Acknowledgments

This book is dedicated to Karitas Sigurdsson-Mitrogogos, who took me under her wing in Vienna and enthusiastically guided me through an incredible itinerary of coffeehouses and bakeries. Karitas became my guide, translator, concierge, and “matchmaker” as she introduced me to Viennese who knew the coffeehouse business inside out. Karitas and her husband, Alexander, now feel like family, and I will always be grateful for their friendship.

My research trips to Vienna, Budapest, and Prague were made pleasurable thanks to the efforts of many, many people who took time out of their busy lives.