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German Café’s ‘Respect the Beans’ Matcha Ban Goes Viral

A viral Instagram photo turned a cheeky café sign into shorthand for a tug-of-war between coffee traditionalists versus the Gen Z matcha craze.

Overview

  • Barista Dritan Alsela shared the photo on September 22, showing a notice that reads, “Matcha drinkers not permitted. This is a complete coffee establishment. Respect the beans.”
  • His post, captioned “Coffee only. Keep the green powder outside,” rapidly drew widespread attention across Instagram and international outlets.
  • Reactions were split, with some praising the humor and defense of coffee culture while others defended matcha and objected to belittling tea drinkers.
  • Coverage situates the moment within matcha’s surge as a lifestyle trend among younger consumers, extending beyond lattes into desserts and other products.
  • Reports highlight the viral image and online discourse without independent verification of any formal policy by the café beyond the posted notice.