The history of coffee is deeply intertwined with the vibrant cultures of the East. While its exact origins remain a subject of legend, it’s widely believed that coffee beans were first cultivated in the highlands of Ethiopia. From there, this invigorating beverage spread throughout the Arab world, eventually captivating Europe and the rest of the globe.
But it’s the story of the croissant that truly captivates the imagination.
In the late 17th century, the Ottoman Empire, a formidable force in Europe, suffered a significant defeat at the hands of the Austrian and Hungarian forces near Vienna. To commemorate this victory, Austrian bakers were commissioned to create a special pastry. Inspired by the crescent moon, the symbol of the Ottoman Empire, they crafted crescent-shaped bread – a symbolic gesture of triumph over their adversaries. This celebratory pastry, with its flaky layers and buttery richness, evolved into the beloved croissant we enjoy today.