Indulge in the authentic single-origin Ethiopian coffee
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Explore our collection of rare wild coffee blends from around the highlands of Ethiopia and awaken your senses.
About Bonga Coffee Company
Our Story
At Bonga Coffee Company, we believe coffee is more than just beverages. It is a way to start the day, a pick-me-up during the afternoon, and a moment of relaxation in the evening. That's why we strive to provide the best quality coffee, sourced from sustainable and ethical Ethiopian farms.
Our Locations
We currently have a location in north London, a unique atmosphere and offerings. Whether you're looking for a cosy spot to read a book or a lively place to catch up with friends, we've got you covered.
Why should you try Ethiopian Coffee?
Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee is globally celebrated for the exceptional quality and distinct flavors of its beans. The country's unique coffee-growing conditions are pivotal to its astronomical reputation. Thriving in a region with ample moisture, shade, and nutrient-rich soil, Ethiopian coffee benefits from an ideal environment that produces beans highly prized by connoisseurs worldwide.
With a legacy spanning over 1,200 years, Ethiopian coffee boasts a deep-rooted history and tradition. The earliest records of coffee consumption trace back to the Bonga region of Kaffa. According to legend, a goat herder discovered coffee's energizing effects, marking the origin story of this beloved beverage.
The flavors of Ethiopian coffee are as diverse as the regions in which they are grown. Whether wet or dry processed, Ethiopian coffee features a unique profile characterized by mellow yet bright flavors. Wet processing produces a cleaner, more acidic cup with floral and citrus notes, while dry processing, or natural processing, often results in a fuller-bodied coffee with fruity and wine-like flavors.
In summary, Ethiopian coffee is not just a beverage; it reflects a rich cultural heritage and a testament to the unique environmental conditions that produce some of the finest coffee beans in the world.
Whether you are a seasoned coffee enthusiast or a casual drinker, the unparalleled flavours of Ethiopian coffee are sure to provide a memorable and enjoyable experience.
What is the Ethiopia coffee ceremony?
The Ethiopian coffee tradition is a crucial part of Ethiopian culture, deeply embedded in daily life. The renowned Ethiopian coffee ceremony is a social and cultural ritual that involves an elaborate process of preparing, roasting, grinding, brewing, and consuming coffee. It serves as a time for family and friends to gather, converse, and strengthen their bonds while enjoying freshly roasted and brewed coffee together.
Preparation
Setting the Scene: The ceremony typically takes place on a dedicated coffee table adorned with grass and flowers to create an inviting ambiance. Incense is often burned to add a fragrant atmosphere.
Roasting the Beans
Raw, green coffee beans are carefully cleaned and then roasted in a flat pan over an open flame. This process is done slowly to ensure even roasting and to allow the rich aroma of the beans to fill the room. The host may invite guests to smell the roasting beans as a gesture of hospitality.
Grinding the Beans
Once roasted to perfection, the beans are ground using a traditional mortar and pestle. This manual grinding process adds to the ceremonial aspect and requires a certain level of skill and rhythm.
Brewing
The ground coffee is added to a special Ethiopian coffee pot called a "JEBENA," which is typically made of clay and has a unique shape with a long neck and spout. The coffee is brewed by boiling the water with the coffee grounds over an open flame. This step is often repeated several times to ensure the coffee is strong and flavorful.
Serving
The brewed coffee is carefully poured from the jebena into small, handleless cups called "CINI." The pouring is done from a height to ensure that the coffee is aerated and to show the skill of the host. The coffee is usually served in three rounds, known as "ABOL," "TONA," and "BARAKA," with each round having its own significance and slightly different flavour due to the continuous brewing process.
Consumption
The coffee is often accompanied by traditional snacks such as popcorn, roasted barley, or bread. Sugar or salt may be added to the coffee, depending on regional preferences.
Social Interaction:
The ceremony is a time for conversation and socializing. It is considered impolite to rush the process, as the ceremony is as much about the communal experience as it is about the coffee itself. Discussions during the ceremony can range from everyday life to important community matters.
Significance
The Ethiopian coffee ceremony is a cultural cornerstone that embodies hospitality, respect, and togetherness. It symbolizes friendship and respect, often welcoming guests, celebrating special occasions, and building community. This tradition goes beyond drinking coffee; it celebrates community, culture, and the artistry of making and enjoying coffee.
Questions or Concerns?
Come Grab a Cup!
Have a comment or a question? Ready to place your order for delivery or pickup? Use the form above or give us a call and we can get your order ready for you. Send us a message, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Hours
Open today | 07:00 – 18:00 |
