A classic red cup with the signature logo: the brand is known not only for its coffee but also for the stylish glassware in which it is served around the world. As true masters of coffee service, Meinl has always paid special attention to glassware and presentation. After all, the right cup can transform simply good coffee into an unforgettable experiencefor all the senses.
The history of the branded tableware and logo
Julius Signature Tableware Meinl is inextricably linked to the history of the brand itself and its famous logo. The Julius logo Meinl—the same fez-wearing boy who adorns every cup—was born almost a hundred years ago. In 1924, Viennese graphic artist Josef Binder created a recognizable image for the company: the silhouette of a young boy wearing a traditional Turkish fez cap. This symbol alludes to the legend of how coffee came to Vienna from the Ottoman Empire—a tribute, in a way, to the origins of the beloved drink. Over the years, the logo has undergone several stylistic updates, but the essence remains unchanged: the same fez-wearing boy continues to stare at us from coffee packaging and coffee cups, embodying the fusion of Eastern and Viennese traditions.
A new chapter in the history of the logo and tableware began in 2004, when renowned designer Matteo Thun was brought in to work on the brand. The Italian-Austrian designer gave the logo a modern, laconic look—he simplified the form, made the silhouette a solid red—and literally “brought it to life” in porcelain. Thun not only updated the logo but also embodied its ideas in three-dimensional forms: for example, the shape of the Trend series cups echoes an inverted fez—the red cap became the inspiration for the design of Meinl cups, coffee pots, and glasses . Matteo Thun himself noted that the iconic logo attracted him with the grace and elegance of Viennese cafés, and the task was to “give the shape new color and capture the sophistication of Viennese coffee culture.” Thus, the signature Julius tableware Meinl has developed a unique stylethat combines vintage motifs and modern forms.
Julius tableware collections Meinl and their purpose
Over the years of collaborating with designers, the company has created several exclusive collections of signature tableware, each with its own purpose and character. The core of the assortment consists of three lines of professional porcelain: Classic (white with a red logo ) ,Premium ( Ivory ) ,and Trend (red)– all designed by Matteo Thun and designed to bring the charm of Viennese coffee tradition to every establishment. Let’s take a look at these collections and their features:
- Classicis a classic seriesof thick-walled porcelain for espresso and cappuccino. These cups and saucers feature the same “red and white”combination that has become the brand’s signature. These classic cups, often bright red with a white logo or white with a red emblem, are designed for intensive daily use in cafes and restaurants. They are durable, retain heat well, and have a convenient shape for serving traditional espresso (usually ~75 ml) or a longer coffee. The Classic series is designedfor universal use: it is a tableware for everyday coffee serving in a corporate style, suitable for both small Viennese coffee shops and large hotels. These classic cups are instantly recognizable by customers and emphasize the status of an establishment that serves Meinl coffee .
- Trendis a contemporary seriesthat embodies the innovative design of Matteo Thun. The Trend Cupis one of the company’s most popular cups. Its innovative shape enhances the flavor and aroma of coffee. For example, the slightly tapered opening concentrates the aroma, while the thick base maintains the beverage’s temperature. The Trend series design, as the manufacturer describes it, is “a classic theme with a modern twist.” Trend cups feature elegant curves, comfortable handles, and can be decorated with contrasting elements (for example, a black handle on a red cup or a red logo on white porcelain). The purpose of the Trend seriesis to add a contemporary style to coffee serving. These cups are ideal for trendy coffee shops and restaurants that want to offer guests not only delicious coffee but also an impressive presentation. The Trend series is available in a variety of sizes: from small mugs for ristretto and espresso (≈75 ml) to cappuccino (~180 ml) and even large latte mugs. All of them are united by a common concept – maximum taste and aesthetics in every cup.
- Premium ( Ivory )– a premium collection of ivory-colored porcelain . Thislinewas created for the most sophisticated occasions. Ivoryis made of high-quality porcelain in a delicate creamy ivory hue with elegant relief decoration and a logo. Part of the work is done by hand, giving each cup a particularly sophisticated look. The high-quality craftsmanship and unique shape allow the coffee to fully reveal its delicate aroma and flavor. This series includes espresso and cappuccino cups, as well as a milk jug, sugar bowl, and other service elements—all in a unified style of noble understatement. Purpose of the Premium Series Ivory– fine Diningand status serving. These cups are often used in prestigious restaurants and luxury hotels, and are also perfect as gifts for brand connoisseurs. The neutral ivory color complements the creamy foam of a cappuccino, while a gold or embossed logo adds a touch of retro luxury to the serving. It’s no wonder this line is sometimes called ” Ivory , ”emphasizing its elegance and connection to the heritage of Viennese cafés of the early 20th century.
In addition to the three main collections, the company also produces special editions and accessories. For example, the limited edition 1862 Vienna ( Luxury ) lineis dedicated to the year the company was founded and the premium 1862 coffee blend. Matteo Thun created special cups for this line: deep black, with the boy’s logo applied in genuine gold paint using a broad brushstroke. If you look at the bottom of such a cup, you can see the number 1862 , a reminder ofJulius’s rich history . Meinl . These luxurious porcelain sets (espresso, cappuccino, tea) are sold in limited editions and are intended for the most discerning guests. They adorn tables in fine dining restaurants serving exclusive 1862 coffee. The company also periodically collaborates with contemporary artists and designers, releasing capsule collections of tableware (for example, the The Originalsor themed mugs for holidays). These items are collectible by brand connoisseurs worldwide.
teawaredeserves special mention . In addition to coffee cups, the brand offers a full range of tea serving items: elegant porcelain teapots, tea cups and saucers, tea caddies, tea strainers, and even stylish glass mugs for herbal infusions. The tea collection often complements the coffee set when serving breakfast or afternoon tea, maintaining the brand’s signature style (either directly with the logo or in the signature red and white design). Thus, whether it’s coffee or tea, the brand’s signature teaware creates a unified, harmonious atmosphere.
Functionality and design: from tradition to innovation
Each collection of tableware was developed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind for the HoReCa segment . Professional baristas and restaurateurs value this tableware not only for its beautiful appearance but also for its properties, which help bring out the flavor of drinks and ensure ease of service. Here are some key design features ofMeinl signature tableware :
- Thick-walled porcelain and a thoughtful shape.All cups are made of durable, thick-walled porcelain. The thick walls and bottom help maintain the optimal temperature of espresso or cappuccino for longer, allowing guests to enjoy the drink while it’s still hot. Furthermore, the weight and balance of the cup are designed for a comfortable hold. Many cups feature a slightly tapered top—a classic technique that concentrates the aroma under the taster’s nose. This shape, for example, is used in the design of the Trend cup: it “enhances the aroma and refined flavor of coffee”thanks to its innovative silhouette.
- Sizes for every drink.Our collections cover all the main coffee serving formats . The Classic and Trend lines feature miniature cups (~60–75 ml) for ristretto and doppio , standard cups (~110–120 ml) for Americano , ~150–180 ml for cappuccino, and larger mugs (~250–300 ml) for latte or mocha. All are standardized, making them convenient for baristas—for example, a signature 30 ml espresso fits perfectly in a 75 ml Classic cup, leaving room for the cream and preventing it from spreading across the wide surface. A 150 ml cappuccino is ideally poured into a 180 ml cup, leaving room for rich milk foam. Thus, each piece in the collection is tailoredto a specific drink, helping to preserve the original Viennese or Italian serving recipe.
- Ergonomics for HoReCa .Since the main audience is professional establishments, the design takes into account HoReCa requirements . Cups are easily stacked (placed one inside another) in a heat holder. Coffee machines don’t get stuck or scratched thanks to a high-quality glaze. Saucers have an optimal diameter: large enough to accommodate a spoon, chocolate, or sugar. Cup handles are durable and comfortable, designed for frequent use and cleaning. Many items (such as milk jugs and teapots) are made of impact-resistant porcelain or glass, increasing their lifespan under intensive use. The company also offers branded accessories—trays, cup holders, paper napkins, and staff apparel—to create a cohesive and memorable image for the establishment.
The traditional Viennese coffee service:a small melange or cappuccino in a porcelain cup on a silver tray, next to a glass of water and a spoon placed across the glass. This service is the hallmark of Viennese coffee houses, and the company actively supports this tradition. In classic Viennese coffee houses, any coffee ordered is served exactly this way: a cup of coffee is brought to the guest on a shiny metal tray, along with a shot of cool water, and a teaspoon placed on top of the glass. It is said that the water is served to refresh the palate before tasting the coffee, and the spoon is placed on the glass as a sign that the guest has not yet touched the water. The tray is complemented with a small surprise – a signature chocolate bar or a piece of refined sugar. The tableware fully supports this coffee ceremony: the diameter of the saucers and trays is calculated to accommodate everything comfortably; signature spoons and water glasses are also available. As the company itself notes, it is “those finishing touches that turn a simply good cup of coffee into an exceptional one”– and Meinl strives to provide every business partner with everything they need to create a unique coffee shop atmosphere.
Tableware for business ( HoReCa ) and as a gift
Today, branded tableware serves two purposes: it functions as a professional toolfor the hospitality industry and simultaneously serves as a status symbol and giftfor coffee connoisseurs.
For the HoReCa sector(coffee shops, restaurants, hotels), Meinl tableware has become synonymous with quality and tradition. When a guest sees an espresso served in a cup featuring the silhouette of a boy in a fez, they subconsciously expect high-quality service and excellent coffee. Many establishment owners choose the company’s comprehensive solution: branded cups, menus, signage, and staff training in serving culture are provided along with the coffee. This comprehensive brandingbuilds guest trust and creates the right atmosphere: in a cozy coffee shop with red Meinl cups, guests feel part of the legendary Viennese coffee culture. Moreover, the practical benefits are obvious: the durability of porcelain reduces the cost of frequent replacement of the tableware, and the thoughtful design speeds up and facilitates the barista’s work.
Owners and managers of restaurants and hotelsappreciate that they receive more than just mugs and saucers, but a whole story for their guests. Each cup can tell a legend – about 1862 and the first coffee beans in Vienna, about the artists who redesigned the logo, or about the “Pay with Poetry” poetry campaign that the brand organizes worldwide. All this makes tableware a part of the marketing and customer experience. F&B buyersshould consider adding Meinl signature tableware to their must-have list if they strive for high service standards and want to differentiate their coffee offerings from competitors.
Branded tableware is no less appealing as a gift. Many coffee lovers dream of having a pair of coffee cups from the famous Viennese café at home. The brand produces special gift sets: for example, a set containing a pack of signature Jubilaeum coffee(anniversary blend) and a porcelain cup in a beautiful box makes an excellent corporate gift or a present for a coffee-loving friend. Gift sets of two cappuccino cups and saucers are also popular (for creating a Viennese coffee ritual at home). The elegant design of these sets gives them a prestigious appearance: simply adding the Meinl logo evokes a sense of classic quality.
Collector’s value also plays a role. Some limited editions (for example, cups with the gold 1862 logo or vintage red cups from the mid-20th century) become rare over time. They are acquired at auctions and treasured as part of the history of coffee culture. Therefore, by giving a business partner or loved one a signature set as a gift, you’re giving not just a piece of tableware, but a piece of legendary Vienna, the atmosphere of an ancient coffee house. Such a gift will be remembered and will bring joy to the recipient for a long time.
Matteo Thun: The designer who brought the Meinl legend to life
Matteo Thundeserves special attention – a man whose name is inextricably linked with the modern look of the brand’s tableware. Thun is an Italian and Austrian designer and architect, one of the co-founders of the Memphis design group in the 1980s, and the recipient of numerous design awards. His style is distinguished by his ability to combine tradition and innovation, giving familiar objects a fresh look. For Julius Meinl Matteo Thun became the true godfatherof the brand’s identity in the new millennium. Under his leadership, key elements of the brand design were developed in 2004–2005, from the updated logo to the full line of tableware and accessories.
Matteo Thun approached the task creatively and respectfully. Taking the old logo with the Moorish boy as a basis, he reimagined it: he straightened the profile, simplified the lines, and made the silhouette monochromatic (bright red), thereby making the image more modern and freeing it from outdated connotations. The designer succeeded in giving the logo new life—and immediately transported it into a three-dimensional world. Thun admitted that, upon seeing old images of the Meinl logo , he was reminded of angels in Baroque frescoes, and this idea inspired him when creating the cup shapes. This is how the iconic Meinl cups were born , where the inverted fez became the outline of the cup itself, and the curve of the handle an elegant stroke reminiscent of the curls of Renaissance architecture.
Over more than 20 years of collaboration, Matteo Thun has developed the complete premium porcelain range Julius Meinl– from espresso cups to large mugs, from glasses to coffee pots. Each piece is carefully crafted down to the last detail: the angle of the sides, the diameter of the saucer, the shape of the teapot spout. His work ensured a unified style across every aspect of the service. Furthermore, the Matteo studio Thun & Partners created a line of bar accessories and decorative elements for the brand, featuring a signature design and Viennese flair. These include engraved silver trays, menu holders, and even barista uniforms—all in the spirit of Julius. Meinl .
Matteo Thun effectively helped the company re-establish itself as a premium, world-class coffee brandwhen it was expanding into new markets in the early 2000s. His professional tableware designs, inspired by the ideas of Viennese Art Nouveau (in particular, the motifs of the Wiener Werkstätte/ Wiener The Meinl brand’s signature coffee cup, also known as the Werkstätte, set Meinl apart from its competitors. Today, in over 70 countries where the brand operates, millions of people drink coffee from cups created by Matteo Thun. And every time—whether in a cozy café in Budapest or a five-star hotel in Dubai—these cups give guests a sense of belonging to a rich coffee culture, fusing Viennese traditions with contemporary design.
In conclusion ,Julius branded tableware Meinl isn’t just plates and cups; it’s a story told in every restaurant and café that partners with the brand. This story encompasses everything: centuries-old traditions (Viennese serving with water on a tray), vibrant imagery (a boy in a fez, instantly recognizable), design innovations (aroma-enhancing cups), and luxury and elegance (premium handcrafted porcelain). Filling a cup with aromatic espresso is like flipping through the pages of coffee history—from 1862 to the present day—and giving guests not just a drink, but a “moment of inspiration,” as the company likes to say. It’s no wonder Julius Meinl ‘s mission statement is “Bring the spirit of the Viennese café to the world.” Signature tableware plays a vital role in this mission – through it, the spirit of Vienna truly resonates at every table, evoking a smile in satisfied guests and a desire to return for another cup.