Armenian Etiquette and Coffee Culture

The hostess brews coffee in a special vessel called a srjep or jazzve, using one spoonful of ground coffee per cup of water. Coffee is brewed over low to medium heat to create a rich flavor and a special crema, then divided among the cups. Sometimes cardamom is added to coffee, imparting a distinctive aromatic note. 

Armenian Coffee…

Etiquette and Traditions

Coffee culture plays a significant role in Armenians' daily routine. At the start of your day, your break from work, meeting guests, and enjoying a family dinner, these are all traditionally accompanied by coffee. An Armenian may drink 3, 5, or 7 cups of coffee per day.

If unexpected guests arrive, they are always invited into the house and offered coffee. This is an essential gesture of hospitality. Refusing coffee is considered impolite. Coffee in Armenia is called “surch.” Guests may be asked whether they want unsweetened, sweet, or very sweet coffee. Sugar is traditionally added during brewing.

The hostess brews coffee in a special vessel called a srjep or jazzve, using one spoonful of ground coffee per cup of water. Coffee is brewed over low to medium heat to create a rich flavor and a special crema, then divided among the cups. Sometimes cardamom is added to coffee, imparting a distinctive aromatic note.

Coffee is served first to the guest, as he is considered “sent by God.” If coffee is served within a family circle, a gesture of respect is directed toward the eldest member of the family—he is served first.

Coffee is served in small cups to each guest. Unlike the Italian tradition of drinking coffee in two sips at the bar, in Armenia coffee is sipped slowly, savoring each sip. It's a special ritual, with no room for rush or fuss. Conversation over a cup of aromatic coffee is part of the culture. Coffee is never served on an empty table. Traditional treats are always served: gata, dried fruits and nuts, or other homemade pastries.

Next comes a cultural peculiarity. After the coffee is finished and only a small amount of water remains, a saucer is placed on the cup and turned upside down. This leaves patterns on the bottom and sides of the cup, which are traditionally read as a fortune. This sweet tradition remains popular today.

When visiting an Armenian home, don't refuse a cup of coffee, which the hostess will prepare for you with love and care. Experience Armenian hospitality. Refusing and rushing in is disrespectful.

Business negotiations, friendly and family gatherings are held over coffee. This is a wonderful tradition that is preserved in Armenian society and brings people together.

 

Contributor Alisa Kazka is an etiquette authority in Ukraine. Alisa is the founder of the “Way of Living: Etiquette School.” She is an etiquette enthusiast and her expertise as a table stylist may be known to followers of our table setting competition. Engaged in the business of etiquette for more than 5 years now, she teaches adults and children good manners, how to become confident and to be internally free in various life situations, stressing the importance of mutual respect and getting to know other cultures. One of her favorite subjects is the topic of hospitality… high service, dining etiquette and gastronomy. You cab follow Alisa on Instagram: @alisa_kazka or her school, @way.of.living_etiquette

🍽️Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber of The RSVP Institute of Etiquette, is the Site Editor of the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia