History of Coffee in Yemen

The Rise of Mocha

From the historic port city of Mocha, coffee was exported across the globe. The name “Mocha” became synonymous with coffee itself — a testament to Yemen’s role in shaping global coffee culture.

For centuries, Yemen was the center of the coffee trade, supplying beans to the Middle East, North Africa, and Europe.

A Tradition Preserved

Despite the challenges Yemen has faced over time, it remains one of the few places in the world where coffee is still grown through traditional, small-scale methods.

Farmers continue to hand-pick ripe coffee cherries, sun-dry the beans on raised beds, and preserve heirloom varieties passed down through generations. This dedication creates a coffee experience that is rich, bold, and deeply rooted in history.

Yemeni coffee is more than a beverage — it is a cultural legacy. At Būn Chai, we honor this heritage by bringing the story, tradition, and flavor of Yemen to every cup.