aftenkaffe

Aftenkaffe is a Norwegian term for the practice of drinking coffee in the evening, typically after dinner. It is part of the country's long-standing coffee culture and is commonly observed in families and among friends as a chance to unwind and socialize after a meal. The term translates roughly as "evening coffee."

Traditionally, aftenkaffe is a lighter or ordinary cup of coffee, served warm, sometimes accompanied by dessert, cookies, or lefse. It can be part of a daily routine or reserved for special occasions when guests are present.

In practice, aftenkaffe can vary by household and region. Some households prefer decaffeinated coffee late in the day to avoid sleep disruption, while others keep a regular brew. The setting is usually informal, with small talk and gentle conversation flowing as people sip coffee. The tradition is less about caffeine content and more about hospitality and social ritual.

In modern Norway, aftenkaffe continues to be common, though urban routines and late hours have altered its practice. It remains a flexible concept: sometimes a simple late-evening cup after supper; other times the final course of a meal with dessert; in many cases it is enjoyed in the company of family or visitors. It is related to the broader Norwegian coffee culture and to the idea of kveldskaffe.