Higher Hopes for Standing Room Only Coffee Bars
The Ace Hotel in Manhattan is one of an increasing number of US coffee outlets that have introduced chest-high counters to take the place of their tables and comfy chairs, according to the New York Times.
By encouraging, or by giving their clientele no other option than to stand, bar owners view the counter style set-up as a way of creating a new buzz within their outlets with quick, convivial exchanges and, it is hoped, a higher throughput for their businesses.
Whilst the standing option may suit the busier modern day customer, a combined study by the University of Exeter, UK and Bilkent University, Turkey into the role of coffee houses in the evolution of today’s consumer culture offers some fascinating insight.
Delving deep into the history of coffee establishments in the Ottoman Empire from the 1950s, the researchers found that these early outlets offered far more than hot beverages and were viewed as controversial enterprises.
Patrons of these ancient coffee houses were apparently amused with gambling, drugs, music and dance, amongst other entertainment. As such, the early day coffee outlets clashed strongly with the religious moral principles of the period (orthodox Islam) and were viewed as sinful and illegal.
However, coffee houses went on to flourish and during the following two centuries, Ottomans from all positions in society met to indulge in coffee, socialise and engage in literary discussions. From this point on, a new Ottoman consumer formed and was one that resisted the state and its religion’s prescriptions, instead finding its own direction and enabling the coffee culture as we know it today to fully unfurl.