Coffee Corner: Coffee vs Tea – The Great Debate, by Dana Costantino, illustration by Flora Morrison

For so many of us, coffee and tea are part of our daily lives. Today I want to dive into the topic “Coffee Drinker vs Tea Drinker” what are the differences…the debate begins as it is often thought that the difference between coffee and tea drinkers is not just in taste preference, but also in personality, cultural, and lifestyle habits.

It is largely assumed that coffee drinkers favor bold, robust flavors since coffee has a strong and often bitter taste. Tea drinkers, often find an appeal in a wide variety of flavors from green teas and floral oolongs to chai or herbal blends.

Studies have showcased personality differences between coffee and tea drinkers. Coffee drinkers are often described as more energetic, driven, and outgoing, preferring a faster paced lifestyle. Coffee culture, especially here in the United States, and New York City in particular, aligns with an on the go lifestyle. On the other hand, tea drinkers, as research has suggested, may be more aligned with a quieter, more mellow style of life.

Korean Traditional House Hanok experience_photo image of learning tea ceremony by sitting face to face

Much of one’s preference may not only come from personal tastes but seem to be influenced by the culture they come from. In many Western countries like the United States and Italy, coffee is part of daily social gatherings, morning, noon, and night. However, in countries like China, Japan, and the UK, tea has not only historical importance but also ceremonial significance. Rituals around the preparation of tea have roots dating back thousands of years. In many cases these preparations and ceremonies are taken quite seriously.

There is certainly no “right or wrong” and of course you can love coffee and tea! However, overall it does seem that people have a preference. Whether a tea ceremony on a trip to Japan, an espresso at a New York City coffee house, or a cappuccino at a caffe in Italy, the difference between coffee and tea drinkers comes from more than just taste, it’s a combination of lifestyle, personality, and culture. Whatever you sip, I hope you enjoy.

Send me an email and let me know your favorite coffee or tea blend and where you love to drink it! [email protected]
Be well and sip on!

Author

  • Dana Costantino

    Dana is a native New Yorker currently living in the West Village. She works full time in fashion and has a twenty year background in advertising. She is also part of the team that runs Village Works on St Marks Place. I’ve been freelance writing for years on the side.

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