I admit it. I am a java junkie.  Without at least one cup of coffee in the morning I am completely useless. The rational part of me understands that, yes, it would probably be better for my health if I did not drink caffeine. But the foodie in me can’t seem to part ways with my coffee cup.

Coffee is an essential part of almost any meal, whether formal or informal. Not just because I am addicted to the stuff, but because it plays such an important part in entertaining, I will be dedicating a series of posts over the next few weeks to the topic.

In this first post, I will cover coffee serveware.  In future posts, I’ll cover creamer and sugar sets, coffee accessories, coffee and espresso machines, and other coffee accoutrements.

COFFEE SERVEWARE

After you’ve brewed the perfect pot of coffee, it is important to consider in what you will be serving it. For small gatherings (six or less people) it’s perfectly acceptable to use the carafe from your coffee maker.

For larger gatherings (6-12 people) or for times when you feel guests will enjoying lingering over a few cups of coffee, it is important to have a functional carafe, and preferably a thermal one to keep the coffee hot over time.

For new entertainers, one of my favorite carafes to consider is the Mirror Carafe from Crate & Barrel. The price point is accessible, the coffee stays hot for many hours, and its simple aesthetic is appealing:

The creme de la creme brand of thermal carafes is considered to be Alfi. Their wide selection of carafes offers something for everyone.

This Alfi Opal carafe would be perfect for outdoor entertaining.

Non-thermal coffee carafes abound. Oftentimes, carafes are offered as part of a china service so if you are registering for or completing your china set, consider including the carafe in the pieces you select. Otherwise, simply scout out a carafe that you like. Here are some beautiful options.

For fans of french pressed coffee (and who isn’t?!), Bodum’s thermal press available at Sur La Table is lovely. Thermal presses are not as ubiquitous as regular french presses, but are far more functional — solving the frustrating issue the coffee getting cold quickly in the press after the first pour.

Bodum also makes a double-walled glass french press, also available at Sur La Table, that also keeps coffee warm for up to two hours — a nice alternative if one does not like the somewhat bulkier look of a thermal press.

For larger parties, you cannot go wrong with this functional and handsome coffee urn from All Clad, available at Williams-Sonoma: