Wholesale coffee prices have surged between 45 and 65%, leading to a significant increase in the cost of coffee in both retail outlets and cafes. The price hike is attributed to a combination of adverse weather conditions and speculative activities by traders. As a result, the cost of espresso capsules and Greek ground coffee is expected to rise considerably. Cafe owners are facing pressure to pass on the increased costs to customers, exacerbated by a 24% tax on each cup of coffee. The article highlights that the high coffee prices are causing a dilemma for cafes, as they struggle to maintain customer numbers by keeping prices low for takeaway coffee.