06/08/2014

Available for over a year

Jonathan Freedland looks at the boom in coffee shops now and in the 17th century. The first coffee shop opened in London in 1652 and before long business was booming. As social hubs where people came to catch up on the latest news, customers flocked to get their daily fix of caffeine. But by the end of the 17th century, tastes were changing and tea started to overtake coffee as the nation's favourite drink. Jonathan looks at the lessons for today's coffee shops with guests including food critic Jay Rayner. Actor Mark Aiken who played one half of the Gold Blend couple provides the historical readings. Producer: Laurence Grissell.