Enan Eliniko Cafe, Parakalo!

As part of our intro to Greek language course, we were expected to learn how to communicate basic orders at places like a coffee shop. We learned how to order coffees (sweet, no sugar, etc.), and other pastries and snacks too. It was fun practicing my Greek in real life situations such as this, and through my experiences in the local cafes, I noticed some differences (and similarities) between the coffee shops here and the ones in America.


One of the primary differences between the two cultures in regards to their cafes is the reasons that people usually go to them. In Greece, it seems almost necessary to go to a cafe with a few friends- it was uncommon to see someone sitting by themselves without company. It seems cafes are more of an excuse for a place to meet up with your friends than a place to get coffee. In America, this is not the case. Many people stop by cafes and bring their laptops or homework to sit down in the peace and quiet and get work done. It can still be a place for social gathering, but it seems cafes in America are quieter, with less chit chat going around. 


Additionally, it was brought to my attention from all of the Greek students that if you go with friends to a cafe, it is expected that you will stay there to hang out for hours on end... usually 2, 3, or even longer. It can be considered rude if you leave before this time unless you have given a good reason for departing early. This is much different than America. If someone invites me to go out to a cafe, I expect to stay there for an hour at the max. It's not a place that I personally spend much time at, however, even my friends who really enjoy coffee and cafes typically only stay longer than an hour if their doing homework.




Though cafes are significant parts of both Greek and American culture, their uses and expectations do have their differences, with Greeks seeming more interested in utilizing the social aspect of the shops and Americans enjoying them for quality drinks and light snacks, as well as a nice, quiet place to relax or get work done. 

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