Ah, coffee. The elixir of life that gets us all going in the morning. There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly roasted beans, the sound of the grinder whirring, and the steam from the espresso machine. As we head into 2023, let’s take a look at some of the top coffees that are sure to satisfy your caffeine cravings. Last year we had our indie coffee story and here we are again.
Grounds and Hounds
In the realm of coffee culture, LA-based Grounds & Hounds is a standout, blending the joy of coffee with a heartfelt mission. Through their Rescue Roast Initiative, they partner with “Young at Heart,” an Illinois senior pet adoption center, donating 100% of proceeds from their Rescue Roast Blend to various rescue organizations, including Young at Heart until 9/15.
Beyond the blend, Grounds & Hounds consistently donates 20% of profits to animal rescues nationwide. Crafted from 100% Arabica beans, their coffee mirrors the pets they support – diverse and unique. With an eco-friendly approach, their beans are organic or fully traceable.
Indulge in Grounds & Hounds coffee not just for its flavors, but for the goodwill. Every cup supports senior pets and a compassionate community, blending taste with a cause, sip by sip.
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery, celebrated for its hearty breakfasts and irresistible pies, now delivers its distinctive coffee experience to your home. Their coffee line features year-round favorites like Perkins House Blend and Chocolate Pecan Pie, along with seasonal indulgence in Perkins Pumpkin Pie. Enjoy the same flavors that have made Perkins a household name, whether you’re starting your day or need an afternoon caffeine boost. With Perkins coffee products, the warmth and flavor of the diner are available in your own space, making it a comforting way to elevate your coffee break and bring Perkins into your life, one sip at a time. It’s like having the diner’s heartwarming atmosphere in your own kitchen, ensuring you can savor tradition in each cup. In today’s fast-paced world, Perkins Restaurant & Bakery provides a delightful opportunity to pause, savor, and enjoy their classic flavors without leaving your home, turning every coffee break into a cherished experience that truly brings Perkins into your life, one sip at a time.
Uncharted Coffee
Coffee rituals hold a special place in our daily routines, setting the tone for the day ahead. As the holiday season approaches, and we prepare to welcome the new year, Uncharted Coffee, an ethical Black-women-owned coffee roaster, is offering a unique way to savor culturally diverse coffee from across the globe without leaving the comfort of your home.
Uncharted Coffee is on a mission to decolonize the coffee industry and rewrite the narrative for Black and Brown generational farmers worldwide. Their approach shifts the focus from profit-driven trade to a balanced, equitable model that prioritizes the livelihoods of all involved.
This holiday season, consider gifting a Coffee Collective subscription for $75 or selecting a single roast bag for $25 from Uncharted’s thoughtfully curated seasonal collection, featuring light, medium, or dark roasts. These beans are ethically sourced, single origin, environmentally sound, and committed to giving back with 1% for the planet. Uncharted Coffee ensures transparency and farmer equity, connecting coffee lovers to the stories of the communities at the heart of their coffee production.
With Uncharted Coffee, your coffee ritual becomes a meaningful experience, and it’s a gift that keeps on giving, making the holiday season and the year ahead truly special.
Zaza Coffee
If you’re looking for a coffee with a rich and complex flavor profile, look no further than Zaza Coffee. This family legacy business has been serving coffee for over 90 years and knows a thing or two about a good cup of joe. Their high-altitude blends have won awards and accolades, including a spot on the “Best Coffee in Orlando” list by Orlando Sentinel in 2019. Roasted to perfection, Zaza Coffee offers flexible subscription options that allow you to customize your order to fit your preferences. So, surprise someone this Easter with the gift of exceptional, legacy coffee.
BUBS Brew
Looking for something unique? Check out BUBS Naturals, which recently launched its first-ever specialty coffee, BUBS Brew. This is the first and only Whole30 certified coffee available for purchase. Sourced from select growers in Central America, the BUBS Brew Origin Blend pays tribute to Glen ‘BUB’ Doherty, who was heroically killed in Benghazi, Libya in 2012. The medium-bodied roast features slightly sweet honey, cherry, walnut, and floral notes, while the dark, full-bodied roast features a rich chocolatey-cocoa, caramel, and toffee-like sweetness. Plus, with a portion of the proceeds going to the Glen Doherty Memorial Foundation, you can feel good about your purchase.
Partners Coffee
For those who want a premium subscription program, Partners Coffee has got you covered. This company’s unwavering commitment to sourcing and roasting quality coffee has helped them grow and nurture a shared coffee culture and experience since 2012. Their partnerships with farmers, producers, baristas, roasters, businesses, and customers ensure that you get the best quality beans every time. The subscription program is customizable, based on choice brew method and individual taste preferences. And, subscribers receive promos, early access to new roasts, and can manage their subscription via text. So, whether you’re a French press fan or a pour-over aficionado, Partners Coffee has something for everyone.
Bean Box Subscriptions
If you’re a coffee lover looking for something new and exciting to add to your morning routine, Bean Box Coffee Subscriptions are definitely worth considering.
Bean Box partners with some of the best roasters in the country to bring you exclusive, small-batch coffees that you won’t find anywhere else. And the best part? You don’t have to go out of your way to find them. BeanBox delivers them straight to your door.
One of the things I love most about Bean Box is that they make it easy for you to try new things. Every Bean Box coffee is personally selected by their in-house curators who have experience judging award-winning coffees at competitions, including the prestigious Cup of Excellence. So you can trust that every coffee you receive has been carefully chosen for its quality and flavor profile.
But it’s not just about the selection. Bean Box takes freshness seriously. Every coffee is freshly roasted, packaged with love in Seattle, and delivered fast. Peak freshness and flavor are guaranteed.
And let’s not forget the perks of being a Bean Box subscriber. You get free shipping on all subscriptions, exclusive member pricing on all single coffees, and you can earn free coffee with 5% back in credits on every purchase. Plus, as a member, you get VIP treatment with members-only promotions, early access, and surprise gifts!
The Drip Collective
The Drip Collective Coffee is a delightful gem in the heart of Corona, CA. As a family- and veteran-owned business, they embody the spirit of passion and community. Just like a Cuban accent can charm, The Drip Collective’s dedication to specialty coffee captivates your taste buds and warms your soul.
Their commitment to excellence is evident in every sip. They meticulously select the freshest ingredients, ensuring that each unique variety and flavor is showcased at its peak. The result? A harmonious symphony of aromas and tastes that will leave you craving for more.
But what sets The Drip Collective apart is their unwavering core values, reflected even in their name. They are Driven, fueled by purpose and a relentless pursuit of progress. They are Resilient, embracing challenges and conquering them. They are Inspired, infusing their craft with excitement and renewal. And above all, they are Passionate, infusing their love into every cup.
This dedication to constant improvement is palpable in their actions and mindset. They strive to be 1% better each day, never compromising on their core values. It’s this gratitude and devotion that permeates through their coffee, creating an experience that goes beyond a simple drink.
The Drip Collective is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a community. With each visit, you become a part of their story, connecting with like-minded individuals who appreciate the finer things in life. So, if you’re in search of a truly exceptional coffee experience, head to The Drip Collective and savor the taste of passion, dedication, and community in every sip.
Kiss Cafe
Enter the world of Kiss Cafe, where coffee flows through the veins of the Phillips family. In 1977, the coffee bug bit Bob Phillips, igniting a lifelong affair with the captivating realm of coffee. The intricate blends, diverse roasts, and the fascinating history of the humble bean enchanted him, laying the foundation for a coffee dynasty that would span generations.
Today, the legacy lives on through Jason Phillips, affectionately known as Jadakiss, who has imbibed the coffee spirit throughout his illustrious career and everyday existence. And there’s no stopping the coffee fervor, as Jadakiss’s son, Bob’s grandson, Jaewon, joyfully carries the torch forward.
Kiss Cafe was conceived with sincerity and accessibility as guiding principles. Firmly rooted in their heritage, Kiss Cafe proudly presents premium coffee that blends the finest beans with an unwavering commitment to legacy and quality. Each sip from a cup of Kiss Cafe’s divine elixir resonates with a tale handed down through generations, a testament to the enduring passion and influence of this sacred brew.
Mayorca Coffee
Among the countless libations cherished by humanity, coffee stands tall as a global phenomenon. Yet, behind the comforting aroma and invigorating flavor lies an intricate web of trade and toil. Mayorga Coffee emerges as a catalyst for change, daring to reshape the very foundations of the coffee industry.
Martin Mayorga, a man whose roots intertwine with the fertile soils of Latin America, bore witness to the struggles faced by coffee farmers in Guatemala, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Peru. Their exploitation and undervaluation fueled his life’s mission: to rewrite the narrative and uplift the hardworking coffee growers.
In 1995, Mayorga Coffee came into being, a vessel to amplify the voices of small Latin American farmers and create a paradigm shift. Their commitment to sourcing organic, sustainable coffee directly from over 6,000 farmers echoes their unwavering support for fair trade and environmental stewardship. With resolute determination, Mayorga Coffee defies the conventions of the industry, empowering farmers and enlightening discerning coffee enthusiasts.
PinUp Coffee
On the sun-kissed shores of Virginia Beach, a captivating story unfolds—PinUp Coffee, a haven for specialty coffee lovers. Founded by two Navy veterans, this remarkable roaster transcends boundaries, shattering the exclusivity that often veils the world of specialty coffee.
As owners and head roasters, this dynamic duo works hand in hand, fueled by their military background and unwavering passion. PinUp Coffee weaves a tale of camaraderie, community, and superb craftsmanship. Their blends, evocatively named after WWII Pin-up art, such as Slightly Dangerous and Tail Wind, grace the palates of those seeking extraordinary flavors.
PinUp Coffee’s mission transcends the mere act of brewing. With meticulous care, they seek out the finest specialty coffees, exploring their origins, and unlocking their unique characteristics. From seed to sip, they ensure that every cup brims with quality and authenticity. Embracing the diverse preferences of their discerning clientele, PinUp Coffee celebrates the individuality of coffee, inviting all to embark on a flavorful journey.
PureJoy Coffee
As avid explorers of coffee culture, we invite you to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Pure Joy Coffee, where each sip offers an opportunity to connect with the rich Latin culture, embrace moments of tranquility, and uplift coffee communities in Colombia.
Among their extraordinary creations, we highlight “Tropical Summer” – a light roast blend designed to awaken your senses with the warmth of a radiant sunrise. Picture yourself transported to a paradisiacal setting as the flavors of creamy Cacao, Hazelnut, Yellow Peach, and Blueberries tantalize your taste buds.
For an optimal tasting experience, we recommend brewing methods such as Chemex, AeroPress, or French Press. These techniques extract the essence of the coffee beans, accentuating the tropical notes and enveloping your palate in a blissful symphony of flavors.
Join us in celebrating the art of coffee as we embark on a journey that pays homage to Latin culture and uplifts the coffee communities of Colombia. Indulge in the pure joy of Pure Joy Coffee’s “Tropical Summer” and let your taste buds revel in the harmonious delights of paradise. Cheers to an unforgettable coffee experience!
Cafe Grumpy
In our quest to explore exceptional coffee experiences, we stumbled upon Cafe Grumpy’s remarkable collaboration with César Fernandez, a talented coffee farmer from Las Flores. The roots of this partnership trace back to the 2010 Honduran Cup of Excellence auction, where César secured an impressive fourth-place position. Intrigued by his success, Cafe Grumpy acquired a small portion of César’s lot and embarked on a direct relationship with the farmer.
César’s four-hectare farm, graciously bestowed upon him by his father, spans an elevation from 1400 to 1700 meters above sea level, providing a unique setting for coffee cultivation. Only the ripest cherries, a blend of pacas and catuai varieties, are carefully hand-picked before making their way to the Fernandez brothers’ wet mill. There, the cherries undergo meticulous de-pulping and immediate preparation for fermentation. The duration of fermentation, influenced by the unpredictable weather conditions, ranges from 16 to 36 hours.
What sets the Fernandez brothers apart is their friendly sibling rivalry, which fuels their collective ambition for success. Their coffees have garnered admiration from esteemed roasters worldwide, affirming their commitment to excellence. Furthermore, the earnings from their coffee sales are thoughtfully reinvested in their farms and processing facilities, supporting not only their own livelihoods but also the education of their children. By indulging in a cup of Cafe Grumpy’s Las Flores coffee, you actively contribute to the sustainable growth of coffee communities.
22 Salute
Now, let me tell you a little something about 22 Salute. They are a social enterprise on a mission to make a difference in the lives of Veterans and first responders who face mental health challenges like PTSD, depression, and anxiety. They understand the importance of addressing these issues and supporting those who have served our country and communities. And how do they do that? Well, they offer some top-notch Veteran-crafted spirits, but today we’re focusing on their coffee.
This ain’t your average cup of joe, my friend. 22 Salute’s South Texas Mesquite Smoked coffee is a true gem. Picture this – rich, robust flavors with a hint of smokiness that will awaken your taste buds and make you feel like you’re sipping coffee straight from the heart of Texas. It’s the kind of coffee that will put some fire in your belly and make you ready to tackle the day like a true champ. And here’s the best part – with every bag of coffee you purchase, a portion of the profits goes towards supporting The Veterans Connection, a fantastic non-profit organization focused on mental health and suicide prevention for Veterans and first responders. So, you’re not just giving your dad an exceptional coffee experience; you’re also contributing to a worthy cause. It’s a win-win situation, my friend.
Now, let’s talk about the experience of brewing this coffee. Imagine waking up on Sunday morning, the sun peeking through the curtains, and the enticing aroma of 22 Salute’s South Texas Mesquite Smoked coffee filling the air. You stumble into the kitchen, still half-asleep, but the moment you take that first sip, you’re wide awake, ready to take on the world. The flavors dance on your tongue, teasing your senses and leaving you craving for more. It’s the kind of coffee that makes you want to savor every sip and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a hearty breakfast or a slice of your dad’s favorite cake. Trust me, he’ll thank you for introducing him to this coffee wonder.
Hiker’s Brew Coffee – Your Eco-Friendly Adventure Companion!
Attention all nature-loving coffee enthusiasts! I am thrilled to introduce you to Hiker’s Brew Coffee – a brand that’s not only passionate about delivering delicious coffee but also dedicated to making a positive impact on the environment. With their focus on sustainability, Hiker’s Brew Coffee is the perfect companion for your outdoor adventures, camping trips, and everyday coffee moments.
Compostable Packaging: Hiker’s Brew Coffee takes sustainability seriously, and their commitment is evident in their packaging. They use compostable materials for their coffee packaging, which means you can enjoy your coffee guilt-free, knowing you’re contributing to a greener planet. The Kraft material and inside film are ASTM D6400 Certified, ensuring they can be composted to return valuable nutrients back to the soil. Plus, it’s easy to compost at home or with local compost collection services, further reducing waste.
One Order = One Tree Planted: Hiker’s Brew Coffee has partnered with One Tree Planted, a fantastic organization focused on reforestation efforts. For every order placed through their website, a tree is planted in areas that need reforestation due to natural wildfires, droughts, or flooding. By savoring your coffee, you are contributing to reforestation and supporting a healthier eco-system. So, sip and know you’re making a difference!
Carbon Neutral Shipping: Making strides to become a greener company, Hiker’s Brew Coffee offers Carbon Neutral Shipping. They offset carbon emissions produced during shipping by investing in carbon reduction projects. When you check out, you have the option to add a small amount to pay for Carbon Neutral Shipping. It’s a small investment with a significant impact on combating their carbon footprint.
Climate Neutral and 1% for the Planet: Hiker’s Brew Coffee goes the extra mile by offsetting all carbon emissions produced in manufacturing and shipping, making them Climate Neutral certified. Additionally, as a member of 1% for the Planet, they donate 1% of their revenue to verified non-profit organizations dedicated to preserving and restoring our environment.
Savor the delicious flavors of Hiker’s Brew Coffee while knowing you’re supporting a brand committed to sustainable practices. Join their eco-friendly journey and make every coffee moment count. To explore their range and contribute to a greener world, visit their website at https://www.hikersbrewcoffee.com/. Together, let’s enjoy nature’s beauty while preserving it for future generations. Cheers to sustainable coffee adventures!
Meet the inspiring Leiva family and their exceptional coffee business, Leiva’s Coffee. Their journey began in the 1950s on the Leiva family farm in Guatemala, and it has since grown into a full-service coffee roasting company that stands for more than just coffee.
From Seed to Cup: A Journey of Love and Dedication
The Leiva family’s passion for coffee shines through every step of their journey, from seed to cup. They are committed to elevating the craft of coffee by educating farmers, employees, and customers. Sourcing quality, fair trade beans from their family farm and neighboring communities is at the core of their values, fostering a sense of togetherness and support.
Leiva’s Coffee isn’t just about business; it’s about making a positive impact on their community and the environment. They devote 10% of their proceeds to education, sanitation, and sustainability projects in their Central American homeland. By creating employment opportunities and providing further education in a poverty-stricken region, the Leiva family is truly making a difference.
Coffee farming is a legacy in the Leiva family, passed down through generations. Geovanni’s grandfather, Ezequiel Leiva, was a coffee farmer, as were his ancestors. Today, in the hills southeast of Guatemala City, the family’s coffee farm named “La Esperanza” thrives, thanks to the hard work and passion of the Leiva family and their community of workers.
Leiva’s Coffee preserves the essence of coffee craftsmanship through their hands-on approach. Every batch of coffee beans is carefully hand-roasted in small quantities, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors and aromas. From the rich dark roast infused with comforting pumpkin spice to the velvety smoothness of their medium roast inspired by their beloved matriarch, Reina Leiva, every cup is an extraordinary experience.
Despite challenges, including the COVID pandemic, Leiva’s Coffee has shown remarkable resilience. Their subscription coffee delivery service, available online, and a strong focus on quality have allowed them to reach coffee enthusiasts worldwide.
To learn more about Leiva’s Coffee and savor their delightful coffee blends, visit their website at www.leivascoffee.com. The Leiva family’s journey is an inspiration, and we hope their story fills your heart with warmth and hope for a better tomorrow. Cheers to the Leiva family and the joy they bring to coffee lovers worldwide!