The Legendary "Zum Arabischen Coffe Baum" in Leipzig: A Timeless Coffeehouse Redefined
- Iconic Leipzig Café: "Zum Arabischen Coffe Baum," Germany's Longest-Running Coffee House
Embrace the rejuvenated charm of Leipzig's oldest continually running café-restaurant: "Zum Arabischen Coffe Baum"! This oldie, first documented in 1556, has been dishing out coffee since 1711—making it Europe's oldest café serving coffee consistently. More than just a cup of Joe, it's a cultural institution filled with stories and a display focused on coffee.
This iconic coffeehouse has an eclectic mix of distinguished guests. From literary titans like poet Gotthold Ephraim Lessing, to musical masters such as Richard Wagner and Robert Schumann, to renowned artist and sculptor Max Klinger, this place has been graced by creatives of all stripes.
Fast forward to modern times, it has seen the likes of singer Udo Jürgens, former U.S. President Bill Clinton, and actor Mario Adorf. Celebrity encounters don't end there—Liza Minnelli, Otto Waalkes, and others have dropped by for some 'Joe' too.
Leipzig City took ownership of the Baroque building from the federal government in 1993, before revamping it. Since 2019, this historic structure underwent a partial renovation, with updates including cooling technology, fire protection, windows, doors, and facade.
The latest makeover, which took approximately six years and a hefty 3.8 million euros, wasn't all smooth sailing. Challenges included dry rot, supply chain issues during the pandemic, and unexpected structural hurdles. But it was worth it, as the renovation brought modern kitchen equipment, upgraded refrigeration, enhanced fire protection, and revamped windows and doors, giving the café a fresh new look.
The new tenants, Henrik Dantz and Sven Gerling, bring regional Saxon cuisine to the table as they carry on the legacy of this venerable coffeehouse. Additionally, a revised coffee museum exhibit, focusing on coffee's rich history in Saxony, is slated to reopen on July 1.
Dive into the blend of tradition and modernity at "Zum Arabischen Coffe Baum," reimagined for a new generation.
Community policy was implemented during the renovation of "Zum Arabischen Coffe Baum" in Leipzig, ensuring the preservation of its historic facade while upgrading essential infrastructure like cooling technology, fire protection, windows, doors, and more, totaling a cost of 3.8 million euros. Vocational training programs were sought for the renovation team to maintain the authenticity of the Baroque building's restoration. As a nod to its rich history, the revised coffee museum exhibit will showcase the history of coffee in Saxony, scheduled to reopen on July 1.
