Must-Do Work-from-Café Etiquette Around the World

The Unspoken Rules of Global Coffee Culture In the age of remote everything, cafés have become second homes. Whether you’re a digital nomad in Lisbon or a freelancer in Seoul, grabbing a latte and opening your laptop is more than just routine — it’s a lifestyle. But not all cafés are created equal, and neither are their unspoken rules. Across the globe, café culture reflects local rhythms, values, and expectations. What’s chill in Copenhagen might feel disruptive in Kyoto. And while you might be used to spending three hours with a single cappuccino, elsewhere that’s a quick way to get side-eyed — or asked to leave. Let’s take a virtual seat in coffee shops around the world and decode the subtle do’s and don’ts of working from your favorite caffeine-fueled spot.
Young person working on a laptop in a modern, bustling cafe with a coffee cup, showing a relaxed yet productive atmosphere.

 Volume Matters

In Japan and much of East Asia, silence is seen as a form of respect — especially in small, shared spaces. Taking calls or watching videos without headphones? Total faux pas.

By contrast, in Latin America, especially places like Colombia or Argentina, cafés are lively social hubs. A bit of chatter? Totally expected — just keep your work conversations low-key.

Subtle tip: When in doubt, match the room. Are locals whispering or laughing out loud? Let that guide your tone.

Quiet Japanese cafe interior where people work silently on laptops, some with headphones, highlighting a serene and respectful atmosphere.
Silence is golden in Japanese cafe culture.

One Drink = One Hour? Not Always.

In France, nursing a single espresso for hours is almost an artform — no one will rush you. But in the U.S., you’re usually expected to keep buying if you’re staying long.

In Vietnam, many café-goers order food or specialty drinks and stay for hours — but large cafés are built for that. In Italy, on the other hand? Coffee is often enjoyed standing up — laptops feel out of place.

Global cue: Look around. Are people working? Eating? Leaving after 20 minutes? That tells you a lot.

Busy American cafe with a person on a laptop surrounded by multiple coffee cups, indicating repeat purchases for a long stay.
The unspoken rule of continuous purchases in American cafes.

The Power (Outlet) Dynamic

In Germany and Australia, some cafés offer outlets — but many don’t, on purpose. Bringing a fully charged device is part of the etiquette.

In Thailand or Bali, cafés often cater to remote workers — with outlet access and even coworking areas. Still, don’t monopolize the only socket near the entrance.

Modern etiquette: Don’t be a cable octopus. Keep it neat, minimal, and ask before plugging in.

Tropical cafe coworking space in Thailand or Bali with many accessible power outlets and people working on laptops.
Work paradise: cafes designed for digital nomads.

 Table Territory

In Scandinavia, solo diners often sit at larger tables and leave space for others — especially in busy cafés. Don’t spread out unless the place is empty.

In New York or London, taking a four-top during lunch rush with just your laptop? Major no-no. Time your stay around peak hours — or sit at the bar if available.

 Clean Desk Policy

Universal rule: leave the space better than you found it. Crumpled napkins, water rings, or tangled chargers? Not the vibe. Show appreciation by tidying up — and tipping when appropriate.

The Scandinavian way: sharing tables and leaving space.

Small Gestures, Big Respect

Café etiquette isn’t about rules — it’s about awareness. A quick glance, a polite nod, a second coffee — they go a long way.
Whether you’re setting up in a bustling café in São Paulo or a quiet spot in Kyoto, tuning in to the local flow shows you’re not just a visitor — you’re part of the rhythm.

So next time you crack open your laptop near an espresso machine, remember:
you’re not just working — you’re sharing space.

Friendly female barista smiling warmly at a customer in a cozy cafe setting.

Curious About Café Culture?

Q: How long is it okay to stay at a café while working?
A: Depends on the country. In the US or Germany, 2–3 hours is often fine with a purchase. In Japan or Italy, shorter stays are expected — especially if seating is limited.

Q: Is it okay to take video calls?
A: Generally yes — if done respectfully. Use headphones, keep your voice low, and avoid long conversations in quiet cafés or communal spaces.

Q: What if I don’t see anyone else working?
A: That might signal that the café isn’t laptop-friendly. In some cultures, cafés are more for socializing or dining — not working.

Q: Should I tip differently if I’m staying longer?
A: Great question! In tipping cultures like the US or Canada, leaving a generous tip is appreciated if you’re staying for hours. In countries without tipping customs (like Japan), it’s not expected — but always buy something.

Q: Is using the café’s power outlets okay everywhere?
A: Not always. In some places, it’s considered intrusive unless explicitly offered. Best to ask — or bring a portable charger if unsure.

Q: Can I order just one drink and stay?
A: In some cafés, yes — especially in cities with a strong freelancer culture. In others, especially smaller or family-run spots, it’s respectful to order something every hour or so.


 

Final Sip

Wherever you work from, remember: good manners travel. The most powerful Wi-Fi connection? Respect. It works in every language.