Everyone knows that coffee is one of the most famous elements of the Neapolitan tradition, but not many know that there is a small story behind it, better known as that of the “suspended coffee”
There are many legends about the coffee in Naples, but it is only at the beginning of the 19th century that one can really attest it, thanks to the first itinerant coffee makers. They went around the city with two large containers (one containing coffee, the other containing milk), shouting at the crowds in the streets so that they could sell their coffè. These figures, by now, have disappeared, but they played a really important role in Neapolitan culture. The custom of “suspended coffee” began during World War II, when, in very difficult times, people used to pay for two cups of coffee: one for themselves, and one for those who could not afford it. When asked, “Would you like a cup of coffee, sir?” people used to answer with joy and happiness, asking them for a cup of coffee in return.
“When someone is happy in Naples, he buys two coffees: one for himself, and another for someone else. It’s like offering coffee to the rest of the world. ”
The tradition of “suspended coffee”, therefore, represents humanity, the incredible feeling of love, compassion, understanding and all the other positive feelings that are part of this city and that we must never forget.