Brazilian Coffee Culture: A Guide for Visitors and Expats

If there’s one thing Brazil takes seriously, it’s coffee. Known as the largest coffee producer in the world, Brazil doesn’t just grow beans – it lives and breathes coffee culture.

As a visitor or expat, you’ll quickly realise that coffee isn’t just a drink here; it’s a way of life. Whether you’re sipping a small but mighty cafezinho at a street corner or indulging in a pour-over at a chic café, Brazil offers a rich and vibrant coffee experience unlike anywhere else.

Here’s everything you need to know about Brazilian coffee culture – and why you’ll probably never look at your morning cup the same way again.

1. The Cafezinho – Small, Strong, and Everywhere

Forget the grande lattes and oversized mugs of the UK or US. In Brazil, coffee is all about the cafezinho. This tiny but powerful espresso-like shot is served hot, strong, and sweetened unless you specifically ask for it plain.

The cafezinho is more than just a beverage; it’s a social ritual. Whether you’re visiting someone’s home, closing a business deal, or waiting for a haircut, you’ll likely be offered a cup. Declining one? Practically unheard of!

What You’ll Love: The cafezinho is typically free in restaurants after meals or at gas stations, making it the perfect pick-me-up wherever you go.

2. A Brief History of Brazil’s Coffee Dominance

Brazil’s love affair with coffee dates back to the 18th century, and today it produces about 40% of the world’s coffee supply. The climate, fertile soil, and sprawling plantations make Brazil the perfect place to grow high-quality beans.

Regions like Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Bahia are famous for their coffee farms, which produce some of the best Arabica beans in the world. As an expat or visitor, touring a coffee plantation (fazenda de café) is a must-do experience to see how Brazil’s most beloved drink goes from bean to cup.

3. Where to Get the Best Coffee in Brazil

From traditional coffee houses to modern third-wave cafés, Brazil offers something for every kind of coffee lover. Here’s a guide to where you can sip the best brews:

São Paulo – The Coffee Capital

São Paulo is Brazil’s ultimate coffee hub, with countless speciality cafés serving locally sourced beans.

• Coffee Lab: A trendy spot where you can taste coffee brewed using unique methods.
• Octavio Café: Perfect for trying premium single-origin Brazilian coffee.

Belo Horizonte – Minas Gerais’ Coffee Gem

As the gateway to Brazil’s coffee heartland, Belo Horizonte is home to incredible cafés that showcase Minas Gerais beans.

• Academia do Café: A pioneer in speciality coffee, offering everything from espressos to pour-overs.
• Belo Café: You will find in the neighbourhood of Savassi, great coffee and awesome granola if you are looking for a breakfast hangout

Salvador – Coffee with a View

Pair your coffee with coastal vibes in Salvador.

• Café Terracota: A hidden gem where you can enjoy your brew with a view of the historic Pelourinho.

4. Coffee Types You Must Try in Brazil

Brazil’s coffee culture is diverse, and there are several must-try options beyond the cafezinho:

• Café com Leite: Brazil’s take on a latte, made with equal parts coffee and hot milk.
• Cappuccino Brasileiro: Unlike the traditional Italian cappuccino, the Brazilian version often includes chocolate powder or cinnamon, making it rich and indulgent.
• Cold Brew (Café Gelado): Gaining popularity in hotter regions, this refreshing option is perfect for sipping on sunny afternoons.
• Pingado: A simple yet delicious drink of steamed milk “stained” with a small amount of coffee.

5. Coffee Etiquette in Brazil

While coffee is universal, Brazil has its own set of customs you should know:

• Always Accept a Cafezinho: If someone offers you a cafezinho, it’s polite to accept, even if it’s just a small sip.
• Expect Sweetness: Sugar is almost always added by default. If you prefer it black, politely say, “Sem açúcar, por favor” (No sugar, please).
• It’s a Social Event: Coffee is often an excuse to take a break and chat. Embrace the slower pace and enjoy the moment.

6. Tour a Coffee Plantation: A Unique Experience

If you truly want to understand Brazilian coffee culture, visiting a coffee plantation (fazenda) is a must. You’ll get to see how beans are grown, harvested, and roasted – often with tastings included.

Some of the best plantations to visit include:

• Fazenda Sertãozinho (Minas Gerais): Known for its scenic tours and hands-on coffee experiences.
• Fazenda Ambiental Fortaleza (São Paulo): A sustainable coffee farm offering tours and tastings of their organic brews.

7. The Rise of Speciality Coffee in Brazil

While Brazil has long been known for its volume of coffee production, the speciality coffee scene is now booming. Third-wave cafés and roasters are highlighting Brazil’s uniqueness, with beans that offer distinct flavour profiles, from nutty and chocolatey to fruity and floral.

Local farmers are focusing on small-batch, high-quality beans that showcase the best of Brazilian coffee. As an expat or visitor, this means you’ll have access to some of the most unique and delicious cups of coffee in the world.

8. Bring a Taste of Brazil Home

Want to keep the coffee buzz alive after you leave Brazil? Bring home some freshly roasted beans from local brands like:

• Café do Moço: A boutique roaster known for its single-origin beans.
• Lucca Cafés Especiais: A pioneer in Brazil’s speciality coffee scene.
• Orfeu: Certified organic coffee from Minas Gerais, with rich, complex flavours.

Final Thoughts: Why Brazilian Coffee Culture Is So Special

Coffee in Brazil isn’t just a drink – it’s a way to connect, relax, and celebrate life’s simple pleasures. From the humble cafezinho to luxurious plantation tours, Brazil offers a coffee experience that’s as rich and diverse as its culture.

So, whether you’re sipping a cappuccino at a São Paulo café or enjoying a freshly brewed cup at a plantation in Minas Gerais, one thing’s for sure – you’ll never look at your morning coffee the same way again.

Cheers to your next cafezinho! Saúde! ☕