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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Salvador – Coffee with a View
Pair your coffee with coastal vibes in Salvador.
Brazil’s coffee culture is diverse, and there are several must-try options beyond the cafezinho:
While coffee is universal, Brazil has its own set of customs you should know:
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:
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.
Want to keep the coffee buzz alive after you leave Brazil? Bring home some freshly roasted beans from local brands like:
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! ☕