A Rich History: Cafés and Coffee Culture in Florence

3 min read.

For those who have been to our Atelier, a defining characteristic of the storefront is the bold lettering above the entrance, reading CAFFÈ. The space of Antonina Poppy is located in the former caffé that was connected to the historic restaurant, Trattoria Sostanza. Coffees would be passed through the two windows, which are now utilized by us as beautiful display cases. Continuing the space’s heritage as a place to enjoy an espresso, we’ve established our members’ coffee club, where clients and shoppers can relax in an atmosphere that blends beautiful collections with the historic charm of the Florentine streets. Whether seated at the wooden bar or outside, it’s the perfect spot to recharge.

Italy has always been synonymous with coffee culture: a tradition which is deeply embedded in its daily life and social customs. Here, coffee becomes more than just a drink. It’s a ritual, a pause, and even a form of art. Along with being a cultural and historical hub, Florence is unique in its evolution of Italian coffee culture. 

Coffee first arrived in Venice in the late 16th century, and was brought through trade routes connecting Europe to the Ottoman Empire. Initially seen as an exotic curiosity to consume, coffee gained popularity amongst Italians, and by the 17th century, caffés became a place of gathering for intellectuals, merchants, and nobility. In Florence, the rise of coffee reflected the city’s Renaissance spirit of embracing new ideas. By the 18th century, cafés in Florence were the centers of creativity and discussion, frequented by writers, artists, and thinkers. 

Florentine cafés also became places to showcase craftsmanship, not just in coffee, but also in pastries and design, similar to the concept and identity here at Antonina Poppy. The elegance of Florentine cafés, with their Art Nouveau interiors or Renaissance-inspired decor, emphasized the city’s dedication to beauty and culture. Coffee in Italy is a carefully observed ritual: from a morning cappuccino to the quick midday espresso, each coffee break serves a distinct purpose. Unlike more leisurely café culture in different parts of Europe and the world, Italian coffee culture often is more fast paced, serving the purpose of a quick yet meaningful pause. 

However, the social aspect of coffee remains central in Florence, Italians often enjoy their coffee while engaging in lively conversation, reinforcing the communal nature of the experience. For Florentines, coffee represents more than a beverage: it’s a moment of connection with the city’s rich heritage. 

Immerse in the unique and distinguished Florentine café culture, and sign up for the exclusive Antonina Poppy Coffee Club, available under the “CLUB” tab of our website.

For the cover of “A Rich History: Caffés and Coffee Culture in Florence”, we used the artwork of Bistro, 1998 by Juarez Machado.