India’s relationship with coffee has undergone a remarkable transformation. Once dominated by tea, the country is now brewing a vibrant coffee culture that spans everything from artisanal cafes to home-grown specialty roasters. As young urbanites seek a sophisticated coffee experience, the beverage has become more than just a morning ritual—it’s a statement of taste, identity, and lifestyle.
While tea has long been the dominant beverage, coffee began to gain traction in India with the opening of popular café chains like Café Coffee Day in the 1990s. These spaces became synonymous with youth culture, serving as social hubs for friends and professionals. However, in recent years, the Indian palate has matured, shifting from sugary instant coffee to single-origin beans, cold brews, and pour-overs. Major cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi have witnessed an explosion of independent coffee houses that cater to this growing demand. Baristas are no longer mere coffee servers—they are skilled craftsmen, curating an experience that blends premium beans, unique brewing techniques, and a focus on sustainability.
Specialty Coffee Roasters: A Growing Trend
A key driver behind the coffee renaissance is the rise of local roasters, focusing on quality over quantity. Brands such as Blue Tokai, Araku Coffee, and Third Wave Coffee Roasters are bringing farm-to-cup experiences to the fore, with an emphasis on transparency and ethical sourcing. Indian coffee estates, once largely exporters to the global market, are now a source of pride for local consumers who seek ethically produced, premium-grade coffee.
These roasters often work closely with farmers in regions like Coorg, Chikmagalur, and Araku Valley, ensuring that the beans reflect the rich biodiversity and unique terroirs of Indian soil. In this evolving landscape, consumers are learning to appreciate the nuances of different roast profiles and flavour notes. “We’ve seen Indian coffee estates, especially in Coorg and Chikmagalur, come into their own,” notes Sitaram. “These regions produce beans with unique characteristics, and the Indian consumer is starting to appreciate the different roast profiles and flavour notes.”
He adds, “The evolution of coffee culture in India is exhilarating. We’re not just talking about the beans anymore; it’s about the entire experience, from sustainability to the deep connection between the consumer and their cup. Coffee in India, especially in the southern states, has quietly flourished – Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu all have perfect conditions for coffee cultivation." Moreover, the Indian coffee scene is heavily characterized by its unique specialty coffee: the unique flavours of different single-origin coffees and blends, and the exquisite craftsmanship involved in every step he adds.
As Indian consumers become more health-conscious and environmentally aware, sustainability has become a core focus of the coffee conversation. Many local coffee brands are adopting eco-friendly practices, from packaging to farming methods, to cater to an audience that values responsible consumption. Whether it’s choosing organic beans, supporting direct trade, or reducing single-use plastics, the modern Indian coffee drinker is more informed and thoughtful about the environmental impact of their choices. "Nowadays, coffee is typically grown using the most sustainable practices to ensure environmental responsibility," explains Sohrab Sitaram, Co-Founder of First Coffee. He emphasises how small-batch harvesting, or micro-lots, tends to yield high-quality coffee, as these beans develop unique tastes due to the fertile soil, abundant minerals, and favourable weather conditions. "This fourth wave of coffee is not just about enjoying a good brew; it covers the entire ecosystem involved in coffee production," Sitaram continues. "It’s about investing in sustainable farming practices and ensuring fair wages for every worker involved. There’s a genuine respect and care for the communities that support the coffee industry."
Sitaram also highlights India's vast geographical diversity, which contributes to the distinct flavours of its coffee. "Our nation's unique geography, from the misty heights of the Western Ghats to the lush expanses of the Eastern Ghats, nurtures a variety of beans, each with its own distinct taste. Each region’s coffee tells a story of its terrain and climate, offering a spectrum of flavours that range from bold and spicy to sweet and subtle."
Different Types of Coffee Brews
The COVID-19 pandemic may have limited visits to cafés, but it simultaneously fuelled a surge in home brewing. Across India, more people are investing in brewing equipment, such as French presses and AeroPresses, with e-commerce platforms and specialty stores making high-quality beans and accessories readily available. Commenting on this trend, Sitaram sheds some light on the diversity of brewing techniques: "Coffee brewing techniques vary widely, and each method can bring out unique flavours in the beans. Among the most popular are drip coffee machines, the French press—which has gained immense popularity lately—espresso, cold brews, Turkish coffee, and even the percolator for those who prefer their coffee strong and bitter." He continues, "India also has its traditional brewing methods, such as the iconic filter coffee that’s immensely popular in Southern India, and the hand-beaten coffee, or Indian cappuccino, both of which are household favourites. Understanding these different brewing techniques allows customers to appreciate the subtle nuances and aromas that each method can bring out."
The Rise of Specialty Coffee
According to Sitaram, the specialty coffee scene in India has sparked a wave of innovation among young entrepreneurs and coffee enthusiasts. "The rise of specialty coffee has inspired people to explore new, sustainable approaches to coffee-making, focusing on the bean-to-cup model and artisanal brewing techniques," he explains. This shift has not only enriched India’s coffee culture but also brought international recognition to the country’s coffee. Sitaram also touches on the popularity of house blends. "House blends offer a consistent taste by capturing the distinct flavours of a particular type of bean. Each blend is unique to the coffee house or café that creates it and is versatile enough for various brewing methods—whether it’s an espresso, French press, or drip coffee. This makes house blends appealing to a wider audience and suitable for any time of day."
He believes that coffee is more than just a beverage—it's a communal experience. "Sharing knowledge about coffee can help build a community of informed enthusiasts," he says. "This knowledge transforms coffee from a simple daily habit into a more thoughtful, enjoyable ritual. Consumers now want to know the story behind their brew—where it comes from, how it was grown, and who played a part in its journey from seed to cup."
Sitaram finds it fascinating how coffee culture is flourishing across India, with numerous cafés dedicated to elevating the coffee experience. "Perfecting your coffee-making skills can completely transform your appreciation for this beloved beverage—whether you’re brewing a morning cup at home or crafting a specialty brew in a café. The journey towards coffee mastery is as rewarding as it is delicious." He concludes by highlighting First Coffee’s mission. "At First Coffee, we take great pride in preserving the true essence of specialty coffee. We ensure that the finest single-origin beans are available to all at non-premium prices, making high-quality coffee an everyday luxury rather than an exclusive indulgence."
India’s coffee culture shows no signs of slowing down. As the demand for premium coffee continues to rise, we can expect more innovation in brewing techniques, bean varieties, and café experiences. The Indian coffee landscape is evolving rapidly, blending tradition with modernity in a cup that is as diverse as the country itself.
From artisanal blends to sustainable practices, India’s evolving coffee culture is setting the stage for a new era of appreciation, one where every sip tells a story of craftsmanship, heritage, and flavour.
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