Indian taste shifting from instant coffee to single-origin brews, cold brews & pour-overs’

Once dominated by tea, India is now brewing a vibrant coffee culture that spans everything from artisanal cafes to homegrown specialty roasters.

- RITWIK MUKHERJEE

The Indian tastebud has matured, shifting from sugary instant coffee to single-origin beans, cold brews, and pour-overs. What is gaining strength together with this, is a Café cultureacross the country. And premium brands like Starbucks, a 50:50 joint-venture between Starbucks Coffee Company and Tata Consumer Products Limited, are making it happen. Speaking to The Statesman, Vibhor Mishra, Coffee Ambassador - Starbucks China and Asia Pacific and Regional Director - Operations, Starbucks India, decodes India’s evolving coffee and café culture and outlines Starbucks strategies and growth plans.

Excerpts:

Q: How have you seen India’s coffee culture grow over the years?

A: In India tea has long and historically been the dominant beverage, except for a few pockets. However, India’s coffee culture has undergone sea change over the years. Once dominated by tea, India is now brewing a vibrant coffee culture that spans everything from artisanal cafes to homegrown specialty roasters. As young urbanites seek a sophisticated coffee experience, the beverage has become more than just a morning ritual. I would say it has now emerged as a statement of taste, identity, and lifestyle. I would like to add here that in recent years, the Indian palate has matured, shifting from sugary instant coffee to single-origin beans, cold brews, and pour-overs.

Q: And how has the café culture evolved in the country?

A: Well, with India’s coffee culture undergoing remarkable changes, the Café culture in the country has also transformed and evolved a lot.