Pristina gathers enthusiasts for coffee and tea festival

On Wednesday, the 9th edition of the Coffee and Tea Festival kicked off in Pristina, an event that brings together all those who cannot imagine a day without these drinks. Nearly 30 local and foreign brands participated in this festival that lasted until Friday. The goal was to promote the art, culture and tradition of coffee and tea preparation in Kosovo. We will learn more about the atmosphere and the reaction of visitors from the following material.

With the arrival of the autumn season, coffee and tea become the most sought-after beverages. And like every year, this September, Pristina hosted the Coffee and Tea Festival.

The 9th edition of the Festival brought together around 30 well-known brands, from local to international. The goal was clear: to promote the culture of coffee and tea making in Kosovo, and to offer a unique experience to consumers.

According to the bartenders, citizens look forward to this festival every year.

"Coffee enthusiasts have welcomed the festival very well, as always. The visitors are almost the same, interested in seeing if there is anything new from previous years. There are those who know and distinguish quality coffee, most prefer Danesi. This year we have added some new products. We offer coffee and tea for free and the barista has a key role, from grinding to preparation, especially for espresso, which is among the most sought after," says Fatlum Spahiu.

Espresso is not the only one that is liked, Turkish coffee also remains among the most beloved for Kosovars.

"This is the 9th edition of the Festival and it is undoubtedly worth holding. Citizens know that they will find quality coffee and tea here. There are over 25 brands participating and each has its own taste. We offer espresso, capsules, 3-in-1, and of course Turkish coffee, which is the most sought after, because it is part of our tradition. Leze Qena has promoted it best," emphasizes barista Jetmir Maliqi. 

The festival has also attracted foreign visitors, especially from Italy and Brazil.

"In addition to Kosovars, we have had Italian and Brazilian visitors who have left very satisfied. There are talented baristas in Kosovo. I have participated in many fairs abroad, but when such a festival is organized here, I can't wait," adds Maliqi.

According to baristas, Italians are often surprised by the level of coffee consumption and preparation in Kosovo.

"We have been part of the festival for six years. It is a very good experience because consumers can taste the coffee and compare the quality between brands. We also have Italians who come every year. They are surprised when they see that such a small population consumes so much coffee and especially for espresso, they praise us for the preparation. They ask if we have any training, but we tell them that it is the love for coffee that makes us stand out", emphasizes barista Florim Foniqi.

At most stands, drinks are offered free of charge to all visitors.

"Before the pandemic, macchiatos were more in demand, but now it's only espresso that is in demand the most. Anyone who wants to enjoy coffee is welcome until Friday, everything is free, whether it's tea or coffee," Foniqi emphasizes.

The event was not only accompanied by coffee and tea, visitors also had the opportunity to enjoy music and cultural activities throughout the event.