first opened. Over time, coffee houses became centers for writers, intellectuals, and politicians, where they would engage in conversation and exchange philosophical ideas. Among the patrons of these cafés were the American writer Ernest Hemingway, the philosopher and political activist Jean-Paul Sartre, and even Pablo Picasso, who were inspired by the people they met and the conversations that took place.

Despite the great changes that Paris has witnessed since the sixteenth century, the culture of the cafes remains constant. Most cafes open early in the morning, serving breakfast (petit déjeuner) in the morning, drinks in the afternoon, and dinner in the evening (many stay open until after midnight). To get the full experience, it is recommended to sit on the terrace, enjoy a cup of café au lait and a slice of tartine, and spend some time watching the pedestrians.

One of the most iconic cafes in Paris:

Café Procope

It is considered the oldest café in Paris, founded in 1686. It was a center for writers and thinkers, and among its patrons were Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Voltaire.

Les Deux Magots

Another historic café, famous for hosting writers and artists, such as Ernest Hemingway and Sartre.

Inside Les Deux Magots - داخل "لي دو ماغو"

Café de Flore

Another Parisian landmark, known for its Art Deco interior design, it was a destination for writers and art lovers.

مقهى فلورا

Your tour guide

Next time you're in Paris, we can walk together to Le Marais and Le Sentier, where we explore the lives of local Parisians and see the many cafés, cuisines, and traditional, vintage shops. I'll show you authentic little bakeries and places owned by Parisian families. We can talk about café culture, and at the end, a surprise awaits you: a real chocolate laboratory, where you can watch the owner making chocolate!

Souhail - سُهَيِّلْ