Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a significant coffee-producing nation, renowned for its high-quality Arabica beans, particularly from the highland regions. Coffee is deeply intertwined with the country's economy and the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers. While the production is world-class, the ways to order coffee within PNG itself can vary from very basic to increasingly sophisticated, especially in urban centers like Port Moresby and the highland towns (e.g., Goroka, Mt. Hagen).

Here are the different ways you can expect to order a coffee in Papua New Guinea and what's in them:

Locally Grown & Brewed Coffee (The Authentic PNG Experience):

This is the heart of coffee in PNG. About 95% of the coffee produced is Arabica, often grown in small "coffee gardens" alongside other crops, primarily wet-processed. PNG coffee is known for its bright acidity, clean flavor, and notes of caramel, malt, citrus, and sometimes chocolate.

• "Local Coffee" / "PNG Coffee" / "Highlands Coffee": This refers to coffee made from beans grown right in Papua New Guinea. You'll find various regions producing distinct flavors (e.g., Eastern Highlands, Western Highlands, Simbu).

• What's in it: Freshly roasted and ground Papua New Guinean Arabica beans (Typica, Bourbon, Arusha varieties are common).

• Preparation: This can vary significantly. In rural areas or local markets, it might be brewed simply, perhaps even steeped directly. In more developed towns, cafes will use these local beans for espresso, drip coffee, or pour-over.

• How to order: Ask for "local coffee" or "PNG coffee." Inquire about the region if you're a connoisseur (e.g., "Do you have coffee from Goroka/Mt. Hagen?").

• Drip Coffee / Brewed Coffee: This is a common way to serve coffee in hotels, guesthouses, and many local eateries. It offers a straightforward taste of the local beans.

• What's in it: Ground local or imported coffee beans, hot water. Served black, with sugar and milk(fresh, evaporated, or powdered) available on the side.

Instant Coffee (Widespread and Convenient):

Like many developing nations, instant coffee remains a very common and convenient option across PNG, especially outside of dedicated cafes.

• Instant Coffee: You'll find this in most homes, smaller roadside stalls, and many basic accommodations.

• What's in it: Instant coffee granules dissolved in hot water. Typically served with ample sugar and powdered milk/creamer.

Espresso-Based Coffees (Growing in Urban Centers):

In Port Moresby, Lae, and the larger towns in the Highlands, you'll find modern cafes that offer a range of espresso-based drinks, catering to a more international palate and a growing middle class.

• Espresso / Short Black: A concentrated shot of coffee.

• Doppio: A double shot of espresso.

• Long Black: Hot water first, then a double shot of espresso poured over it. This preserves the crema.

• Latte / Café Latte: Espresso with a larger amount of steamed milk and a thin layer of foamed milk on top.

• Cappuccino: Espresso with steamed milk and a thicker layer of foamed milk on top, often dusted with chocolate powder.

• Flat White: While an Australian/NZ staple, it's becoming more common in cafes influenced by these regions. Espresso with velvety, steamed milk and very little foam.

• Macchiato (Short or Long): Espresso "marked" with a dollop of milk or foam.

• Mocha / Mochaccino: Espresso combined with chocolate syrup (or cocoa powder) and steamed milk, often topped with whipped cream.

• Ristretto: A shorter, more concentrated espresso shot.

Iced & Blended Coffee Drinks:

Given PNG's tropical climate, cold coffee drinks are refreshing and gaining popularity.

• Iced Coffee: This can vary. It might be a simple black coffee over ice. However, in some places, it might be a sweeter drink with coffee, milk, ice cream, and possibly whipped cream and syrup.

• Iced Latte/Cappuccino/Mocha: Chilled versions of their hot counterparts, made with espresso, cold milk, and ice.

• Blended Coffee / Frappe: Some modern cafes will offer blended iced coffee drinks with various flavorings and toppings.

• Cold Brew: Less common, but some specialty cafes might offer cold brew, which is coffee steeped in cold water for a long period, resulting in a smoother, less acidic concentrate served over ice.

Key things to remember when ordering coffee in Papua New Guinea:

• Embrace Local: Don't miss the opportunity to try coffee made from locally grown PNG beans. It's often high quality and distinct.

• Be Specific: If you're looking for an espresso-based drink, clearly ask for "latte," "cappuccino," etc. If you just ask for "coffee," you'll likely get instant coffee or a basic brewed coffee, especially outside of major towns.

• Expect Sweetness: Many local palates prefer sweet beverages, so coffee might be served pre-sweetened or with ample sugar available.

• Infrastructure Challenges: While coffee is a major export, infrastructure can be challenging. This means a consistent supply of specialty beans or fresh milk might vary in more remote areas.

• "Gud de!" (Good day in Tok Pisin): A friendly greeting in Tok Pisin (the lingua franca) is always a good start.

*The content in this document was generated using artificial intelligence, drawing from various online sources, and subsequently refined for accuracy and conciseness in 2025. Users are advised to consult multiple sources to corroborate information and should not rely solely on this document for comprehensive research.