Pasqua Rosée

Pasqua Rosée

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The Vertue of the Coffee Drink

Pasqua Rosée was a pioneering figure in the history of coffee in England, credited with opening the first coffee house in London in 1652. His establishment marked the beginning of a cultural phenomenon that would spread throughout the city and beyond, influencing social and business interactions in the 17th century.

Early Life

Pasqua Rosée was originally from the Ottoman Empire, likely of Greek or Armenian descent. He arrived in England as a servant to a British merchant named Daniel Edwards, who was a member of the Levant Company. This company was instrumental in trade between England and the Middle East, and it was through this connection that Rosée was introduced to coffee.

Introduction of Coffee to England

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Pasqua Rosée's coffee shop, St Michael's Alley

Coffee was already popular in the Middle East and parts of Europe by the time Rosée arrived in England. However, it was relatively unknown to the English public. Rosée's employer, Daniel Edwards, encouraged him to prepare and serve coffee to guests, which quickly gained popularity among Edwards' acquaintances.

Establishment of the First Coffee House

In 1652, Rosée opened his coffee house in St Michael's Alley, Cornhill, London. This establishment was the first of its kind in England, offering a new social space where people could gather to drink coffee, discuss news, and conduct business. The coffee house was an immediate success, attracting a diverse clientele that included merchants, intellectuals, and politicians.

Cultural Impact

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St Michael's Alley, the location of Rosée's coffee house

Rosée's coffee house set the stage for the proliferation of similar establishments throughout London. These coffee houses became known as "penny universities" because, for the price of a penny, one could purchase a cup of coffee and engage in stimulating conversation. They played a crucial role in the dissemination of information and ideas, contributing to the intellectual and cultural life of the city.

Challenges and Legacy

Despite its success, Rosée's coffee house faced challenges, including opposition from tavern owners and criticism from those who viewed coffee as a foreign and potentially harmful beverage. Satirical pamphlets, such as "A broad-side against coffee," mocked the drink and its consumers.

A broad-side against coffee, or, The marriage of the Turk

Nevertheless, the popularity of coffee houses continued to grow, and they became an integral part of English society. Rosée's pioneering efforts laid the foundation for the coffee culture that persists in England today.

Related Pages

• Coffeehouse
• History of coffee
• 17th century London
• Levant Company