======================================================================== BREWSOUL COFFEE CATALOG — tonygreenberg.com/brewsoul Tony Greenberg's curated coffee intelligence platform Generated: 2026-06-25T18:49:46.794Z 107 specialty coffees · 100 coffee chain rankings ======================================================================== This file is machine-readable. Fetch it at: https://tonygreenberg.com/brewsoul/catalog.txt (plain text) https://tonygreenberg.com/brewsoul/catalog.json (structured JSON) ABOUT BREWSOUL ---------------------------------------- BrewSoul is Tony Greenberg's coffee curation platform — a comprehensive intelligence database covering specialty single-origin lots, competition winners, rare microlots, and the full spectrum of coffee chains from S-tier specialty roasters to F-tier commodity chains. Every coffee is scored on: cupping score, flavor profile, mold test status, farmer transparency, price-per-gram value, and a "wow proxy" (0-100). ======================================================================== PART 1: SPECIALTY COFFEE CATALOG (107 entries) ======================================================================== [gesha-village-lot-74] Name: Gesha Village Lot 74 Producer: Gesha Village Coffee Estate (Ethiopia) Origin: Ethiopia, Bench Maji, SNNPR — Gesha Village Estate Altitude: 1900m Variety: Gesha 1931 · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 94.5/100 (SCA Certified) Tasting Notes: Jasmine, Bergamot, Peach, Raw honey, White tea Price: $85/200g Mold Test: verified (Third-party lab, 2024) Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 65% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Chemex, Aeropress Food Pairings: Lemon tart, Fresh berries, Shortbread Wow Proxy: 95/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Awards: Best of Panama 2023 (Gesha category) Tony's Note: The Gesha that started the modern specialty revolution. Lot 74 is the estate's crown jewel — floral complexity that unfolds over 20 minutes as it cools. If you've never had a coffee that made you question everything you thought you knew, this is it. Buy: Gesha Village Direct — https://geshacoffee.com [black-forager-natural] Name: Black Forager Natural Producer: Onyx Coffee Lab (USA) Origin: Ethiopia, Guji, Oromia Altitude: 2100m Variety: Heirloom Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Natural · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 91/100 (Onyx internal) Tasting Notes: Blueberry, Dark chocolate, Strawberry jam, Wine Price: $32/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 40% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Chemex, Cold brew Food Pairings: Dark chocolate, Blueberry pancakes, Brie Wow Proxy: 75/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Awards: Good Food Awards 2023 Tony's Note: The gateway drug of specialty coffee. If someone tells you they don't like fruity coffee, hand them this. The natural process turns Ethiopian heirlooms into a blueberry bomb that converts skeptics. Buy: Onyx Coffee Lab — https://onyxcoffeelab.com [finca-deborah-aurora] Name: Finca Deborah Aurora Producer: Finca Deborah (Panama) Origin: Panama, Boquete, Chiriquí — Finca Deborah Altitude: 1900m Variety: Gesha · Species: Arabica Processing: Anaerobic Natural · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 93/100 (Best of Panama) Tasting Notes: Tropical fruit, Champagne, Rose water, Mango, Vanilla Price: $120/150g Mold Test: verified (Third-party lab) Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 70% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Siphon Food Pairings: Tropical fruit salad, Crème brûlée, Macarons Wow Proxy: 98/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Awards: Best of Panama 2024 Winner; Producers & Roasters Forum Gold Tony's Note: Jamison Savage doesn't make coffee. He composes it. The Aurora lot uses anaerobic fermentation at controlled temperatures to create something that tastes more like a fine Champagne than any coffee you've ever had. This is where coffee becomes art. Buy: Finca Deborah — https://fincadeborah.com [cat-and-cloud-night-shift] Name: Night Shift Blend Producer: Cat & Cloud (USA) Origin: Blend, Colombia / Ethiopia Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed/Natural Blend · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 86/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Milk chocolate, Caramel, Brown sugar, Walnut Price: $18/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: Espresso, Drip, French press Food Pairings: Chocolate croissant, Banana bread, Oatmeal Wow Proxy: 35/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: The perfect daily driver. Not every coffee needs to be a religious experience. Sometimes you just need a cup that's reliably excellent, pairs with milk without flinching, and costs less than your avocado toast. Night Shift is that cup. Buy: Cat & Cloud — https://catandcloud.com [proud-mary-kenya-aa] Name: Kenya AA Kiambu Producer: Proud Mary (Australia) Origin: Kenya, Kiambu County Altitude: 1750m Variety: SL28 / SL34 · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light-Medium Cupping Score: 90/100 (SCA Certified) Tasting Notes: Blackcurrant, Grapefruit, Tomato, Brown sugar, Sparkling Price: $28/250g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 35% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress, Batch brew Food Pairings: Citrus tart, Goat cheese, Dark berries Wow Proxy: 78/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Awards: Melbourne International Coffee Expo 2023 Tony's Note: Kenya AA is the electric guitar of coffee. SL28 and SL34 varieties produce an acidity so bright it's almost savory — blackcurrant and tomato notes that make you question whether this is really coffee. Proud Mary roasts it to let every note scream. Buy: Proud Mary — https://proudmarycoffee.com [sey-colombia-la-palma] Name: La Palma y El Tucán Sidra Producer: SEY Coffee (USA) Origin: Colombia, Cundinamarca — La Palma y El Tucán Altitude: 1700m Variety: Sidra · Species: Arabica Processing: Lactic Anaerobic · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 91.5/100 (SCA Certified) Tasting Notes: Lychee, Cider apple, Cream, Floral honey, Spice Price: $38/250g Mold Test: verified (SEY transparency report) Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 55% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Chemex Food Pairings: Apple tart, Aged cheddar, Honey cake Wow Proxy: 82/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Sidra is the variety that's rewriting Colombian coffee. A natural Bourbon-Typica hybrid with Ethiopian-like complexity. La Palma's lactic anaerobic process adds a creamy, cider-like quality that's unlike anything else in the catalog. SEY's sourcing is impeccable. Buy: SEY Coffee — https://www.seycoffee.com [george-howell-mamuto] Name: Mamuto AA Producer: George Howell Coffee (USA) Origin: Kenya, Kirinyaga — Mamuto Estate Altitude: 1800m Variety: SL28 · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 92/100 (George Howell internal) Tasting Notes: Raspberry, Red currant, Dark chocolate, Tamarind, Floral Price: $35/340g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 45% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Chemex, Siphon Food Pairings: Raspberry tart, Dark chocolate, Aged gouda Wow Proxy: 80/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Awards: Cup of Excellence Kenya 2022 Tony's Note: George Howell is the godfather of American specialty coffee. He was sourcing single-origin before it had a name. Mamuto AA is his masterclass in Kenyan terroir — the kind of coffee that makes you understand why SL28 is considered the world's greatest coffee variety. Buy: George Howell Coffee — https://georgehowellcoffee.com [intelligentsia-frequency] Name: Frequency Blend Producer: Intelligentsia (USA) Origin: Blend, Latin America / East Africa Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 85/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Milk chocolate, Caramel, Citrus, Toffee Price: $17/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: Drip, Espresso, French press Food Pairings: Toast, Granola, Muffins Wow Proxy: 25/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: The original third-wave daily driver. Frequency has been Intelligentsia's flagship blend for over a decade. It's not going to change your life, but it's going to make every morning slightly better. Reliable, balanced, and available everywhere. Buy: Intelligentsia — https://www.intelligentsia.com [luna-yemeni-haraaz] Name: Yemen Haraaz Red Producer: Luna Coffee (USA) Origin: Yemen, Haraaz Mountains Altitude: 2200m Variety: Yemeni Heirloom (Udaini) · Species: Arabica Processing: Natural · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 93/100 (Alliance for Coffee Excellence) Tasting Notes: Dried fig, Cardamom, Dark cherry, Cacao nib, Spice, Port wine Price: $95/150g Mold Test: verified (Third-party lab) Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 50% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Cezve/Ibrik, Aeropress Food Pairings: Dates, Baklava, Dark chocolate truffles, Aged cheese Wow Proxy: 95/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Awards: Yemen Coffee Championship 2024 Tony's Note: Coffee was born in Yemen. These heirloom varieties have been growing in the Haraaz Mountains for centuries, untouched by modern hybridization. The result is a flavor profile that exists nowhere else on earth — dried fruit, spice, and a body so rich it feels like drinking history. Every cup funds farmers in an active conflict zone. Buy: Luna Coffee — https://lunacoffeeroasters.com [passenger-burundi-kibira] Name: Burundi Kibira Honey Producer: Passenger Coffee (USA) Origin: Burundi, Kayanza Province Altitude: 1800m Variety: Red Bourbon · Species: Arabica Processing: Honey · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 89/100 (Passenger internal) Tasting Notes: Peach, Brown sugar, Vanilla, Plum, Almond Price: $22/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 38% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Kalita Wave, Batch brew Food Pairings: Peach cobbler, Almond croissant, Vanilla ice cream Wow Proxy: 60/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Burundi is the most underrated origin in specialty coffee. Same terroir as Rwanda, same Bourbon varieties, but a fraction of the price. Passenger's honey-processed Kibira is stone fruit heaven — the kind of coffee that makes you wonder why you've been paying twice as much for Ethiopian. Buy: Passenger Coffee — https://www.passengercoffee.com [brandywine-sumatra-gayo] Name: Sumatra Gayo Wet-Hulled Producer: Brandywine Coffee Roasters (USA) Origin: Indonesia, Aceh, Gayo Highlands Altitude: 1500m Variety: Catimor / Typica · Species: Arabica Processing: Wet-Hulled (Giling Basah) · Roast: Medium-Dark Cupping Score: 86/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Cedar, Dark chocolate, Tobacco, Earth, Mushroom, Herbs Price: $19/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: French press, Espresso, Moka pot Food Pairings: Steak, Mushroom risotto, Dark chocolate, Aged cheddar Wow Proxy: 45/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Sumatra is the heavy metal of coffee. The wet-hulled process creates a flavor profile that's polarizing — earthy, herbal, almost funky. You either love it or you don't. But if you do, nothing else scratches the itch. This is the coffee that pairs with a rainy afternoon and a leather-bound book. Buy: Brandywine — https://brandywinecoffeeroasters.com [manhattan-ethiopia-yirgacheffe] Name: Ethiopia Yirgacheffe Kochere Producer: Manhattan Coffee Roasters (Netherlands) Origin: Ethiopia, Yirgacheffe, Kochere Altitude: 2000m Variety: Heirloom Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 90/100 (SCA Certified) Tasting Notes: Lemon, Jasmine, Earl Grey, Apricot, Honey Price: $18/250g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 30% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress, Chemex Food Pairings: Lemon cake, Scones, Light pastries Wow Proxy: 65/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Yirgacheffe Kochere is the benchmark for washed Ethiopian coffee. Floral, citrus, tea-like — it's the coffee that taught the world what 'terroir' means in a cup. Manhattan roasts it with European precision, letting the origin speak without interference. Buy: Manhattan Coffee — https://manhattancoffeeroasters.com [sw-roasting-costa-rica-tarrazú] Name: Costa Rica Tarrazú Honey Producer: SW Roasting (USA) Origin: Costa Rica, Tarrazú Altitude: 1600m Variety: Caturra · Species: Arabica Processing: Red Honey · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 87/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Maple syrup, Red apple, Milk chocolate, Hazelnut Price: $16/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: Drip, Pour-over, Espresso Food Pairings: Waffles, Apple pie, Hazelnut biscotti Wow Proxy: 40/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Costa Rica's honey process is the country's gift to specialty coffee. Red honey leaves some of the fruit mucilage on the bean during drying, creating a sweetness that bridges the gap between washed clarity and natural fruitiness. Tarrazú's volcanic soil adds the rest. Buy: SW Roasting — https://swroasting.com [tim-wendelboe-finca-tamana] Name: Finca Tamana Castillo Producer: Tim Wendelboe (Norway) Origin: Colombia, Huila — Finca Tamana Altitude: 1750m Variety: Castillo · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 89/100 (Tim Wendelboe internal) Tasting Notes: Caramel, Orange, Milk chocolate, Toffee, Clean Price: $22/250g Mold Test: verified (Tim Wendelboe transparency page) Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 60% Brew Methods: Aeropress, Pour-over, Espresso Food Pairings: Orange cake, Caramel flan, Butter cookies Wow Proxy: 55/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Tim Wendelboe is the most transparent roaster on earth. He publishes exactly what he pays farmers, how he sources, and why. Finca Tamana is his longest relationship — a Colombian farm he's been buying from for over a decade. The coffee is clean, sweet, and a masterclass in what 'washed Colombian' should taste like. Buy: Tim Wendelboe — https://timwendelboe.no [ninety-plus-kemgin] Name: Kemgin Lot W2 Producer: Ninety Plus (USA) Origin: Ethiopia, Bench Maji Altitude: 1950m Variety: Wild Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Proprietary Controlled Fermentation · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 94/100 (Ninety Plus internal) Tasting Notes: Mango, Papaya, Vanilla cream, Jasmine, Honey, Cinnamon Price: $150/120g Mold Test: verified (Ninety Plus lab) Transparency Grade: B · Farmer Share: 45% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Siphon Food Pairings: Mango sticky rice, Crème brûlée, Tropical fruit Wow Proxy: 92/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Awards: World Brewers Cup supply 2023 Tony's Note: Ninety Plus is the most controversial name in specialty coffee. Their proprietary fermentation process creates flavor profiles that shouldn't be possible — tropical fruit bombs that taste like someone blended a mango smoothie into your pour-over. Critics call it manipulation. Fans call it genius. You decide. Buy: Ninety Plus — https://ninetypluscoffee.com [counter-culture-hologram] Name: Hologram Blend Producer: Counter Culture Coffee (USA) Origin: Blend, Colombia / Ethiopia Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 86/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Chocolate, Caramel, Berry, Nutty Price: $15/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 35% Brew Methods: Drip, Pour-over, Espresso, French press Food Pairings: Toast, Oatmeal, Chocolate chip cookies Wow Proxy: 30/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Counter Culture publishes their full transparency report every year — every farm, every price, every lot. Hologram is their everyday blend, and it's proof that ethical sourcing and accessible pricing aren't mutually exclusive. The best $15 you can spend on coffee. Buy: Counter Culture — https://counterculturecoffee.com [black-white-natural-ethiopia] Name: The Natural Ethiopia Producer: Black & White Coffee (USA) Origin: Ethiopia, Sidamo Altitude: 1950m Variety: Heirloom Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Natural · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 89/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Strawberry, Blueberry, Grape, Chocolate, Tropical Price: $24/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: Pour-over, Chemex, Cold brew Food Pairings: Berry tart, Yogurt parfait, Chocolate truffles Wow Proxy: 65/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Awards: US Brewers Cup supply 2023 Tony's Note: Black & White has quietly become one of the best roasters in America. Their natural Ethiopians are consistently fruit-forward without being over-fermented — a balance that's harder to achieve than it sounds. This is the coffee you serve to friends who say they don't like black coffee. Buy: Black & White — https://www.blackwhiteroasters.com [dak-colombia-pink-bourbon] Name: Colombia Pink Bourbon Washed Producer: DAK Coffee Roasters (Netherlands) Origin: Colombia, Huila Altitude: 1850m Variety: Pink Bourbon · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 90/100 (SCA Certified) Tasting Notes: Rosewater, Peach, Vanilla, Mandarin, Silky Price: $20/250g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 40% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress Food Pairings: Rose Turkish delight, Peach tart, Vanilla panna cotta Wow Proxy: 72/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Pink Bourbon is the mystery variety of Colombian coffee — nobody's entirely sure of its genetics, but everyone agrees the cup is extraordinary. Floral, peachy, silky body. DAK roasts it with Nordic precision, letting the variety's natural elegance do the talking. Buy: DAK Coffee — https://dfrankfurt.com [regalia-guatemala-huehuetenango] Name: Guatemala Huehuetenango Pacamara Producer: Regalia Coffee (USA) Origin: Guatemala, Huehuetenango Altitude: 1800m Variety: Pacamara · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light-Medium Cupping Score: 88/100 (Cup of Excellence) Tasting Notes: Plum, Dark chocolate, Almond, Citrus zest, Creamy Price: $25/340g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: B · Farmer Share: 30% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Espresso, Chemex Food Pairings: Plum cake, Dark chocolate, Almonds Wow Proxy: 58/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Awards: Cup of Excellence Guatemala 2023 Tony's Note: Pacamara is the giant of coffee varieties — literally. The beans are enormous, and the cup is equally oversized in flavor. Huehuetenango's dry microclimate at altitude creates a unique terroir that gives Pacamara a chocolatey depth you won't find anywhere else. Buy: Regalia Coffee — https://regaliacoffee.com [elida-estate-catuai-natural] Name: Elida Estate Catuaí Natural Producer: Elida Estate (Panama) Origin: Panama, Boquete, Chiriquí — Elida Estate Altitude: 1850m Variety: Catuaí · Species: Arabica Processing: Natural · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 91/100 (Best of Panama) Tasting Notes: Cherry, Rum raisin, Cacao, Tropical fruit, Caramel Price: $55/200g Mold Test: verified (Elida Estate lab) Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 75% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Chemex, Aeropress Food Pairings: Cherry pie, Rum cake, Dark chocolate truffles Wow Proxy: 78/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Awards: Best of Panama 2024 (Catuaí category) Tony's Note: Elida Estate proves that Gesha isn't the only game in Panama. Their Catuaí natural is a revelation — proof that processing and terroir can elevate a 'common' variety into something extraordinary. The Lamastus family has been farming this land for over a century. Buy: Elida Estate — https://elidaestate.com [koppi-rwanda-buf-cafe] Name: Rwanda Buf Café Bourbon Producer: Koppi Roasters (Sweden) Origin: Rwanda, Nyamasheke Altitude: 1800m Variety: Red Bourbon · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 88/100 (Cup of Excellence Rwanda) Tasting Notes: Red grape, Plum, Floral, Caramel, Tea-like Price: $17/250g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 42% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress, Batch brew Food Pairings: Grape tart, Plum cake, Light pastries Wow Proxy: 55/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Awards: Cup of Excellence Rwanda 2023 Tony's Note: Rwanda is the rising star of African coffee. Buf Café washing station produces some of the cleanest, most elegant Bourbons on the continent. Koppi's Nordic light roast lets the terroir shine — red grape, plum, and a tea-like delicacy that makes you forget this costs less than a cocktail. Buy: Koppi — https://koppi.se [orfeo-brazil-mogiana] Name: Brazil Mogiana Natural Producer: Orfeo Coffee (USA) Origin: Brazil, Mogiana, São Paulo Altitude: 1100m Variety: Yellow Bourbon · Species: Arabica Processing: Natural · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 85/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Peanut butter, Dark chocolate, Caramel, Dried fruit, Low acidity Price: $14/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: C Brew Methods: Espresso, French press, Moka pot, Cold brew Food Pairings: Peanut butter toast, Chocolate cake, Tiramisu Wow Proxy: 25/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Brazil is the world's largest coffee producer, and most of it is forgettable. But Mogiana's Yellow Bourbon natural is the exception — nutty, chocolatey, zero acidity, and the best espresso base money can buy at this price. The daily driver for people who like their coffee to taste like coffee. Buy: Orfeo Coffee — https://orfeocoffee.com [hacienda-la-esmeralda-gesha] Name: Hacienda La Esmeralda Gesha Private Collection Producer: Hacienda La Esmeralda (Panama) Origin: Panama, Boquete, Chiriquí — Hacienda La Esmeralda Altitude: 1800m Variety: Gesha · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 95/100 (Best of Panama) Tasting Notes: Jasmine, Bergamot, Peach nectar, Honey, Lemongrass Price: $200/200g Mold Test: verified (Third-party lab) Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 80% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Siphon Food Pairings: Jasmine tea cake, Fresh peaches, Honey comb Wow Proxy: 99/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Awards: Best of Panama 15x winner; Most expensive coffee sold at auction Tony's Note: The coffee that broke the auction record. La Esmeralda's Gesha is the Romanée-Conti of coffee — the benchmark against which all other coffees are measured. If you've never tasted it, you haven't tasted what coffee can be. Buy: Hacienda La Esmeralda — https://haciendaesmeralda.com [ona-coffee-raspberry-candy] Name: Raspberry Candy Producer: ONA Coffee (Australia) Origin: Ethiopia, Guji, Shakiso Altitude: 2100m Variety: Heirloom Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Carbonic Maceration Natural · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 92/100 (ONA internal) Tasting Notes: Raspberry, Candy, Watermelon, Rose, Cream soda Price: $45/200g Mold Test: verified (ONA lab) Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 50% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress Food Pairings: Raspberry sorbet, White chocolate, Macarons Wow Proxy: 90/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Awards: World Barista Championship supply 2023 Tony's Note: Sasa Sestic's ONA pioneered carbonic maceration in coffee, borrowing from winemaking. The result is a coffee that tastes like raspberry candy — literally. Controversial? Absolutely. Delicious? Undeniably. Buy: ONA Coffee — https://onacoffee.com.au [manhattan-gesha-auction-lot] Name: Gesha Auction Lot — Volcanica Producer: Manhattan Coffee Roasters (Netherlands) Origin: Colombia, Nariño — Finca El Vergel Altitude: 1950m Variety: Gesha · Species: Arabica Processing: Double Anaerobic Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 93/100 (SCA Certified) Tasting Notes: Jasmine, Lychee, Vanilla, Lime zest, Silk Price: $65/150g Mold Test: verified Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 55% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Siphon, Chemex Food Pairings: Lychee sorbet, Vanilla bean ice cream, Lime tart Wow Proxy: 92/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Awards: World Brewers Cup supply 2024 Tony's Note: Manhattan is the quiet giant of European specialty. Their Gesha lots from El Vergel are consistently among the best in the world. Double anaerobic washing creates a clarity that lets every floral note ring like a bell. Buy: Manhattan Coffee — https://manhattancoffeeroasters.com [april-ethiopia-halo-beriti] Name: Halo Beriti Washed Producer: April Coffee Roasters (Denmark) Origin: Ethiopia, Yirgacheffe, Gedeo Altitude: 2050m Variety: Heirloom Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 92/100 (April internal) Tasting Notes: White peach, Jasmine, Lemon curd, Earl Grey, Silky Price: $28/250g Mold Test: verified Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 48% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress Food Pairings: Peach tart, Shortbread, Earl Grey cake Wow Proxy: 88/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Awards: World Brewers Cup Champion supply 2021 Tony's Note: April is the most elegant roaster in Scandinavia. Their washed Ethiopians are so clean, so transparent, that you can taste the altitude. Halo Beriti is the definition of 'tea-like' — and that's the highest compliment in specialty coffee. Buy: April Coffee — https://aprilcoffeeroasters.com [the-barn-kenya-gakuyuini] Name: Kenya Gakuyuini AA Producer: The Barn (Germany) Origin: Kenya, Nyeri Altitude: 1800m Variety: SL28 / SL34 · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 91/100 (The Barn internal) Tasting Notes: Blackcurrant, Blood orange, Cranberry, Brown sugar, Sparkling Price: $24/250g Mold Test: verified Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 40% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress, Batch brew Food Pairings: Blood orange tart, Dark chocolate, Goat cheese Wow Proxy: 85/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: The Barn is Berlin's most famous roaster for a reason. Their Kenyan lots are electric — SL28 from Nyeri produces an acidity so bright it's almost carbonated. This is the coffee that converts dark-roast drinkers. Buy: The Barn — https://thebarn.de [tropicalia-colombia-eugenioides] Name: Eugenioides — The Ancestor Producer: Tropicalia Coffee (Colombia) Origin: Colombia, Huila Altitude: 1700m Variety: Eugenioides · Species: Coffea eugenioides Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 93/100 (World Brewers Cup) Tasting Notes: Sugarcane, Vanilla, Chamomile, Peach, Cream Price: $95/100g Mold Test: verified Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 70% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Siphon Food Pairings: Vanilla panna cotta, Chamomile honey, White peach Wow Proxy: 97/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Awards: World Brewers Cup 2021 winning coffee Tony's Note: Eugenioides is not Arabica. It's the parent species of Arabica — the ancient ancestor that crossed with Canephora millions of years ago. It produces almost no bitterness, almost no acidity, and sweetness that borders on surreal. This is the rarest coffee on earth. Buy: Tropicalia — https://tropicaliacoffee.com [kross-panama-gesha-honey] Name: Gesha Honey — Finca Lerida Producer: Kross Coffee (Panama) Origin: Panama, Boquete — Finca Lerida Altitude: 1800m Variety: Gesha · Species: Arabica Processing: Honey · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 92/100 (Best of Panama) Tasting Notes: Mango, Honey, Jasmine, Papaya, Caramel Price: $70/150g Mold Test: verified Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 65% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Chemex Food Pairings: Mango sticky rice, Honey cake, Tropical fruit Wow Proxy: 90/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Awards: Best of Panama 2024 Honey category Tony's Note: Honey-processed Gesha is the sweet spot between washed clarity and natural fruit. Finca Lerida's altitude and Boquete's microclimate create a cup that's simultaneously delicate and explosively sweet. Buy: Kross Coffee — https://krosscoffee.com [heart-colombia-la-palma-gesha] Name: La Palma y El Tucán Gesha Producer: Heart Coffee Roasters (USA) Origin: Colombia, Cundinamarca — La Palma y El Tucán Altitude: 1700m Variety: Gesha · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 92/100 (Heart internal) Tasting Notes: Jasmine, Bergamot, Peach, Lemon verbena, Silk Price: $48/200g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 50% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress Food Pairings: Lemon tart, Jasmine tea cake, Fresh berries Wow Proxy: 88/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Heart in Portland is one of the most consistent roasters in America. Their Gesha lots from La Palma are textbook — floral, clean, with a silky body that makes you wonder if someone added cream. They didn't. Buy: Heart Coffee — https://heartroasters.com [ceremony-ethiopia-banko-gotiti] Name: Banko Gotiti Natural Producer: Ceremony Coffee Roasters (USA) Origin: Ethiopia, Gedeo, Yirgacheffe Altitude: 2000m Variety: Heirloom Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Natural · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 90/100 (Ceremony internal) Tasting Notes: Blueberry, Strawberry, Dark chocolate, Wine, Tropical Price: $22/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 38% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Chemex, Cold brew Food Pairings: Berry cobbler, Dark chocolate, Yogurt Wow Proxy: 75/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Ceremony is the quiet powerhouse of the mid-Atlantic. Their natural Ethiopians are fruit bombs that never cross into over-fermented territory. Banko Gotiti is the gateway — blueberry and strawberry so vivid you'll check the bag twice. Buy: Ceremony Coffee — https://ceremonycoffee.com [ruby-colombia-el-paraiso] Name: El Paraíso Double Anaerobic Producer: Ruby Coffee Roasters (USA) Origin: Colombia, Huila — Finca El Paraíso Altitude: 1750m Variety: Castillo · Species: Arabica Processing: Double Anaerobic · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 92/100 (Cup of Excellence) Tasting Notes: Lychee, Bubblegum, Tropical punch, Vanilla, Cream Price: $42/200g Mold Test: verified Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 55% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress Food Pairings: Lychee sorbet, Tropical fruit salad, Vanilla cake Wow Proxy: 88/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Awards: Cup of Excellence Colombia 2023 Tony's Note: El Paraíso is the most talked-about farm in Colombia right now. Their double anaerobic process creates flavors that shouldn't exist in coffee — lychee, bubblegum, tropical punch. Purists hate it. Everyone else can't stop drinking it. Buy: Ruby Coffee — https://rubycoffeeroasters.com [verve-kenya-kagumoini] Name: Kenya Kagumoini AA Producer: Verve Coffee Roasters (USA) Origin: Kenya, Nyeri Altitude: 1850m Variety: SL28 / SL34 · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 90/100 (Verve internal) Tasting Notes: Blackcurrant, Grapefruit, Hibiscus, Brown sugar, Juicy Price: $26/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 35% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress, Batch brew Food Pairings: Grapefruit tart, Dark chocolate, Goat cheese Wow Proxy: 80/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Verve's Kenyan lots are consistently among the best in the US. Kagumoini AA from Nyeri is electric — the kind of acidity that makes your tongue tingle and your brain light up. If you think you don't like bright coffee, you haven't had this. Buy: Verve Coffee — https://vervecoffee.com [equator-ethiopia-worka-sakaro] Name: Ethiopia Worka Sakaro Producer: Equator Coffees (USA) Origin: Ethiopia, Gedeo, Yirgacheffe Altitude: 2000m Variety: Heirloom Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 89/100 (Equator internal) Tasting Notes: Lemon, Jasmine, Peach, Tea-like, Clean Price: $22/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 35% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress, Drip Food Pairings: Lemon cake, Shortbread, Fresh fruit Wow Proxy: 65/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Equator is a certified B Corp that proves ethical sourcing and great coffee aren't mutually exclusive. Their washed Yirgacheffe is textbook — clean, floral, tea-like, and priced fairly. The daily driver for people who care about both cup quality and farmer welfare. Buy: Equator Coffees — https://equatorcoffees.com [little-wolf-guatemala-acatenango] Name: Guatemala Acatenango Gesha Producer: Little Wolf Coffee (USA) Origin: Guatemala, Acatenango Valley Altitude: 1900m Variety: Gesha · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 91/100 (SCA Certified) Tasting Notes: Jasmine, Peach, Bergamot, Honey, Silky Price: $35/200g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 45% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress Food Pairings: Peach tart, Honey cake, Shortbread Wow Proxy: 82/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Little Wolf is one of the most underrated roasters in America. Their Guatemalan Gesha from Acatenango is proof that Panama doesn't have a monopoly on the variety — volcanic soil at altitude creates a cup that rivals Boquete at half the price. Buy: Little Wolf — https://littlewolfcoffee.com [stumptown-hair-bender] Name: Hair Bender Blend Producer: Stumptown Coffee Roasters (USA) Origin: Blend, Latin America / Africa Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed/Natural Blend · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 86/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Dark chocolate, Citrus, Caramel, Toffee Price: $17/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: Espresso, Drip, French press Food Pairings: Chocolate croissant, Toast, Banana bread Wow Proxy: 35/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Hair Bender is the blend that launched Portland's coffee revolution. It's not the most exciting coffee in the world, but it's one of the most reliable. Chocolate, citrus, caramel — every single time. The Toyota Camry of specialty coffee, and that's a compliment. Buy: Stumptown — https://stumptowncoffee.com [blue-bottle-hayes-valley] Name: Hayes Valley Espresso Producer: Blue Bottle Coffee (USA) Origin: Blend, Africa / Latin America Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed/Natural Blend · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 85/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Chocolate, Butterscotch, Baking spice, Smooth Price: $19/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: Espresso, Moka pot, Drip Food Pairings: Chocolate cake, Biscotti, Croissant Wow Proxy: 30/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Blue Bottle was acquired by Nestlé in 2017, and purists wrote it off. But Hayes Valley Espresso remains a solid, approachable blend. It's not going to change your life, but it won't disappoint you either. The question is whether you want to support Nestlé's version of 'craft.' Buy: Blue Bottle — https://bluebottlecoffee.com [onyx-monarch] Name: Monarch Blend Producer: Onyx Coffee Lab (USA) Origin: Blend, Ethiopia / Guatemala Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed/Natural Blend · Roast: Medium-Light Cupping Score: 87/100 (Onyx internal) Tasting Notes: Chocolate, Cherry, Caramel, Nutty, Sweet Price: $18/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A Brew Methods: Drip, Pour-over, Espresso, French press Food Pairings: Chocolate chip cookies, Cherry pie, Toast Wow Proxy: 45/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Onyx's everyday blend is better than most roasters' flagship single origins. Monarch is the proof that 'blend' doesn't mean 'compromise.' Cherry, chocolate, caramel — balanced, sweet, and endlessly drinkable. Buy: Onyx Coffee Lab — https://onyxcoffeelab.com [passenger-kenya-nyeri-othaya] Name: Kenya Nyeri Othaya AB Producer: Passenger Coffee (USA) Origin: Kenya, Nyeri, Othaya Altitude: 1800m Variety: SL28 / SL34 · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 90/100 (Passenger internal) Tasting Notes: Blackcurrant, Tomato, Grapefruit, Molasses, Sparkling Price: $25/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 38% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress, Batch brew Food Pairings: Citrus salad, Dark chocolate, Aged cheese Wow Proxy: 78/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Passenger is Lancaster, PA's gift to specialty coffee. Their Kenyan lots are consistently electric — Othaya AB has that signature Nyeri acidity that makes your tongue tingle. If you think coffee can't taste like blackcurrant and tomato simultaneously, prepare to be wrong. Buy: Passenger Coffee — https://passengercoffee.com [george-howell-tarrazu-herbazu] Name: Tarrazú Herbazú Caturra Producer: George Howell Coffee (USA) Origin: Costa Rica, Tarrazú — Herbazú Altitude: 1700m Variety: Caturra · Species: Arabica Processing: Honey · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 89/100 (George Howell internal) Tasting Notes: Honey, Apricot, Milk chocolate, Caramel, Clean Price: $24/340g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 40% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Drip, Aeropress Food Pairings: Apricot tart, Honey cake, Butter cookies Wow Proxy: 65/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: George Howell literally invented the concept of 'specialty coffee' in the 1970s. His Tarrazú lots are a masterclass in what Costa Rica does best — clean, sweet, balanced. Herbazú's honey process adds an apricot sweetness that elevates it above the crowd. Buy: George Howell — https://georgehowellcoffee.com [sey-ethiopia-worka-chelbesa] Name: Ethiopia Worka Chelbesa Washed Producer: SEY Coffee (USA) Origin: Ethiopia, Gedeo, Yirgacheffe Altitude: 2100m Variety: Heirloom Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 91/100 (SEY internal) Tasting Notes: Jasmine, Lemon, Peach, Earl Grey, Silk Price: $26/250g Mold Test: verified (SEY transparency report) Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 52% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress Food Pairings: Lemon tart, Earl Grey cake, Fresh peaches Wow Proxy: 82/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: SEY is the most transparent roaster in New York. Their washed Ethiopians are the gold standard — Worka Chelbesa is so clean and floral it tastes like drinking a garden. The kind of coffee that makes you sit in silence for a moment. Buy: SEY Coffee — https://www.seycoffee.com [counter-culture-fast-forward] Name: Fast Forward Blend Producer: Counter Culture Coffee (USA) Origin: Blend, Ethiopia / Colombia Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light-Medium Cupping Score: 87/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Citrus, Floral, Caramel, Berry, Clean Price: $16/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 35% Brew Methods: Drip, Pour-over, Aeropress Food Pairings: Toast, Fruit, Granola Wow Proxy: 40/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Counter Culture's lighter blend for people who want to taste fruit and floral without going full Nordic light roast. Fast Forward is the bridge between commodity coffee and specialty — bright enough to be interesting, approachable enough for anyone. Buy: Counter Culture — https://counterculturecoffee.com [devocion-toro] Name: Toro — Fresh from Colombia Producer: Devoción (USA/Colombia) Origin: Colombia, Huila / Nariño Altitude: 1800m Variety: Caturra / Castillo · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 87/100 (Devoción internal) Tasting Notes: Dark chocolate, Caramel, Dried fruit, Nutty, Smooth Price: $20/340g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 45% Brew Methods: Drip, Espresso, French press Food Pairings: Chocolate cake, Caramel flan, Nuts Wow Proxy: 55/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Devoción's entire model is freshness — they ship green beans from Colombia to Brooklyn within 10 days of harvest. Most roasters take months. The result is a vibrancy that you can literally taste. Toro is their everyday blend, and it's fresher than anything else on the shelf. Buy: Devoción — https://dfrankfurt.com [la-cabra-kenya-kiambu] Name: Kenya Kiambu Washed Producer: La Cabra (Denmark) Origin: Kenya, Kiambu Altitude: 1750m Variety: SL28 · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 91/100 (La Cabra internal) Tasting Notes: Blackcurrant, Rhubarb, Cranberry, Raw sugar, Sparkling Price: $28/250g Mold Test: verified Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 42% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress Food Pairings: Rhubarb crumble, Dark chocolate, Goat cheese Wow Proxy: 85/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: La Cabra is the Danish roaster that coffee professionals drink when they want to be impressed. Their Kenyan lots are legendary — SL28 from Kiambu produces an acidity so complex it evolves in the cup over 20 minutes. This is coffee as a meditation practice. Buy: La Cabra — https://lacabra.dk [intelligentsia-black-cat] Name: Black Cat Classic Espresso Producer: Intelligentsia Coffee (USA) Origin: Blend, Latin America / Africa Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 86/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Milk chocolate, Caramel, Cola, Smooth Price: $18/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: Espresso, Moka pot, Drip Food Pairings: Chocolate, Pastries, Breakfast Wow Proxy: 32/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Black Cat is the espresso blend that launched a thousand coffee shops. Intelligentsia pioneered direct trade in the US, and while they've been acquired by Peet's, Black Cat remains a solid, reliable espresso. Not exciting. Not disappointing. Just good. Buy: Intelligentsia — https://intelligentsia.com [proud-mary-colombia-la-esperanza] Name: Colombia La Esperanza Thermal Shock Producer: Proud Mary (Australia) Origin: Colombia, Huila — La Esperanza Altitude: 1800m Variety: Pink Bourbon · Species: Arabica Processing: Thermal Shock · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 91/100 (Proud Mary internal) Tasting Notes: Strawberry milkshake, Vanilla, Rose, Candy, Cream Price: $38/200g Mold Test: verified Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 50% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress Food Pairings: Strawberry shortcake, Vanilla ice cream, Rose Turkish delight Wow Proxy: 90/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Awards: Melbourne International Coffee Expo 2024 Tony's Note: Thermal shock processing is the newest frontier — rapid temperature changes during fermentation create flavor profiles that are almost hallucinogenic. This Pink Bourbon tastes like a strawberry milkshake. No, really. It's the most 'is this even coffee?' coffee in the catalog. Buy: Proud Mary — https://proudmarycoffee.com [folgers-classic-roast] Name: Classic Roast Producer: Folgers (J.M. Smucker) (USA) Origin: Blend, Brazil / Vietnam / Unknown Variety: Robusta / Arabica blend · Species: Mixed Processing: Industrial · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 55/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Burnt rubber, Cardboard, Bitter, Flat, Stale Price: $8/907g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: F Brew Methods: Drip Wow Proxy: 0/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: The best part of waking up is not this in your cup. Folgers is the poster child for commodity coffee — pre-ground, months old, blended with Robusta, and roasted to oblivion to hide the defects. The fact that it's the #1 selling coffee in America is a national tragedy. Buy: Grocery stores — https://folgers.com [maxwell-house-original] Name: Original Roast Producer: Maxwell House (Kraft Heinz) (USA) Origin: Blend, Brazil / Vietnam / Unknown Variety: Robusta / Arabica blend · Species: Mixed Processing: Industrial · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 52/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Cardboard, Ash, Bitter, Hollow, Stale Price: $7/907g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: F Brew Methods: Drip Wow Proxy: 0/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Maxwell House claims it's 'good to the last drop.' We tested this claim. It is not good at any drop. Pre-ground commodity coffee that sits on shelves for months, blended to be as inoffensive as possible, which means it's offensive to anyone who's tasted real coffee. Buy: Grocery stores — https://maxwellhouse.com [keurig-green-mountain] Name: Breakfast Blend K-Cup Producer: Green Mountain (Keurig Dr Pepper) (USA) Origin: Blend, Unknown Variety: Unknown · Species: Arabica Processing: Industrial · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 58/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Watery, Cardboard, Slightly bitter, Thin, Forgettable Price: $12/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: F Brew Methods: K-Cup machine Wow Proxy: 2/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: K-Cups are the single greatest environmental and gustatory crime in coffee history. Each pod generates plastic waste, the coffee inside is stale before it's sealed, and the brewing method under-extracts everything. You're paying $40/lb for coffee that tastes like hot cardboard water. Buy: Grocery stores — https://keurig.com [nescafe-instant-classic] Name: Clasico Instant Producer: Nescafé (Nestlé) (Switzerland) Origin: Blend, Unknown Variety: Robusta / Arabica · Species: Mixed Processing: Spray-dried instant · Roast: Dark Cupping Score: 45/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Burnt, Chemical, Bitter, Hollow, Metallic Price: $9/200g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: F Brew Methods: Hot water Wow Proxy: 0/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Nescafé is the world's most consumed coffee brand. Let that sink in. Spray-dried instant coffee made from the cheapest beans on earth, processed to remove every trace of character. Nestlé has done more damage to coffee culture than any single entity in history. Buy: Grocery stores — https://nescafe.com [death-wish-dark-roast] Name: Death Wish Dark Roast Producer: Death Wish Coffee (USA) Origin: Blend, India / Unknown Variety: Robusta / Arabica · Species: Mixed Processing: Industrial · Roast: Dark Cupping Score: 62/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Charcoal, Bitter, Thick, Smoky, Caffeine Price: $20/454g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: D Brew Methods: Drip, French press Wow Proxy: 5/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Death Wish markets itself as 'the world's strongest coffee.' That's like marketing a wine as 'the most alcoholic.' They use Robusta beans (high caffeine, low flavor) and roast them to charcoal. If your goal is caffeine, take a pill. If your goal is coffee, look elsewhere. Buy: Death Wish — https://deathwishcoffee.com [starbucks-pike-place] Name: Pike Place Roast Producer: Starbucks (USA) Origin: Blend, Latin America Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 72/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Smoky, Nutty, Bitter, Flat, Burnt edges Price: $12/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: C Brew Methods: Drip Wow Proxy: 10/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Starbucks buys more specialty-grade coffee than anyone on earth and then roasts it all into the same dark, smoky, bitter profile. Pike Place is their 'medium' roast, which in any other context would be called 'dark.' It's not terrible. It's just a waste of good beans. Buy: Starbucks — https://starbucks.com [dunkin-original-blend] Name: Original Blend Producer: Dunkin' (USA) Origin: Blend, Latin America Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 70/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Smooth, Mild, Nutty, Inoffensive, Watery Price: $10/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: D Brew Methods: Drip Wow Proxy: 5/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Dunkin' is America's coffee. Not because it's good, but because it's everywhere and it's cheap. The Original Blend is engineered to be inoffensive — smooth, mild, forgettable. It's the beige paint of coffee. Nobody hates it. Nobody remembers it. Buy: Dunkin' — https://dunkinathome.com [lavazza-super-crema] Name: Super Crema Espresso Producer: Lavazza (Italy) Origin: Blend, Brazil / India / Colombia / Indonesia Variety: Arabica / Robusta · Species: Mixed Processing: Industrial · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 68/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Hazelnut, Cream, Mild bitter, Flat, Woody Price: $18/1000g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: D Brew Methods: Espresso, Moka pot Wow Proxy: 8/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Lavazza is Italy's largest coffee company, and Super Crema is their most popular blend. It produces a thick crema (hence the name) but the flavor underneath is unremarkable — hazelnut, cream, and a woody bitterness from the Robusta. Italy's coffee culture is stuck in the 1950s, and Lavazza is the reason. Buy: Lavazza — https://lavazza.com [bulletproof-original] Name: The Original Medium Roast Producer: Bulletproof (USA) Origin: Blend, Guatemala / Colombia Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 78/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Chocolate, Nutty, Clean, Mild, Smooth Price: $19/340g Mold Test: claims (Bulletproof claims 'clean coffee' process) Transparency Grade: C Brew Methods: Drip, French press, Pour-over Wow Proxy: 15/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Bulletproof built an empire on mycotoxin fear — claiming their 'clean coffee' process removes mold that other coffees contain. The science is dubious at best. The coffee itself is... fine. A perfectly average medium roast sold at a premium because of marketing, not quality. Buy: Bulletproof — https://bulletproof.com [peets-major-dickasons] Name: Major Dickason's Blend Producer: Peet's Coffee (USA) Origin: Blend, Unknown Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Dark Cupping Score: 75/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Smoky, Dark chocolate, Earthy, Heavy, Bitter Price: $15/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: C Brew Methods: Drip, French press Wow Proxy: 12/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Peet's is the godfather of dark roast in America — Alfred Peet literally taught the Starbucks founders. Major Dickason's is their flagship, and it's a monument to the philosophy that darker = better. It's not. But if you like your coffee to taste like a campfire, this is your jam. Buy: Peet's — https://peets.com [eight-oclock-original] Name: The Original Producer: Eight O'Clock Coffee (Tata) (USA) Origin: Blend, Unknown Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Industrial · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 60/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Flat, Mild, Slightly bitter, Cardboard, Forgettable Price: $7/680g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: F Brew Methods: Drip Wow Proxy: 2/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Eight O'Clock is the coffee your grandparents drank because there was nothing else. Now owned by Tata Global Beverages, it's mass-produced commodity coffee with zero transparency about sourcing. At $5/lb, you get exactly what you pay for: nothing memorable. Buy: Grocery stores — https://eightoclock.com [cafe-bustelo-espresso] Name: Espresso Style Producer: Café Bustelo (J.M. Smucker) (USA) Origin: Blend, Unknown Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica / Robusta Processing: Industrial · Roast: Dark Cupping Score: 58/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Burnt, Bitter, Thick, Smoky, Harsh Price: $6/283g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: F Brew Methods: Moka pot, Espresso Wow Proxy: 3/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Café Bustelo has a cult following, and we respect the cultural significance. But let's be honest about what's in the can: over-roasted commodity beans, likely including Robusta, ground to dust. It makes a strong, bitter cup that's best drowned in sugar and milk. The espresso label is generous. Buy: Grocery stores — https://cafebustelo.com [onyx-geometry] Name: Geometry Blend Producer: Onyx Coffee Lab (USA) Origin: Blend, Ethiopia / Colombia Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed/Natural Blend · Roast: Light-Medium Cupping Score: 88/100 (Onyx internal) Tasting Notes: Berry, Citrus, Chocolate, Floral, Balanced Price: $20/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A Brew Methods: Drip, Pour-over, Aeropress Food Pairings: Fruit tart, Chocolate, Pastries Wow Proxy: 50/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Geometry is Onyx's 'I want something interesting but not weird' blend. Berry, citrus, chocolate — it hits every note without going overboard on any of them. The blend that converts Starbucks drinkers to specialty without scaring them. Buy: Onyx Coffee Lab — https://onyxcoffeelab.com [brandywine-ethiopia-natural-guji] Name: Ethiopia Guji Natural Producer: Brandywine Coffee Roasters (USA) Origin: Ethiopia, Guji, Oromia Altitude: 2100m Variety: Heirloom Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Natural · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 89/100 (Brandywine internal) Tasting Notes: Blueberry, Strawberry, Tropical, Wine, Floral Price: $22/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 38% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Chemex, Cold brew Food Pairings: Berry cobbler, Dark chocolate, Yogurt Wow Proxy: 70/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Brandywine is Delaware's best-kept secret. Their natural Ethiopians are fruit bombs — Guji heirlooms processed naturally produce blueberry and strawberry notes so vivid they border on candy. At $22 for 10oz, it's one of the best values in specialty coffee. Buy: Brandywine — https://brandywinecoffeeroasters.com [tim-wendelboe-aeropress-blend] Name: Aeropress Blend Producer: Tim Wendelboe (Norway) Origin: Blend, Colombia / Ethiopia Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 88/100 (Tim Wendelboe internal) Tasting Notes: Caramel, Citrus, Floral, Clean, Balanced Price: $18/250g Mold Test: verified Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 55% Brew Methods: Aeropress, Pour-over Food Pairings: Toast, Fruit, Light pastries Wow Proxy: 55/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Tim Wendelboe won the World Barista Championship in 2004 and has been the conscience of specialty coffee ever since. His Aeropress Blend is designed for the brewer he helped popularize — clean, sweet, balanced, and a masterclass in what 'light roast' should taste like. Buy: Tim Wendelboe — https://timwendelboe.no [square-mile-red-brick] Name: Red Brick Seasonal Espresso Producer: Square Mile Coffee Roasters (UK) Origin: Blend, Seasonal rotation Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Medium-Light Cupping Score: 87/100 (Square Mile internal) Tasting Notes: Chocolate, Caramel, Fruit, Sweet, Balanced Price: $18/350g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 40% Brew Methods: Espresso, Aeropress, Moka pot Food Pairings: Chocolate brownie, Caramel desserts, Pastries Wow Proxy: 50/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Square Mile was founded by James Hoffmann (World Barista Champion 2007) and Anette Moldvaer. Red Brick is their flagship espresso — it changes seasonally but always delivers chocolate, caramel, and sweetness. The benchmark for what modern espresso should taste like. Buy: Square Mile — https://shop.squaremilecoffee.com [catalyst-colombia-washed] Name: Colombia Washed Caturra Producer: Catalyst Coffee (USA) Origin: Colombia, Huila Altitude: 1700m Variety: Caturra · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light-Medium Cupping Score: 86/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Caramel, Chocolate, Citrus, Clean, Sweet Price: $17/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: Drip, Pour-over, Espresso Food Pairings: Toast, Chocolate, Pastries Wow Proxy: 35/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: A solid, reliable Colombian washed coffee from a small-batch roaster. Nothing flashy, nothing wrong. The kind of coffee that makes you realize most of what you've been drinking is either over-roasted or under-sourced. Buy: Catalyst — https://catalystcoffee.co [tandem-ethiopia-yirgacheffe-washed] Name: Ethiopia Yirgacheffe Washed Producer: Tandem Coffee Roasters (USA) Origin: Ethiopia, Yirgacheffe, Gedeo Altitude: 1950m Variety: Heirloom Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 89/100 (Tandem internal) Tasting Notes: Lemon, Jasmine, Peach, Tea-like, Delicate Price: $20/340g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 35% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress, Batch brew Food Pairings: Lemon tart, Shortbread, Fresh fruit Wow Proxy: 65/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Tandem is Portland, Maine's finest. Their washed Yirgacheffe is a textbook example of why Ethiopian coffee is the benchmark — lemon, jasmine, peach, and a tea-like delicacy that makes you slow down and pay attention. Buy: Tandem Coffee — https://tandemcoffee.com [madcap-kenya-gichatha] Name: Kenya Gichatha-ini AA Producer: Madcap Coffee (USA) Origin: Kenya, Nyeri Altitude: 1800m Variety: SL28 / SL34 · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 90/100 (Madcap internal) Tasting Notes: Blackcurrant, Grapefruit, Tomato, Brown sugar, Juicy Price: $25/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 38% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress, Batch brew Food Pairings: Citrus tart, Dark chocolate, Aged cheese Wow Proxy: 78/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Madcap in Grand Rapids, Michigan is proof that great coffee doesn't require a coastal zip code. Their Kenyan lots are consistently among the best in America — Gichatha-ini AA has that signature Nyeri brightness that makes your palate wake up and pay attention. Buy: Madcap Coffee — https://madcapcoffee.com [spyhouse-ethiopia-worka] Name: Ethiopia Worka Natural Producer: Spyhouse Coffee (USA) Origin: Ethiopia, Gedeo, Yirgacheffe Altitude: 2000m Variety: Heirloom Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Natural · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 88/100 (Spyhouse internal) Tasting Notes: Blueberry, Strawberry, Wine, Chocolate, Sweet Price: $19/340g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: Pour-over, Chemex, Cold brew Food Pairings: Berry tart, Yogurt, Dark chocolate Wow Proxy: 60/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Spyhouse is Minneapolis's flagship specialty roaster. Their natural Ethiopians are crowd-pleasers — blueberry and strawberry notes that are vivid without being over-fermented. At $19 for 12oz, it's one of the best values in the Midwest. Buy: Spyhouse — https://spyhousecoffee.com [barista-parlor-golden-sound] Name: Golden Sound Blend Producer: Barista Parlor (USA) Origin: Blend, Ethiopia / Colombia Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed/Natural Blend · Roast: Medium-Light Cupping Score: 87/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Chocolate, Berry, Caramel, Sweet, Balanced Price: $18/340g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: Drip, Pour-over, Espresso Food Pairings: Pastries, Chocolate, Toast Wow Proxy: 42/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Nashville's Barista Parlor brings Southern hospitality to specialty coffee. Golden Sound is their everyday blend — approachable, sweet, balanced. Not going to blow your mind, but it'll make your morning better. The kind of coffee that makes you a regular. Buy: Barista Parlor — https://baristaparlor.com [methodical-colombia-el-paraiso-lactic] Name: Colombia El Paraíso Lactic Producer: Methodical Coffee (USA) Origin: Colombia, Huila — Finca El Paraíso Altitude: 1750m Variety: Castillo · Species: Arabica Processing: Lactic Anaerobic · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 91/100 (Cup of Excellence) Tasting Notes: Mango, Yogurt, Tropical, Vanilla, Cream Price: $35/200g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 50% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress Food Pairings: Mango lassi, Vanilla cake, Tropical fruit Wow Proxy: 85/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Awards: Cup of Excellence Colombia 2024 Tony's Note: Methodical in Greenville, SC is quietly becoming one of the best roasters in the Southeast. Their El Paraíso lactic lot is a tropical explosion — mango, yogurt, vanilla. The lactic fermentation adds a creamy quality that makes it taste like a dessert. Buy: Methodical — https://methodicalcoffee.com [black-white-the-classic] Name: The Classic Espresso Producer: Black & White Coffee (USA) Origin: Blend, Colombia / Ethiopia Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed/Natural Blend · Roast: Medium-Light Cupping Score: 87/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Chocolate, Caramel, Berry, Sweet, Creamy Price: $18/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: Espresso, Moka pot, Aeropress Food Pairings: Chocolate cake, Caramel desserts, Pastries Wow Proxy: 42/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Black & White's espresso blend is the workhorse that funds their exotic single origins. Chocolate, caramel, berry — it's designed to be the best espresso you can pull at home without a $3,000 grinder. And it delivers. Buy: Black & White — https://www.blackwhiteroasters.com [james-coffee-ethiopia-sidamo] Name: Ethiopia Sidamo Natural Producer: James Coffee Co. (USA) Origin: Ethiopia, Sidamo Altitude: 1900m Variety: Heirloom Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Natural · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 88/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Blueberry, Wine, Chocolate, Floral, Sweet Price: $20/340g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: Pour-over, Chemex, Cold brew Food Pairings: Berry tart, Dark chocolate, Yogurt Wow Proxy: 58/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: San Diego's James Coffee brings California sunshine to Ethiopian naturals. Their Sidamo is a crowd-pleaser — blueberry and wine notes that are vivid but not overwhelming. The kind of coffee that makes you want to sit on a patio and do nothing. Buy: James Coffee — https://jamescoffeeco.com [huckleberry-guatemala-finca-el-injerto] Name: Guatemala Finca El Injerto Bourbon Producer: Huckleberry Roasters (USA) Origin: Guatemala, Huehuetenango — Finca El Injerto Altitude: 1800m Variety: Bourbon · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light-Medium Cupping Score: 89/100 (Cup of Excellence) Tasting Notes: Dark chocolate, Plum, Caramel, Almond, Creamy Price: $22/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 40% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Espresso, Drip Food Pairings: Dark chocolate, Plum cake, Almonds Wow Proxy: 68/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Awards: Cup of Excellence Guatemala 2023 Tony's Note: Huckleberry in Denver is the Rocky Mountain's best roaster. El Injerto is one of Guatemala's most decorated farms — Cup of Excellence winner multiple times. The Bourbon variety at altitude produces a chocolatey, plummy cup that's equally at home as espresso or pour-over. Buy: Huckleberry — https://huckleberryroasters.com [switchback-rwanda-kilimbi] Name: Rwanda Kilimbi Washed Producer: Switchback Coffee Roasters (USA) Origin: Rwanda, Nyamasheke Altitude: 1800m Variety: Red Bourbon · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 88/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Red grape, Plum, Floral, Honey, Tea-like Price: $19/340g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 38% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress, Batch brew Food Pairings: Grape tart, Light pastries, Honey cake Wow Proxy: 55/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Switchback in Colorado Springs is proof that great coffee exists outside the big cities. Their Rwandan lots are elegant — Kilimbi's Red Bourbon produces a tea-like cup with grape and plum notes that's perfect for anyone who finds Kenyan coffee too aggressive. Buy: Switchback — https://switchbackroasters.com [ghost-town-colombia-pink-bourbon-natural] Name: Colombia Pink Bourbon Natural Producer: Ghost Town Coffee Roasters (USA) Origin: Colombia, Huila Altitude: 1850m Variety: Pink Bourbon · Species: Arabica Processing: Natural · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 90/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Strawberry, Rose, Vanilla, Tropical, Candy Price: $25/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 42% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress Food Pairings: Strawberry shortcake, Rose Turkish delight, Vanilla cake Wow Proxy: 75/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Ghost Town in Bozeman, Montana roasts some of the most exciting coffees in the mountain west. Their natural Pink Bourbon is a candy bomb — strawberry, rose, vanilla. The natural process amplifies Pink Bourbon's inherent sweetness into something almost surreal. Buy: Ghost Town — https://ghosttowncoffee.com [dragonfly-yemen-haraz] Name: Yemen Haraz Natural Producer: Dragonfly Coffee Roasters (USA) Origin: Yemen, Haraz Mountains Altitude: 2200m Variety: Yemeni Heirloom · Species: Arabica Processing: Natural · Roast: Light-Medium Cupping Score: 91/100 (SCA Certified) Tasting Notes: Dried fruit, Spice, Dark chocolate, Wine, Tobacco, Leather Price: $65/200g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: B · Farmer Share: 55% Brew Methods: Pour-over, French press, Siphon Food Pairings: Dates, Dark chocolate, Aged cheese, Dried figs Wow Proxy: 88/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Yemen is where coffee began — literally. The Haraz Mountains have been growing coffee for 500+ years, and the heirloom varieties produce a cup unlike anything else on earth. Dried fruit, spice, wine, tobacco — it's complex, ancient, and irreplaceable. This is coffee archaeology. Buy: Dragonfly Coffee — https://dragonflycoffeeroasters.com [sey-colombia-gesha-el-paraiso] Name: El Paraíso Gesha Washed Producer: SEY Coffee (USA) Origin: Colombia, Huila — Finca El Paraíso Altitude: 1750m Variety: Gesha · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 93/100 (SEY internal) Tasting Notes: Jasmine, Bergamot, Peach, Honey, Silk Price: $55/200g Mold Test: verified (SEY transparency report) Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 55% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Siphon Food Pairings: Jasmine tea cake, Peach tart, Honey Wow Proxy: 92/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Awards: Cup of Excellence Colombia 2024 Tony's Note: When SEY sources Gesha from El Paraíso, the result is one of the most refined coffees available in the US. Washed processing strips away the experimental funk and reveals pure varietal character — jasmine, bergamot, peach. This is what Gesha was born to taste like. Buy: SEY Coffee — https://www.seycoffee.com [george-howell-panama-gesha-esmeralda] Name: Panama Gesha — Esmeralda Special Producer: George Howell Coffee (USA) Origin: Panama, Boquete, Chiriquí — Hacienda La Esmeralda Altitude: 1800m Variety: Gesha · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 94/100 (George Howell internal) Tasting Notes: Jasmine, Bergamot, Peach, Honey, Lemongrass Price: $95/200g Mold Test: verified Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 70% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Siphon Food Pairings: Jasmine tea cake, Fresh peaches, Honey comb Wow Proxy: 96/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Awards: Best of Panama multiple years Tony's Note: George Howell roasting Esmeralda Gesha is the GOAT roasting the GOAT coffee. The man who coined 'specialty coffee' applying his 50 years of expertise to the most celebrated lot on earth. The result is transcendent — floral, sweet, complex beyond description. Buy: George Howell — https://georgehowellcoffee.com [proud-mary-ethiopia-halo-hartume] Name: Ethiopia Halo Hartume Anaerobic Producer: Proud Mary (Australia) Origin: Ethiopia, Gedeo, Yirgacheffe Altitude: 2050m Variety: Heirloom Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Anaerobic Natural · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 91/100 (Proud Mary internal) Tasting Notes: Strawberry, Mango, Cream, Tropical, Candy Price: $35/200g Mold Test: verified Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 48% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress Food Pairings: Strawberry shortcake, Mango sorbet, Vanilla ice cream Wow Proxy: 85/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Proud Mary's anaerobic Ethiopians are the most fun coffees in the catalog. Halo Hartume is a tropical candy bomb — strawberry, mango, cream. The anaerobic process amplifies the fruit to 11. Not for purists. Perfect for everyone else. Buy: Proud Mary — https://proudmarycoffee.com [trade-coffee-subscription-mystery] Name: Mystery Subscription Box Producer: Trade Coffee (aggregator) (USA) Origin: Varies, Varies Variety: Varies · Species: Arabica Processing: Varies · Roast: Varies Cupping Score: 82/100 (Aggregate estimate) Tasting Notes: Varies by roaster, Generally solid, Occasionally excellent Price: $15/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: C Brew Methods: Drip, Pour-over Wow Proxy: 25/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Trade is a subscription aggregator that matches you with roasters based on a quiz. The concept is solid — they partner with 400+ roasters. But the algorithm tends toward safe, middle-of-the-road picks. Good for discovery, not for depth. Buy: Trade Coffee — https://trade.coffee [charbucks-italian-roast] Name: Italian Roast Producer: Starbucks (USA) Origin: Blend, Unknown Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Extra Dark Cupping Score: 65/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Charcoal, Smoke, Bitter, Ash, Burnt Price: $13/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: C Brew Methods: Drip Wow Proxy: 3/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Starbucks Italian Roast is what happens when you take perfectly good specialty-grade beans and roast them until every trace of origin character is incinerated. It's not Italian — no Italian would drink this. It's just burnt. The coffee equivalent of a well-done wagyu steak. Buy: Starbucks — https://starbucks.com [mcdonalds-premium-roast] Name: Premium Roast Producer: McDonald's (McCafé) (USA) Origin: Blend, Latin America Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 68/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Mild, Smooth, Slightly nutty, Inoffensive, Watery Price: $9/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: D Brew Methods: Drip Wow Proxy: 8/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Here's the dirty secret: McDonald's coffee is actually better than Starbucks drip. They use 100% Arabica, roast it medium, and serve it fresh. It's not good by specialty standards, but it's honest — and at $1 for a large, it's the best value in fast food coffee. Buy: McDonald's — https://mcdonalds.com [klatch-belle-espresso] Name: Belle Espresso Producer: Klatch Coffee (USA) Origin: Blend, Ethiopia / Colombia / Guatemala Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed/Natural Blend · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 88/100 (Klatch internal) Tasting Notes: Chocolate, Cherry, Caramel, Sweet, Creamy Price: $19/340g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A Brew Methods: Espresso, Moka pot, Aeropress Food Pairings: Chocolate cake, Cherry pie, Biscotti Wow Proxy: 52/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Awards: World Barista Championship supply Tony's Note: Klatch won the World Barista Championship with their coffee. Belle Espresso is their flagship blend — chocolate, cherry, caramel. It's designed for espresso but works beautifully as a pour-over. One of the best values in specialty espresso. Buy: Klatch Coffee — https://klatchcoffee.com [vibrant-ethiopia-guji-natural] Name: Ethiopia Guji Uraga Natural Producer: Vibrant Coffee Roasters (USA) Origin: Ethiopia, Guji, Uraga Altitude: 2100m Variety: Heirloom Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Natural · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 89/100 (Vibrant internal) Tasting Notes: Blueberry, Grape, Chocolate, Wine, Floral Price: $21/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 38% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Chemex, Cold brew Food Pairings: Berry cobbler, Dark chocolate, Yogurt Wow Proxy: 68/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Vibrant in Philadelphia is one of the most exciting young roasters in the US. Their Guji naturals are fruit bombs — blueberry and grape so vivid they border on wine. At $21 for 10oz, it's a steal for this quality level. Buy: Vibrant Coffee — https://vibrantcoffeeroasters.com [coava-kilenso-mokonissa] Name: Kilenso Mokonissa Producer: Coava Coffee Roasters (USA) Origin: Ethiopia, Guji, Oromia Altitude: 2100m Variety: Heirloom Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 90/100 (Coava internal) Tasting Notes: Lemon, Peach, Jasmine, Honey, Tea-like Price: $22/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 40% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress, Batch brew Food Pairings: Lemon cake, Shortbread, Fresh fruit Wow Proxy: 72/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Coava in Portland is the roaster that other roasters respect. Their washed Ethiopians are textbook — clean, floral, tea-like. Kilenso Mokonissa is the kind of coffee that makes you understand why people spend $22 on 10oz of beans. Buy: Coava Coffee — https://coavacoffee.com [olympia-ethiopia-ardi] Name: Ardi — Ethiopia Natural Producer: Olympia Coffee Roasting (USA) Origin: Ethiopia, Guji, Oromia Altitude: 2000m Variety: Heirloom Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Natural · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 89/100 (Olympia internal) Tasting Notes: Blueberry, Strawberry, Chocolate, Floral, Sweet Price: $20/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 42% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Chemex, Cold brew Food Pairings: Berry tart, Dark chocolate, Yogurt Wow Proxy: 65/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Olympia in Olympia, WA is a B Corp that proves you can source ethically and roast brilliantly. Ardi is their flagship natural Ethiopian — blueberry and strawberry notes that are vivid without being over-fermented. A crowd-pleaser that also happens to be ethically sourced. Buy: Olympia Coffee — https://olympiacoffee.com [ritual-guatemala-finca-rosma] Name: Guatemala Finca Rosma Bourbon Producer: Ritual Coffee Roasters (USA) Origin: Guatemala, Huehuetenango — Finca Rosma Altitude: 1800m Variety: Bourbon · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light-Medium Cupping Score: 88/100 (Ritual internal) Tasting Notes: Chocolate, Plum, Caramel, Almond, Clean Price: $22/340g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 38% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Drip, Espresso Food Pairings: Dark chocolate, Plum cake, Almonds Wow Proxy: 55/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Ritual is San Francisco's OG specialty roaster. Their Guatemalan Bourbon from Finca Rosma is a classic — chocolate, plum, caramel. Not flashy, not boring. Just really, really good coffee from a roaster that's been doing this longer than most. Buy: Ritual Coffee — https://ritualroasters.com [sightglass-banner-dark] Name: Banner Dark Blend Producer: Sightglass Coffee (USA) Origin: Blend, Latin America / Africa Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Dark Cupping Score: 84/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Dark chocolate, Smoky, Caramel, Nutty, Bold Price: $18/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: French press, Drip, Espresso Food Pairings: Chocolate brownie, S'mores, Steak Wow Proxy: 30/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Sightglass proves that dark roast doesn't have to mean burnt. Banner Dark is roasted with care — you get chocolate and caramel instead of charcoal. The dark roast for people who want depth without destruction. Buy: Sightglass — https://sightglasscoffee.com [eiland-colombia-pink-bourbon-honey] Name: Colombia Pink Bourbon Honey Producer: Eiland Coffee Roasters (USA) Origin: Colombia, Huila Altitude: 1850m Variety: Pink Bourbon · Species: Arabica Processing: Honey · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 90/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Peach, Rose, Honey, Vanilla, Silky Price: $24/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 42% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress Food Pairings: Peach tart, Rose Turkish delight, Honey cake Wow Proxy: 72/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Eiland in Texas is quietly producing some of the best light roasts in the South. Their honey-processed Pink Bourbon is a stunner — peach, rose, honey, with a silky body that makes it feel like drinking liquid velvet. Buy: Eiland Coffee — https://eilandcoffee.com [parlor-ethiopia-worka-natural] Name: Ethiopia Worka Natural Producer: Parlor Coffee (USA) Origin: Ethiopia, Gedeo, Yirgacheffe Altitude: 2000m Variety: Heirloom Ethiopian · Species: Arabica Processing: Natural · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 89/100 (Parlor internal) Tasting Notes: Blueberry, Strawberry, Wine, Floral, Sweet Price: $24/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 38% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Chemex, Cold brew Food Pairings: Berry tart, Dark chocolate, Yogurt Wow Proxy: 65/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Parlor in Brooklyn is the roaster for people who think they've outgrown Brooklyn roasters. Their natural Ethiopians are precise — fruit-forward without being sloppy. Worka Natural is the kind of coffee that makes you cancel your next meeting. Buy: Parlor Coffee — https://parlorcoffee.com [black-rifle-beyond-black] Name: Beyond Black — Dark Roast Producer: Black Rifle Coffee Company (USA) Origin: Blend, Colombia / Brazil Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Extra Dark Cupping Score: 70/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Charcoal, Smoke, Bitter, Burnt, Heavy Price: $16/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: D Brew Methods: Drip, French press Wow Proxy: 5/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Black Rifle is a culture brand that happens to sell coffee. Their 'Beyond Black' is roasted so dark it's essentially charcoal. The marketing is about identity, not quality. If you want to support veterans, there are better ways. If you want good coffee, look literally anywhere else. Buy: Black Rifle — https://blackriflecoffee.com [bones-coffee-sinn-o-bun] Name: S'inn-O-Bun Flavored Producer: Bones Coffee Company (USA) Origin: Blend, Unknown Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Industrial + Flavoring · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 50/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Artificial cinnamon, Chemical sweetness, Vanilla extract, Stale base Price: $16/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: F Brew Methods: Drip Wow Proxy: 2/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Flavored coffee is the industry's dirty secret — it exists to mask the taste of low-quality beans. Bones Coffee uses artificial flavorings to make commodity coffee taste like dessert. If you want cinnamon roll flavor, eat a cinnamon roll. Don't ruin coffee. Buy: Bones Coffee — https://bonescoffee.com [community-coffee-signature] Name: Signature Blend Producer: Community Coffee (USA) Origin: Blend, Latin America Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 72/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Mild, Nutty, Smooth, Inoffensive, Flat Price: $8/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: D Brew Methods: Drip Wow Proxy: 8/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Community Coffee is Louisiana's largest coffee brand and a regional institution. The Signature Blend is perfectly adequate — mild, smooth, forgettable. It's the coffee equivalent of a participation trophy. Not bad enough to complain about, not good enough to remember. Buy: Community Coffee — https://communitycoffee.com [tim-hortons-original] Name: Original Blend Producer: Tim Hortons (Restaurant Brands International) (Canada) Origin: Blend, Latin America Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 68/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Mild, Smooth, Slightly sweet, Watery, Forgettable Price: $10/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: D Brew Methods: Drip Wow Proxy: 5/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Tim Hortons is Canada's national coffee chain, and Canadians defend it with patriotic fervor. The coffee itself is unremarkable — mild, smooth, designed to be consumed in large quantities. It's the coffee you drink because it's there, not because it's good. Buy: Tim Hortons — https://timhortons.com [wrecking-ball-el-salvador-pacamara] Name: El Salvador Pacamara Washed Producer: Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters (USA) Origin: El Salvador, Santa Ana Altitude: 1600m Variety: Pacamara · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 89/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Plum, Dark chocolate, Citrus, Creamy, Complex Price: $24/284g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 40% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Espresso, Aeropress Food Pairings: Plum cake, Dark chocolate, Aged cheese Wow Proxy: 62/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Wrecking Ball in San Francisco sources some of the best Pacamaras in the country. El Salvador's giant-bean variety produces a cup with unusual depth — plum, chocolate, citrus, and a creamy body that makes it work as both espresso and filter. Buy: Wrecking Ball — https://wreckingballcoffee.com [luna-panama-gesha-natural] Name: Panama Gesha Natural — Finca Sophia Producer: Luna Coffee (USA) Origin: Panama, Volcán, Chiriquí — Finca Sophia Altitude: 1900m Variety: Gesha · Species: Arabica Processing: Natural · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 93/100 (Best of Panama) Tasting Notes: Tropical fruit, Jasmine, Mango, Honey, Wine Price: $80/150g Mold Test: verified Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 65% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Siphon Food Pairings: Tropical fruit, Jasmine tea cake, Honey Wow Proxy: 94/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Awards: Best of Panama 2024 Natural Gesha Tony's Note: Finca Sophia is the highest-altitude coffee farm in Panama. Their natural Gesha is a tropical explosion — mango, jasmine, honey, wine. Luna roasts it with a light touch that lets every note sing. This is the coffee that makes you understand why people pay $80 for 150g. Buy: Luna Coffee — https://lunacoffeeroasters.com [swift-cup-instant-colombia] Name: Colombia Instant Specialty Producer: Swift Cup Coffee (USA) Origin: Colombia, Huila Variety: Caturra · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light-Medium Cupping Score: 84/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Chocolate, Caramel, Citrus, Clean, Mild Price: $15/42g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: Hot water Food Pairings: Travel snacks, Camping food, Anything on the go Wow Proxy: 35/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Swift Cup proves that instant coffee doesn't have to be terrible. They freeze-dry specialty-grade beans, and the result is shockingly good — chocolate, caramel, citrus. It's not as good as fresh pour-over, but it's 10x better than Nescafé. The future of travel coffee. Buy: Swift Cup — https://swiftcupcoffee.com [intelligentsia-el-gallo] Name: El Gallo — Guatemala Producer: Intelligentsia Coffee (USA) Origin: Guatemala, Huehuetenango Altitude: 1800m Variety: Bourbon / Caturra · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light-Medium Cupping Score: 88/100 (Intelligentsia internal) Tasting Notes: Chocolate, Orange, Caramel, Almond, Clean Price: $22/340g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: B · Farmer Share: 35% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Drip, Espresso Food Pairings: Orange cake, Dark chocolate, Almonds Wow Proxy: 50/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Intelligentsia's single origins are better than their blends. El Gallo from Huehuetenango is a classic Guatemalan — chocolate, orange, caramel. Not revolutionary, but reliably excellent. The kind of coffee that reminds you why you started drinking specialty. Buy: Intelligentsia — https://intelligentsia.com [joe-coffee-daily-blend] Name: The Daily Blend Producer: Joe Coffee Company (USA) Origin: Blend, Colombia / Ethiopia Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 85/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Chocolate, Caramel, Nutty, Smooth, Balanced Price: $17/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: Drip, Pour-over, Espresso Food Pairings: Toast, Pastries, Breakfast Wow Proxy: 32/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Joe Coffee is New York's neighborhood roaster. The Daily Blend is exactly what it sounds like — chocolate, caramel, smooth. Not trying to be anything it's not. The coffee you drink every morning without thinking about it, which is actually the highest compliment. Buy: Joe Coffee — https://joecoffeecompany.com [cafe-grumpy-heartbreaker] Name: Heartbreaker Espresso Producer: Café Grumpy (USA) Origin: Blend, Latin America / Africa Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed/Natural Blend · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 86/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Chocolate, Cherry, Caramel, Sweet, Rich Price: $19/340g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: Espresso, Moka pot, Aeropress Food Pairings: Chocolate cake, Cherry pie, Biscotti Wow Proxy: 42/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Café Grumpy got famous from a cameo on Girls, but the coffee was good before HBO showed up. Heartbreaker is their espresso blend — chocolate, cherry, caramel. It's designed to be the best espresso in your neighborhood, and in most neighborhoods, it is. Buy: Café Grumpy — https://cafegrumpy.com [kicking-horse-kick-ass] Name: Kick Ass Dark Roast Producer: Kicking Horse Coffee (Lavazza) (Canada) Origin: Blend, Indonesia / Central America / Africa Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Dark Cupping Score: 76/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Smoky, Chocolate, Earthy, Bold, Bitter Price: $13/284g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: C Brew Methods: Drip, French press Wow Proxy: 10/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Kicking Horse was a beloved Canadian organic roaster until Lavazza bought them. Kick Ass is their flagship dark roast — smoky, bold, and marketed with aggressive branding. The coffee is fine for dark roast fans, but 'organic' and 'fair trade' labels don't make up for over-roasting. Buy: Kicking Horse — https://kickinghorsecoffee.com [jot-ultra-coffee-concentrate] Name: Ultra Coffee Concentrate Producer: Jot (USA) Origin: Blend, Unknown Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Concentrated extraction · Roast: Dark Cupping Score: 74/100 (Industry estimate) Tasting Notes: Intense, Chocolate, Bitter, Concentrated, Thick Price: $24/200g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: D Brew Methods: Add to milk/water Wow Proxy: 12/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Jot is a coffee concentrate — one tablespoon in milk or water makes a cup. The concept is convenient, but the execution prioritizes strength over flavor. It's dark, intense, and one-dimensional. Good for people who want caffeine delivery, not for people who want to taste coffee. Buy: Jot — https://jot.co [counter-culture-apollo] Name: Apollo Blend Producer: Counter Culture Coffee (USA) Origin: Blend, Ethiopia / Colombia Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed/Natural Blend · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 87/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Chocolate, Caramel, Berry, Sweet, Smooth Price: $15/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 35% Brew Methods: Drip, Espresso, French press Food Pairings: Chocolate, Pastries, Breakfast Wow Proxy: 40/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Apollo is Counter Culture's crowd-pleaser — the blend designed to make everyone happy. Chocolate, caramel, berry, smooth. It's the coffee you serve at a dinner party when you don't know everyone's preferences. And at $15 for 12oz from a transparently-sourced roaster, it's a genuine bargain. Buy: Counter Culture — https://counterculturecoffee.com [cuvee-black-and-blue] Name: Black & Blue Espresso Producer: Cuvée Coffee (USA) Origin: Blend, Ethiopia / Brazil Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed/Natural Blend · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 87/100 (Internal) Tasting Notes: Blueberry, Chocolate, Caramel, Sweet, Rich Price: $18/340g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: Espresso, Moka pot, Drip Food Pairings: Blueberry muffin, Dark chocolate, Pastries Wow Proxy: 48/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Cuvée in Austin pioneered nitro cold brew and continues to push boundaries. Black & Blue is their espresso blend — blueberry from the Ethiopian component, chocolate from the Brazilian. It's designed for espresso but makes a killer cold brew too. Buy: Cuvée Coffee — https://cuveecoffee.com [verve-streetlevel] Name: Streetlevel Espresso Producer: Verve Coffee Roasters (USA) Origin: Blend, Latin America / Africa Variety: Mixed · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Medium Cupping Score: 87/100 (Verve internal) Tasting Notes: Chocolate, Caramel, Toffee, Sweet, Balanced Price: $19/340g Mold Test: claims Transparency Grade: A Brew Methods: Espresso, Moka pot, Aeropress Food Pairings: Chocolate, Toffee, Pastries Wow Proxy: 45/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Verve's espresso blend is Santa Cruz sunshine in a cup. Streetlevel is chocolate, caramel, toffee — designed to be the best espresso on your block. It's not trying to be exotic. It's trying to be perfect, and it comes close. Buy: Verve Coffee — https://vervecoffee.com [pulse-n-pause-lemongrass-gesha] Name: Finca La Dinastia Lemongrass Gesha Producer: Pulse N Pause Coffee (USA) Origin: Colombia, Wilder Lazo, Finca La Dinastia — Finca La Dinastia Altitude: 1515m Variety: Gesha · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed Lemongrass Fermentation · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 91/100 (Estimated from variety/process) Tasting Notes: Lemongrass, Peach, Apricot, Wild Price: $38/227g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: A · Farmer Share: 50% Brew Methods: Pour-over, Chemex, V60 Food Pairings: Lemon tart, Stone fruit, Thai basil dessert Wow Proxy: 88/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Wilder Lazo's lemongrass-fermented Gesha is the kind of coffee that makes you question what coffee even is. The lemongrass fermentation adds an herbal, almost tea-like dimension to the already floral Gesha variety. Roasted in San Francisco. This is experimental processing at its most audacious — and it works. Buy: Pulse N Pause Coffee — https://pulsenpausecoffee.com [modcup-london-fog] Name: London Fog Producer: Modcup Coffee (USA) Origin: Blend, Cauca, Colombia & Yirgacheffe, Ethiopia Altitude: 1875m Variety: Caturra / Ethiopian Heirloom · Species: Arabica Processing: Semi-washed · Roast: Light-Medium Cupping Score: 89/100 (Estimated from tasting notes) Tasting Notes: Lavender, Bergamot, Lemon blossom Price: $30/340g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: B Brew Methods: Pour-over, Aeropress, Chemex Food Pairings: Earl Grey shortbread, Lavender scone, Lemon curd Wow Proxy: 72/100 Limited Release: No · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Jersey City's Modcup calls this a 'Modern Expression' and they're not wrong. London Fog bridges Colombian modern processing with Ethiopian washed clarity — the result is a cup that smells like walking through a botanical garden. Lavender, bergamot, lemon blossom. It's an Earl Grey tea lover's gateway into specialty coffee. Buy: Modcup Coffee — https://modcup.com [nordaggios-wush-wush-kodawari-ii] Name: Wush Wush — Kodawari Volume II Producer: Nordaggios Coffee (USA) Origin: Colombia, Santuario, Risaralda — Finca Esmeralda Negra Altitude: 1900m Variety: Wush Wush · Species: Arabica Processing: Anaerobic Washed, Thermal Shock · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 92/100 (Competition microlot) Tasting Notes: Raspberry, Passionfruit, Peach, White chocolate Price: $55/200g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: A Brew Methods: Pour-over, V60, Kalita Wave Food Pairings: Raspberry tart, White chocolate truffle, Passionfruit mousse Wow Proxy: 94/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Awards: Boris Herrera Competition Microlot Tony's Note: Boris Herrera's competition microlot is what Nordaggios calls 'A Liquid Collectable' — and they mean it. Wush Wush is one of the rarest coffee varieties on earth, originally from the Wush Wush forest in Ethiopia, now grown at 1900m in Colombia's Risaralda region. The anaerobic washed thermal shock process took 240 hours. Raspberry, passionfruit, peach, white chocolate. This is coffee as fine art. Kodawari Volume II — the Japanese concept of relentless pursuit of perfection. Buy: Nordaggios Coffee — https://nordaggios.com [flower-child-lisbeth-marino-sl9] Name: Lisbeth Marino SL9 Producer: Flower Child Coffee (USA) Origin: Peru, Inkahuasi, Cusco Altitude: 2200m Variety: SL9 · Species: Arabica Processing: Washed · Roast: Light Cupping Score: 89/100 (Estimated from variety/origin) Tasting Notes: Floral, Citrus, Stone fruit, Clean Price: $32/250g Mold Test: untested Transparency Grade: A Brew Methods: Pour-over, V60, Chemex Food Pairings: Citrus cake, Almond biscotti, Fresh berries Wow Proxy: 78/100 Limited Release: Yes · In Stock: Yes Tony's Note: Flower Child Coffee sources directly from Lisbeth Marino's farm at 2200 MASL in Cusco, Peru — one of the highest-altitude coffee origins in the world. SL9 is a Kenyan variety rarely seen outside East Africa, now thriving in the Peruvian highlands. Harvested October 2025, washed clean. The handwritten label tells you everything about the scale of this operation — this is artisan coffee at its most intimate. Buy: Flower Child Coffee — https://flowerchildcoffee.com ======================================================================== PART 2: COFFEE CHAIN RANKINGS (100 entries) Scoring: Coffee Quality 30% + Value 25% + Sourcing Ethics 20% + Experience 15% + Consistency 10% ======================================================================== #1 [S-TIER] Counter Culture Coffee HQ: Durham, NC · Founded: 1995 · Locations: 3 · Type: specialty Score: 88/100 · Price Range: $14-22/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 9/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 10/10 · Experience: 8/10 · Consistency: 9/10 Signature: Hologram Blend pour-over Strengths: Full transparency report; Direct trade pioneer; Consistent roast quality; Training centers nationwide Weaknesses: Limited retail locations; Not widely available in stores Verdict: The gold standard. Publishes full transparency report every year. Every farm, every price, every lot. The best $15/bag in America. Website: https://counterculturecoffee.com #2 [S-TIER] Onyx Coffee Lab HQ: Rogers, AR · Founded: 2012 · Locations: 4 · Type: specialty Score: 88/100 · Price Range: $18-45/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 10/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 9/10 · Experience: 9/10 · Consistency: 9/10 Signature: Black Forager Natural pour-over Strengths: Competition winners; Exceptional single origins; Beautiful café design; Transparent sourcing Weaknesses: Premium pricing; Limited locations Verdict: The most exciting roaster in America. Competition-winning quality at every price point. Their cafés are temples of coffee. Website: https://onyxcoffeelab.com #3 [A-TIER] Intelligentsia Coffee HQ: Chicago, IL · Founded: 1995 · Locations: 12 · Type: specialty Score: 80/100 · Price Range: $16-28/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 9/10 · Experience: 8/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Signature: Black Cat Espresso Strengths: Direct trade pioneer; Multiple locations; Strong training program; Consistent quality Weaknesses: Corporate ownership (Peet's); Some locations feel corporate Verdict: Pioneered direct trade in the US. Now owned by Peet's but quality remains high. The OG of third-wave coffee. Website: https://intelligentsia.com #4 [A-TIER] Verve Coffee Roasters HQ: Santa Cruz, CA · Founded: 2007 · Locations: 8 · Type: specialty Score: 84/100 · Price Range: $17-30/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 9/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 9/10 · Experience: 9/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Signature: Streetlevel Espresso Strengths: Stunning café design; Excellent single origins; Strong sourcing; LA + Santa Cruz presence Weaknesses: Premium pricing; West Coast only Verdict: California sunshine in a cup. Beautiful cafés, exceptional single origins, and a sourcing program that rivals anyone. Website: https://vervecoffee.com #5 [S-TIER] SEY Coffee HQ: Brooklyn, NY · Founded: 2017 · Locations: 1 · Type: specialty Score: 89/100 · Price Range: $18-55/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 10/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 10/10 · Experience: 8/10 · Consistency: 9/10 Signature: Worka Chelbesa Washed pour-over Strengths: Unmatched transparency; Best washed Ethiopians in US; Rigorous quality control Weaknesses: Single location; Premium pricing; Can feel intimidating Verdict: The most transparent roaster in New York. Their washed Ethiopians are the gold standard. One location, zero compromises. Website: https://www.seycoffee.com #6 [A-TIER] Heart Coffee Roasters HQ: Portland, OR · Founded: 2009 · Locations: 3 · Type: specialty Score: 84/100 · Price Range: $18-48/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 9/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 9/10 · Experience: 8/10 · Consistency: 9/10 Signature: Colombia Gesha pour-over Strengths: Exceptional consistency; World-class Geshas; Clean minimalist cafés Weaknesses: Portland only; Limited blends Verdict: Portland's most consistent roaster. Every single origin is excellent. Their Gesha lots are world-class. Website: https://heartroasters.com #7 [S-TIER] George Howell Coffee HQ: Boston, MA · Founded: 1984 · Locations: 3 · Type: specialty Score: 88/100 · Price Range: $16-95/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 10/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 9/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 9/10 Signature: Mamuto AA Kenya pour-over Strengths: Legendary founder; Exceptional roast quality; Deep sourcing relationships; Fair pricing for quality Weaknesses: Limited locations; Cafés feel dated Verdict: The man who coined 'specialty coffee.' 50 years of expertise. His coffees are masterclasses in roasting restraint. Website: https://georgehowellcoffee.com #8 [S-TIER] Passenger Coffee HQ: Lancaster, PA · Founded: 2014 · Locations: 3 · Type: specialty Score: 85/100 · Price Range: $16-30/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 9/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 9/10 · Experience: 8/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Signature: Kenya Nyeri pour-over Strengths: Outstanding Kenyan coffees; Fair pricing; Beautiful Lancaster café; Strong sourcing Weaknesses: Limited to Lancaster area; Small operation Verdict: Lancaster's gift to specialty coffee. Exceptional Kenyan lots and a sourcing program that punches way above its weight. Website: https://passengercoffee.com #9 [A-TIER] Ceremony Coffee Roasters HQ: Annapolis, MD · Founded: 2008 · Locations: 6 · Type: specialty Score: 83/100 · Price Range: $15-25/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 9/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 8/10 · Experience: 8/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Signature: Banko Gotiti Natural pour-over Strengths: Excellent natural Ethiopians; Multiple locations; Good value; Consistent quality Weaknesses: Mid-Atlantic only; Blends are average Verdict: The mid-Atlantic's best roaster. Natural Ethiopians that convert skeptics. Multiple locations without losing quality. Website: https://ceremonycoffee.com #10 [A-TIER] Madcap Coffee HQ: Grand Rapids, MI · Founded: 2008 · Locations: 3 · Type: specialty Score: 83/100 · Price Range: $16-28/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 9/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 8/10 · Experience: 8/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Signature: Kenya Gichatha-ini AA pour-over Strengths: Outstanding Kenyans; Midwest accessibility; Fair pricing; Beautiful cafés Weaknesses: Michigan only; Limited online presence Verdict: Proof that great coffee doesn't require a coastal zip code. Their Kenyan lots are consistently among the best in America. Website: https://madcapcoffee.com #11 [A-TIER] Stumptown Coffee Roasters HQ: Portland, OR · Founded: 1999 · Locations: 10 · Type: specialty Score: 77/100 · Price Range: $15-25/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 8/10 · Experience: 8/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: Hair Bender Espresso Strengths: Iconic blends; Multiple locations; Strong brand; Good cold brew Weaknesses: Corporate ownership; Quality inconsistency across locations; Resting on reputation Verdict: Portland's OG. Hair Bender is iconic. Now owned by Peet's, and some say the magic has faded. Still better than 95% of what's out there. Website: https://stumptowncoffee.com #12 [B-TIER] Blue Bottle Coffee HQ: Oakland, CA · Founded: 2002 · Locations: 100 · Type: premium Score: 69/100 · Price Range: $16-28/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 7/10 · Value: 5/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 9/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Signature: Hayes Valley Espresso Strengths: Stunning café design; Consistent experience; Wide availability; Strong brand Weaknesses: Nestlé ownership; Overpriced for quality; Style over substance Verdict: Beautiful cafés, decent coffee, Nestlé money. The Apple Store of coffee — the experience is the product, not the beans. Website: https://bluebottlecoffee.com #13 [A-TIER] Devoción HQ: Brooklyn, NY · Founded: 2006 · Locations: 5 · Type: specialty Score: 80/100 · Price Range: $16-25/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 9/10 · Experience: 9/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: Toro Blend Strengths: Unmatched freshness; Direct from Colombia; Stunning Williamsburg café; Unique model Weaknesses: Colombia only; Inconsistent across locations; Premium pricing Verdict: The freshest coffee in America — beans ship from Colombia within 10 days of harvest. The Williamsburg café is a destination. Website: https://dfrankfurt.com #14 [A-TIER] Coava Coffee Roasters HQ: Portland, OR · Founded: 2008 · Locations: 4 · Type: specialty Score: 81/100 · Price Range: $17-28/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 9/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 8/10 · Experience: 8/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Signature: Kilenso Mokonissa pour-over Strengths: Exceptional washed coffees; Respected by industry; Clean roasting style Weaknesses: Portland only; Can feel austere; Limited blends Verdict: The roaster that other roasters respect. Their washed Ethiopians are textbook. Portland's most serious coffee. Website: https://coavacoffee.com #15 [A-TIER] Equator Coffees HQ: San Rafael, CA · Founded: 1995 · Locations: 6 · Type: specialty Score: 83/100 · Price Range: $14-24/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 10/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Signature: Ethiopia Worka Sakaro pour-over Strengths: B Corp certified; Exceptional ethics; Fair pricing; Women-owned Weaknesses: Bay Area only; Cafés are functional not beautiful Verdict: Certified B Corp that proves ethical sourcing and great coffee aren't mutually exclusive. The conscience of California coffee. Website: https://equatorcoffees.com #16 [A-TIER] Olympia Coffee Roasting HQ: Olympia, WA · Founded: 2005 · Locations: 4 · Type: specialty Score: 81/100 · Price Range: $15-24/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 9/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Signature: Ardi Natural Ethiopia Strengths: B Corp certified; Excellent naturals; Fair pricing; Strong ethics Weaknesses: Washington only; Limited brand recognition Verdict: B Corp roaster with exceptional ethics. Their natural Ethiopians are crowd-pleasers. Pacific Northwest's conscience. Website: https://olympiacoffee.com #17 [A-TIER] Ritual Coffee Roasters HQ: San Francisco, CA · Founded: 2005 · Locations: 4 · Type: specialty Score: 77/100 · Price Range: $16-26/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 8/10 · Experience: 8/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: Guatemala Finca Rosma pour-over Strengths: SF institution; Strong Guatemalan lots; Multiple locations Weaknesses: Resting on reputation; Inconsistent across locations Verdict: San Francisco's OG specialty roaster. Their Guatemalans are classics. Still relevant after 20 years. Website: https://ritualroasters.com #18 [A-TIER] Tandem Coffee Roasters HQ: Portland, ME · Founded: 2012 · Locations: 2 · Type: specialty Score: 83/100 · Price Range: $15-24/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 9/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 8/10 · Experience: 8/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Signature: Ethiopia Yirgacheffe Washed pour-over Strengths: Exceptional washed coffees; Amazing pastries; Cozy cafés; Fair pricing Weaknesses: Maine only; Small operation Verdict: Portland, Maine's finest. Washed Ethiopians that are textbook. Also makes incredible pastries. Website: https://tandemcoffee.com #19 [A-TIER] Brandywine Coffee Roasters HQ: Wilmington, DE · Founded: 2013 · Locations: 1 · Type: specialty Score: 84/100 · Price Range: $14-24/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 9/10 · Value: 9/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 8/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Signature: Ethiopia Guji Natural pour-over Strengths: Exceptional value; Outstanding naturals; Strong online presence Weaknesses: Single location; Limited brand recognition Verdict: Delaware's best-kept secret. Natural Ethiopians that rival anyone. Possibly the best value in specialty coffee. Website: https://brandywinecoffeeroasters.com #20 [A-TIER] Black & White Coffee Roasters HQ: Wake Forest, NC · Founded: 2015 · Locations: 2 · Type: specialty Score: 82/100 · Price Range: $16-28/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 9/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 8/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Signature: The Natural Ethiopia pour-over Strengths: Competition-quality coffees; Fair pricing; Strong online Weaknesses: Limited locations; Low brand awareness Verdict: Quietly becoming one of the best roasters in America. Their natural Ethiopians and espresso blends are exceptional. Website: https://www.blackwhiteroasters.com #21 [A-TIER] Methodical Coffee HQ: Greenville, SC · Founded: 2015 · Locations: 3 · Type: specialty Score: 80/100 · Price Range: $17-35/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 9/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 8/10 · Experience: 8/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: El Paraíso Lactic pour-over Strengths: Exceptional experimental lots; Beautiful cafés; Growing reputation Weaknesses: Southeast only; Experimental coffees aren't for everyone Verdict: The Southeast's most exciting roaster. Their El Paraíso lots are world-class. Greenville's coffee destination. Website: https://methodicalcoffee.com #22 [A-TIER] Cat & Cloud Coffee HQ: Santa Cruz, CA · Founded: 2016 · Locations: 3 · Type: specialty Score: 80/100 · Price Range: $15-22/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 9/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Signature: Night Shift Blend Strengths: Exceptional community; Fun brand; Great blends; YouTube education Weaknesses: Santa Cruz only; Single origins are average Verdict: The most fun coffee company in America. Great blends, great vibes, great YouTube content. Coffee as community. Website: https://catandcloud.com #23 [A-TIER] Spyhouse Coffee HQ: Minneapolis, MN · Founded: 2000 · Locations: 6 · Type: specialty Score: 77/100 · Price Range: $14-22/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 8/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: Ethiopia Worka Natural Strengths: Great value; Multiple locations; Strong naturals; Midwest institution Weaknesses: Minnesota only; Blends are average Verdict: Minneapolis's flagship roaster. Natural Ethiopians that are crowd-pleasers. Best value in the Midwest. Website: https://spyhousecoffee.com #24 [B-TIER] Barista Parlor HQ: Nashville, TN · Founded: 2011 · Locations: 4 · Type: specialty Score: 71/100 · Price Range: $16-24/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 7/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 9/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: Golden Sound Blend Strengths: Stunning café design; Nashville institution; Great vibes Weaknesses: Style over substance; Overpriced; Coffee is good not great Verdict: Nashville's coolest coffee shops. The experience is the product — motorcycle-themed, industrial-chic, Instagram-ready. Website: https://baristaparlor.com #25 [A-TIER] Huckleberry Roasters HQ: Denver, CO · Founded: 2011 · Locations: 2 · Type: specialty Score: 78/100 · Price Range: $15-25/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 8/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: Guatemala El Injerto pour-over Strengths: Excellent Guatemalans; Fair pricing; Consistent quality Weaknesses: Denver only; Low brand recognition Verdict: Denver's best roaster. Their Guatemalan lots are exceptional. Solid across the board without being flashy. Website: https://huckleberryroasters.com #26 [B-TIER] Sightglass Coffee HQ: San Francisco, CA · Founded: 2009 · Locations: 3 · Type: specialty Score: 71/100 · Price Range: $16-26/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 7/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 9/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: Banner Dark Blend Strengths: Stunning roastery; Great experience; SF institution Weaknesses: Overpriced for quality; Style over substance Verdict: San Francisco's most beautiful roastery. The SOMA location is a cathedral of coffee. Quality is good, not transcendent. Website: https://sightglasscoffee.com #27 [B-TIER] Joe Coffee Company HQ: New York, NY · Founded: 2003 · Locations: 15 · Type: specialty Score: 70/100 · Price Range: $15-22/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 7/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: The Daily Blend Strengths: Many NYC locations; Consistent; Approachable; Good value Weaknesses: Not exceptional; Generic feel at some locations Verdict: New York's neighborhood roaster. Not trying to be the best — trying to be your local. And succeeding. Website: https://joecoffeecompany.com #28 [B-TIER] Café Grumpy HQ: New York, NY · Founded: 2005 · Locations: 8 · Type: specialty Score: 70/100 · Price Range: $16-22/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 7/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: Heartbreaker Espresso Strengths: Multiple NYC locations; Consistent quality; Good espresso Weaknesses: Riding TV fame; Not exceptional Verdict: Got famous from Girls, but the coffee was good before HBO. Solid NYC chain that doesn't try too hard. Website: https://cafegrumpy.com #29 [A-TIER] Parlor Coffee HQ: Brooklyn, NY · Founded: 2012 · Locations: 1 · Type: specialty Score: 76/100 · Price Range: $17-26/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 8/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Signature: Ethiopia Worka Natural Strengths: Clean roasting; Strong naturals; No pretension Weaknesses: Single location; Limited availability Verdict: Brooklyn's roaster for people who've outgrown Brooklyn roasters. Precise, clean, no-nonsense. Website: https://parlorcoffee.com #30 [B-TIER] Cuvée Coffee HQ: Austin, TX · Founded: 1998 · Locations: 2 · Type: specialty Score: 70/100 · Price Range: $15-22/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 7/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: Black & Blue Espresso Strengths: Nitro cold brew pioneer; Austin institution; Innovative Weaknesses: Texas only; Coffee quality is good not great Verdict: Austin's pioneer. Invented nitro cold brew on draft. The coffee is solid, the innovation is real. Website: https://cuveecoffee.com #31 [B-TIER] La Colombe Coffee Roasters HQ: Philadelphia, PA · Founded: 1994 · Locations: 30 · Type: premium Score: 67/100 · Price Range: $14-22/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 7/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Signature: Draft Latte (can) Strengths: Draft Latte innovation; Wide availability; Good cafés Weaknesses: Quality stretching with growth; Inconsistent across locations Verdict: Draft Latte in a can changed the game. The cafés are good. The coffee is fine. Growing fast, quality is stretching. Website: https://lacolombe.com #32 [B-TIER] Peet's Coffee HQ: Emeryville, CA · Founded: 1966 · Locations: 200 · Type: premium Score: 61/100 · Price Range: $12-18/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 6/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 6/10 · Experience: 6/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: Major Dickason's Blend Strengths: Historical significance; Wide availability; Consistent Weaknesses: Over-roasts everything; Corporate feel; Stuck in the past Verdict: The godfather of dark roast. Alfred Peet taught the Starbucks founders. Now a corporate chain that over-roasts everything. Website: https://peets.com #33 [B-TIER] Philz Coffee HQ: San Francisco, CA · Founded: 2003 · Locations: 70 · Type: premium Score: 58/100 · Price Range: $5-7/cup Scores — Coffee Quality: 5/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 5/10 · Experience: 8/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Signature: Mint Mojito Iced Coffee Strengths: Unique experience; Customization; Loyal following; Fun vibes Weaknesses: Coffee quality is average; Pre-blended with cream/sugar; No transparency Verdict: The anti-espresso bar. Every cup is hand-poured and customized. The experience is great. The coffee is mediocre. Website: https://philzcoffee.com #34 [C-TIER] Caribou Coffee HQ: Minneapolis, MN · Founded: 1992 · Locations: 400 · Type: premium Score: 56/100 · Price Range: $10-16/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 5/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 5/10 · Experience: 6/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: Caribou Blend Strengths: Midwest presence; Better than Starbucks; Consistent Weaknesses: Generic chain feel; Average coffee; No transparency Verdict: The Midwest's Starbucks alternative. Slightly better coffee, slightly better vibes. Still a chain. Website: https://cariboucoffee.com #35 [C-TIER] Dutch Bros Coffee HQ: Grants Pass, OR · Founded: 1992 · Locations: 900 · Type: mass-market Score: 49/100 · Price Range: $4-7/drink Scores — Coffee Quality: 3/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 3/10 · Experience: 8/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: Annihilator (sugar bomb) Strengths: Exceptional service; Fun culture; Fast; Loyal following Weaknesses: Coffee is terrible; Sugar-forward drinks; Zero transparency; Not really coffee Verdict: The In-N-Out of coffee. The experience is the product — friendly baristas, drive-through speed, sugar bombs. The coffee itself is an afterthought. Website: https://dutchbros.com #36 [B-TIER] Gregorys Coffee HQ: New York, NY · Founded: 2006 · Locations: 35 · Type: premium Score: 61/100 · Price Range: $4-6/drink Scores — Coffee Quality: 6/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 5/10 · Experience: 6/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Signature: Cold Brew Strengths: NYC convenience; Fair pricing; Better than Starbucks Weaknesses: Generic; No transparency; Growing too fast Verdict: NYC's fastest-growing chain. Better than Starbucks, cheaper than specialty. The commuter's choice. Website: https://gregoryscoffee.com #37 [B-TIER] Birch Coffee HQ: New York, NY · Founded: 2009 · Locations: 10 · Type: premium Score: 64/100 · Price Range: $4-6/drink Scores — Coffee Quality: 6/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 6/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Signature: Latte Strengths: Cozy cafés; Good vibes; Fair pricing Weaknesses: Average coffee; NYC only Verdict: NYC's coziest chain. The cafés feel like living rooms. The coffee is decent. The vibes are the real product. Website: https://birchcoffee.com #38 [B-TIER] Blank Street Coffee HQ: New York, NY · Founded: 2020 · Locations: 50 · Type: premium Score: 59/100 · Price Range: $3-5/drink Scores — Coffee Quality: 5/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 4/10 · Experience: 6/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: Matcha Latte Strengths: Cheapest specialty-adjacent; Convenient locations; Fast Weaknesses: VC-funded growth model; Average coffee; No soul Verdict: The VC-funded disruptor. Tiny kiosks, robot-assisted, cheaper than everyone. The coffee is fine. The model is interesting. Website: https://blankstreet.com #39 [C-TIER] Alfred Coffee HQ: Los Angeles, CA · Founded: 2013 · Locations: 10 · Type: premium Score: 53/100 · Price Range: $6-9/drink Scores — Coffee Quality: 5/10 · Value: 4/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 4/10 · Experience: 9/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Signature: Iced Vanilla Latte Strengths: Instagram-perfect; Celebrity clientele; Great design Weaknesses: Overpriced; Style over substance; Average coffee Verdict: LA's most Instagrammable coffee. 'But First, Coffee' is the brand. The experience is the product. The coffee is forgettable. Website: https://alfred.la #40 [B-TIER] Trade Coffee (subscription) HQ: New York, NY · Founded: 2018 · Locations: 0 · Type: premium Score: 65/100 · Price Range: $13-22/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 7/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 6/10 · Experience: 6/10 · Consistency: 5/10 Signature: Varies by subscription Strengths: Huge roaster network; Good discovery tool; Convenient Weaknesses: Inconsistent quality; Algorithm plays it safe; Middleman markup Verdict: Subscription aggregator partnering with 400+ roasters. Good for discovery. Algorithm tends toward safe picks. Website: https://trade.coffee #41 [C-TIER] Starbucks HQ: Seattle, WA · Founded: 1971 · Locations: 35000 · Type: mass-market Score: 47/100 · Price Range: $10-16/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 4/10 · Value: 3/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 5/10 · Experience: 6/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Signature: Pike Place Roast Strengths: Ubiquitous; Consistent globally; Good benefits for employees; Mobile ordering Weaknesses: Over-roasts everything; Overpriced; Destroyed the word 'specialty' Verdict: The world's largest coffee chain. Buys more specialty-grade coffee than anyone and roasts it all to charcoal. Consistent mediocrity at premium prices. Website: https://starbucks.com #42 [C-TIER] Panera Bread Coffee HQ: St. Louis, MO · Founded: 1987 · Locations: 2100 · Type: mass-market Score: 52/100 · Price Range: $12/month unlimited Scores — Coffee Quality: 4/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 4/10 · Experience: 5/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: Dark Roast (unlimited) Strengths: Unlimited subscription; Convenient; Decent value Weaknesses: Mediocre coffee; Not a coffee company Verdict: Unlimited coffee subscription for $12/month. The coffee is mediocre but the value proposition is real. Website: https://panerabread.com #43 [C-TIER] Dunkin' HQ: Canton, MA · Founded: 1950 · Locations: 12500 · Type: mass-market Score: 49/100 · Price Range: $8-12/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 4/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 3/10 · Experience: 4/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: Original Blend Medium Strengths: Cheap; Fast; Everywhere; Honest about what it is Weaknesses: Mediocre coffee; Zero transparency; Ugly stores Verdict: America runs on Dunkin'. The coffee is mild, forgettable, and cheap. It's not good by any standard, but it's honest about what it is. Website: https://dunkinathome.com #44 [D-TIER] Tim Hortons HQ: Toronto, Canada · Founded: 1964 · Locations: 5600 · Type: mass-market Score: 42/100 · Price Range: $8-12/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 3/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 3/10 · Experience: 4/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Signature: Original Blend Double-Double Strengths: Canadian institution; Cheap; Convenient Weaknesses: Mediocre coffee; Declining quality; Zero transparency Verdict: Canada's national coffee chain. Canadians defend it with patriotic fervor. The coffee is unremarkable. Website: https://timhortons.com #45 [C-TIER] Wawa Coffee HQ: Wawa, PA · Founded: 1964 · Locations: 1000 · Type: mass-market Score: 53/100 · Price Range: $2-4/cup Scores — Coffee Quality: 4/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 3/10 · Experience: 5/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Signature: Regular Coffee Strengths: Best convenience store coffee; Cheap; Always fresh; 24/7 Weaknesses: It's gas station coffee; Zero transparency Verdict: The best gas station coffee in America. That's a low bar, but Wawa clears it. Fresh, cheap, and available 24/7. Website: https://wawa.com #46 [C-TIER] McDonald's (McCafé) HQ: Chicago, IL · Founded: 1955 · Locations: 40000 · Type: fast-food Score: 55/100 · Price Range: $1-3/cup Scores — Coffee Quality: 4/10 · Value: 9/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 4/10 · Experience: 3/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Signature: Premium Roast Coffee Strengths: Best value anywhere; 100% Arabica; Consistent; Better than Starbucks Weaknesses: It's McDonald's; Zero transparency; Terrible experience Verdict: Dirty secret: McDonald's coffee is better than Starbucks drip. 100% Arabica, medium roast, $1 for a large. The best value in fast food coffee. Website: https://mcdonalds.com #47 [C-TIER] 7-Eleven Coffee HQ: Dallas, TX · Founded: 1927 · Locations: 13000 · Type: fast-food Score: 44/100 · Price Range: $1-3/cup Scores — Coffee Quality: 3/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 2/10 · Experience: 3/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Signature: Big Gulp Coffee Strengths: Cheap; Everywhere; 24/7 Weaknesses: Gas station quality; Stale; Zero transparency Verdict: The original convenience store coffee. Cheap, available, and exactly what you'd expect from a gas station. Website: https://7-eleven.com #48 [C-TIER] Black Rifle Coffee Company HQ: Salt Lake City, UT · Founded: 2014 · Locations: 30 · Type: mass-market Score: 44/100 · Price Range: $14-18/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 4/10 · Value: 4/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 4/10 · Experience: 5/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Signature: Beyond Black Dark Roast Strengths: Strong brand identity; Veteran-owned; Loyal following Weaknesses: Over-roasted; Overpriced; Culture over quality Verdict: A culture brand that happens to sell coffee. The marketing is about identity, not quality. The coffee is over-roasted and overpriced. Website: https://blackriflecoffee.com #49 [D-TIER] Scooter's Coffee HQ: Omaha, NE · Founded: 1998 · Locations: 700 · Type: mass-market Score: 41/100 · Price Range: $4-6/drink Scores — Coffee Quality: 3/10 · Value: 5/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 3/10 · Experience: 5/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Signature: Caramelicious Strengths: Fast drive-through; Friendly service; Growing fast Weaknesses: Mediocre coffee; Sugar-forward; No transparency Verdict: Midwest drive-through chain. Fast, friendly, forgettable. The coffee is a vehicle for sugar and milk. Website: https://scooterscoffee.com #50 [C-TIER] Biggby Coffee HQ: East Lansing, MI · Founded: 1995 · Locations: 350 · Type: mass-market Score: 44/100 · Price Range: $4-6/drink Scores — Coffee Quality: 3/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 3/10 · Experience: 5/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Signature: Butter Bear Latte Strengths: Friendly; Cheap; Midwest presence Weaknesses: Mediocre coffee; Flavored drink focus Verdict: Michigan's drive-through chain. Friendly, cheap, and the coffee is an afterthought to the flavored drinks. Website: https://biggby.com #51 [B-TIER] Saxbys HQ: Philadelphia, PA · Founded: 2005 · Locations: 15 · Type: premium Score: 62/100 · Price Range: $4-6/drink Scores — Coffee Quality: 6/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 6/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: Social mission; Student employment Weaknesses: Average coffee Verdict: Philadelphia chain with a social mission — student-run locations at universities. Coffee is decent, mission is admirable. Website: https://saxbys.com #52 [B-TIER] Compass Coffee HQ: Washington, DC · Founded: 2014 · Locations: 15 · Type: premium Score: 62/100 · Price Range: $14-18/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 6/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 5/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: DC presence; Fair pricing; Good vibes Weaknesses: Average coffee; No transparency Verdict: DC's homegrown chain. Better than Starbucks, cheaper than specialty. The capital's daily driver. Website: https://compasscoffee.com #53 [A-TIER] James Coffee Co. HQ: San Diego, CA · Founded: 2014 · Locations: 3 · Type: specialty Score: 73/100 · Price Range: $16-24/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Good naturals; San Diego presence Weaknesses: Limited locations Verdict: San Diego's best roaster. Natural Ethiopians that bring California sunshine. Solid across the board. Website: https://jamescoffeeco.com #54 [A-TIER] Switchback Coffee Roasters HQ: Colorado Springs, CO · Founded: 2011 · Locations: 2 · Type: specialty Score: 76/100 · Price Range: $14-22/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Excellent Rwandans; Fair pricing Weaknesses: Small market Verdict: Colorado Springs' best. Rwandan lots that are elegant. Proof great coffee exists outside big cities. Website: https://switchbackroasters.com #55 [A-TIER] Ghost Town Coffee Roasters HQ: Bozeman, MT · Founded: 2015 · Locations: 1 · Type: specialty Score: 73/100 · Price Range: $16-28/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Exciting coffees; Unique location Weaknesses: Single location; Remote Verdict: Montana's most exciting roaster. Pink Bourbon naturals that rival anyone. The mountain west's hidden gem. Website: https://ghosttowncoffee.com #56 [A-TIER] Klatch Coffee HQ: Rancho Cucamonga, CA · Founded: 1993 · Locations: 3 · Type: specialty Score: 72/100 · Price Range: $16-24/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 6/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Competition-grade; Strong espresso Weaknesses: Limited locations; Low profile Verdict: World Barista Championship supplier. Their espresso blends are competition-grade. SoCal's quiet champion. Website: https://klatchcoffee.com #57 [A-TIER] Eiland Coffee Roasters HQ: Tyler, TX · Founded: 2016 · Locations: 1 · Type: specialty Score: 72/100 · Price Range: $16-26/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 6/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Excellent light roasts; Great Pink Bourbons Weaknesses: Single location; Low awareness Verdict: Texas's best light roaster. Pink Bourbon honeys that are stunning. The South's most underrated roaster. Website: https://eilandcoffee.com #58 [A-TIER] Little Wolf Coffee HQ: Ipswich, MA · Founded: 2017 · Locations: 1 · Type: specialty Score: 74/100 · Price Range: $16-35/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 6/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Exceptional Geshas; Great value Weaknesses: Single location; Unknown Verdict: One of the most underrated roasters in America. Guatemalan Geshas that rival Panama at half the price. Website: https://littlewolfcoffee.com #59 [A-TIER] Vibrant Coffee Roasters HQ: Philadelphia, PA · Founded: 2018 · Locations: 1 · Type: specialty Score: 74/100 · Price Range: $15-24/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 6/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Exciting naturals; Great value Weaknesses: Single location; New Verdict: Philadelphia's most exciting young roaster. Guji naturals that are fruit bombs. One to watch. Website: https://vibrantcoffeeroasters.com #60 [A-TIER] Wrecking Ball Coffee Roasters HQ: San Francisco, CA · Founded: 2011 · Locations: 1 · Type: specialty Score: 72/100 · Price Range: $17-28/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 6/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Excellent Pacamaras; Complex coffees Weaknesses: Single location; Niche Verdict: SF's Pacamara specialist. El Salvador lots that are complex and creamy. The connoisseur's choice. Website: https://wreckingballcoffee.com #61 [D-TIER] Green Mountain (Keurig) HQ: Waterbury, VT · Founded: 1981 · Locations: 0 · Type: mass-market Score: 34/100 · Price Range: $10-14/box Scores — Coffee Quality: 3/10 · Value: 3/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 4/10 · Experience: 2/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: Convenient; Ubiquitous Weaknesses: Terrible coffee; Environmental disaster; Overpriced Verdict: K-Cups are the single greatest environmental and gustatory crime in coffee history. $40/lb for stale coffee in plastic pods. Website: https://keurig.com #62 [C-TIER] Nespresso HQ: Lausanne, Switzerland · Founded: 1986 · Locations: 800 · Type: premium Score: 51/100 · Price Range: $0.75-1.50/pod Scores — Coffee Quality: 5/10 · Value: 3/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 5/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Strengths: Beautiful design; Consistent; Recycling program Weaknesses: Overpriced; Average coffee; Pod waste Verdict: George Clooney's coffee. Beautiful machines, aluminum pods, mediocre espresso. The luxury brand of average coffee. Website: https://nespresso.com #63 [C-TIER] illy HQ: Trieste, Italy · Founded: 1933 · Locations: 0 · Type: premium Score: 56/100 · Price Range: $12-18/can Scores — Coffee Quality: 6/10 · Value: 4/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 6/10 · Experience: 5/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Strengths: Consistent globally; Quality control; Italian heritage Weaknesses: One-dimensional; Overpriced; No variety Verdict: Italy's premium export. Single-blend philosophy — one blend, roasted perfectly. Consistent but one-dimensional. Website: https://illy.com #64 [C-TIER] Lavazza HQ: Turin, Italy · Founded: 1895 · Locations: 0 · Type: mass-market Score: 46/100 · Price Range: $10-18/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 4/10 · Value: 5/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 4/10 · Experience: 4/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Wide availability; Italian heritage; Consistent Weaknesses: Average quality; Robusta blends; No transparency Verdict: Italy's largest coffee company. Super Crema is everywhere. The coffee is unremarkable — hazelnut, cream, woody bitterness. Website: https://lavazza.com #65 [D-TIER] Bulletproof Coffee HQ: Seattle, WA · Founded: 2013 · Locations: 0 · Type: premium Score: 41/100 · Price Range: $15-22/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 5/10 · Value: 3/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 4/10 · Experience: 3/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: Strong brand; Health positioning Weaknesses: Dubious science; Overpriced; Average coffee Verdict: Built an empire on mycotoxin fear. The science is dubious. The coffee is average. The marketing is genius. Website: https://bulletproof.com #66 [D-TIER] Death Wish Coffee HQ: Saratoga Springs, NY · Founded: 2012 · Locations: 0 · Type: mass-market Score: 36/100 · Price Range: $16-20/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 3/10 · Value: 4/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 3/10 · Experience: 3/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: Strong brand; Caffeine content Weaknesses: Terrible flavor; Robusta; Over-roasted Verdict: Markets itself as 'the world's strongest coffee.' Uses Robusta for caffeine, roasts to charcoal. If you want caffeine, take a pill. Website: https://deathwishcoffee.com #67 [F-TIER] Bones Coffee Company HQ: Deerfield Beach, FL · Founded: 2012 · Locations: 0 · Type: mass-market Score: 27/100 · Price Range: $14-18/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 2/10 · Value: 3/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 2/10 · Experience: 3/10 · Consistency: 5/10 Strengths: Fun branding; Variety Weaknesses: Artificial flavoring; Low quality base; No transparency Verdict: Flavored coffee to mask low-quality beans. Artificial cinnamon and vanilla extract over commodity coffee. The industry's dirty secret. Website: https://bonescoffee.com #68 [C-TIER] Community Coffee HQ: Baton Rouge, LA · Founded: 1919 · Locations: 0 · Type: mass-market Score: 44/100 · Price Range: $7-10/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 4/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 3/10 · Experience: 3/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: Regional loyalty; Cheap; Long history Weaknesses: Average coffee; No transparency Verdict: Louisiana's largest coffee brand. Regional institution. The coffee is perfectly adequate — mild, smooth, forgettable. Website: https://communitycoffee.com #69 [D-TIER] Eight O'Clock Coffee HQ: Montvale, NJ · Founded: 1859 · Locations: 0 · Type: mass-market Score: 36/100 · Price Range: $5-8/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 3/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 2/10 · Experience: 2/10 · Consistency: 5/10 Strengths: Cheap; Long history Weaknesses: Commodity quality; No transparency; Stale Verdict: Your grandparents' coffee. Now owned by Tata. Mass-produced commodity with zero transparency. At $5/lb, you get what you pay for. Website: https://eightoclock.com #70 [D-TIER] Chock Full o'Nuts HQ: New York, NY · Founded: 1926 · Locations: 0 · Type: mass-market Score: 34/100 · Price Range: $6-9/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 3/10 · Value: 5/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 2/10 · Experience: 2/10 · Consistency: 5/10 Strengths: NYC nostalgia; Cheap Weaknesses: Commodity quality; Misleading name; Stale Verdict: NYC institution turned commodity brand. The name is misleading — there are no nuts. The coffee is forgettable. Website: https://chockfullonuts.com #71 [C-TIER] Jot Coffee HQ: San Francisco, CA · Founded: 2018 · Locations: 0 · Type: premium Score: 46/100 · Price Range: $20-28/bottle Scores — Coffee Quality: 5/10 · Value: 4/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 4/10 · Experience: 4/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Convenient; Consistent Weaknesses: One-dimensional; Overpriced Verdict: Coffee concentrate — one tablespoon makes a cup. Convenient but one-dimensional. Strength over flavor. Website: https://jot.co #72 [C-TIER] Chameleon Cold-Brew HQ: Austin, TX · Founded: 2010 · Locations: 0 · Type: premium Score: 53/100 · Price Range: $8-12/bottle Scores — Coffee Quality: 5/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 5/10 · Experience: 4/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Organic; Wide availability; Decent cold brew Weaknesses: Nestlé owned; Limited range Verdict: Organic cold brew in grocery stores. Decent quality, fair price. Now owned by Nestlé. Website: https://chameleoncoldbrew.com #73 [C-TIER] STōK Cold Brew HQ: Denver, CO · Founded: 2015 · Locations: 0 · Type: mass-market Score: 47/100 · Price Range: $5-8/bottle Scores — Coffee Quality: 4/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 3/10 · Experience: 3/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Cheap; Widely available; Consistent Weaknesses: Average quality; No transparency Verdict: Grocery store cold brew. Cheap, consistent, and better than making bad hot coffee. The default cold brew for non-coffee people. Website: https://stok.com #74 [C-TIER] Kicking Horse Coffee HQ: Invermere, BC · Founded: 1996 · Locations: 0 · Type: mass-market Score: 48/100 · Price Range: $12-16/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 5/10 · Value: 5/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 5/10 · Experience: 3/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: Organic; Fair trade Weaknesses: Over-roasted; Lavazza owned Verdict: Canadian organic roaster bought by Lavazza. Fair trade, organic, over-roasted. The labels don't make up for the roasting. Website: https://kickinghorsecoffee.com #75 [D-TIER] Café Bustelo HQ: Miami, FL · Founded: 1928 · Locations: 0 · Type: mass-market Score: 41/100 · Price Range: $5-8/can Scores — Coffee Quality: 3/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 2/10 · Experience: 3/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: Cultural significance; Cheap; Strong Weaknesses: Over-roasted; Robusta likely; No transparency Verdict: Cultural icon with a cult following. Over-roasted commodity beans ground to dust. Best drowned in sugar and milk. Website: https://cafebustelo.com #76 [F-TIER] Folgers HQ: Orrville, OH · Founded: 1850 · Locations: 0 · Type: mass-market Score: 28/100 · Price Range: $6-10/can Scores — Coffee Quality: 2/10 · Value: 5/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 1/10 · Experience: 1/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: Cheap; Ubiquitous Weaknesses: Terrible quality; Stale; Zero transparency; Robusta Verdict: #1 selling coffee in America. Pre-ground, months old, Robusta-blended, roasted to oblivion. A national tragedy. Website: https://folgers.com #77 [F-TIER] Maxwell House HQ: Chicago, IL · Founded: 1892 · Locations: 0 · Type: mass-market Score: 27/100 · Price Range: $5-9/can Scores — Coffee Quality: 2/10 · Value: 5/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 1/10 · Experience: 1/10 · Consistency: 5/10 Strengths: Cheap Weaknesses: Terrible quality; Stale; Zero transparency Verdict: 'Good to the last drop' — we tested this claim. It is not good at any drop. Pre-ground commodity coffee. Website: https://maxwellhouse.com #78 [F-TIER] Nescafé HQ: Vevey, Switzerland · Founded: 1938 · Locations: 0 · Type: mass-market Score: 25/100 · Price Range: $6-12/jar Scores — Coffee Quality: 1/10 · Value: 4/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 2/10 · Experience: 1/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: Ubiquitous globally; Cheap Weaknesses: Terrible quality; Instant; Nestlé Verdict: The world's most consumed coffee brand. Spray-dried instant from the cheapest beans on earth. Nestlé has done more damage to coffee culture than any single entity. Website: https://nescafe.com #79 [D-TIER] Great Value (Walmart) HQ: Bentonville, AR · Founded: 1993 · Locations: 0 · Type: mass-market Score: 30/100 · Price Range: $4-7/can Scores — Coffee Quality: 2/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 1/10 · Experience: 1/10 · Consistency: 5/10 Strengths: Cheapest possible Weaknesses: Bottom-tier quality; Zero transparency Verdict: Walmart's store brand. The cheapest coffee money can buy. You get exactly what you pay for: nothing. Website: https://walmart.com #80 [C-TIER] Kirkland Signature (Costco) HQ: Issaquah, WA · Founded: 1995 · Locations: 0 · Type: mass-market Score: 55/100 · Price Range: $12-18/bag (3lb) Scores — Coffee Quality: 5/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 4/10 · Experience: 3/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Great value; Roasted by Starbucks; Bulk pricing Weaknesses: Still mass-market; Limited variety Verdict: Costco's store brand is secretly roasted by Starbucks. Better value than Starbucks retail. The best mass-market coffee by default. Website: https://costco.com #81 [A-TIER] Ruby Coffee Roasters HQ: Nelsonville, WI · Founded: 2014 · Locations: 1 · Type: specialty Score: 77/100 · Price Range: $17-42/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 9/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 8/10 · Experience: 6/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Exceptional experimental lots; Strong sourcing Weaknesses: Remote location; Limited availability Verdict: Wisconsin's best roaster. Their El Paraíso lots are world-class. Rural location, global quality. Website: https://rubycoffeeroasters.com #82 [A-TIER] Dragonfly Coffee Roasters HQ: Henderson, NV · Founded: 2016 · Locations: 1 · Type: specialty Score: 72/100 · Price Range: $18-65/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 6/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Rare Yemeni coffees; Unique offerings Weaknesses: Single location; Niche Verdict: Nevada's best roaster. Yemeni lots that are archaeological treasures. The desert's hidden gem. Website: https://dragonflycoffeeroasters.com #83 [B-TIER] Swift Cup Coffee HQ: New York, NY · Founded: 2016 · Locations: 0 · Type: specialty Score: 63/100 · Price Range: $15-20/pack Scores — Coffee Quality: 7/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 6/10 · Experience: 5/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Best instant coffee; Convenient; Specialty grade Weaknesses: Expensive per cup; Limited range Verdict: Specialty instant coffee. Freeze-dried single origins that are shockingly good. The future of travel coffee. Website: https://swiftcupcoffee.com #84 [B-TIER] Copper Cow Coffee HQ: Los Angeles, CA · Founded: 2017 · Locations: 0 · Type: premium Score: 61/100 · Price Range: $12-16/pack Scores — Coffee Quality: 6/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 6/10 · Experience: 6/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Unique concept; Vietnamese heritage; Convenient Weaknesses: Niche; Limited range Verdict: Vietnamese pour-over kits with condensed milk. Unique concept, decent execution. The best Vietnamese coffee outside Vietnam. Website: https://coppercowcoffee.com #85 [C-TIER] Dripkit HQ: New York, NY · Founded: 2017 · Locations: 0 · Type: premium Score: 56/100 · Price Range: $15-20/pack Scores — Coffee Quality: 6/10 · Value: 5/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 5/10 · Experience: 6/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: Convenient; No equipment needed Weaknesses: Expensive per cup; Average quality Verdict: Single-serve pour-over kits. Convenient, decent quality, but expensive per cup. The camping coffee upgrade. Website: https://dripkit.coffee #86 [B-TIER] Groundwork Coffee HQ: Los Angeles, CA · Founded: 1990 · Locations: 5 · Type: specialty Score: 68/100 · Price Range: $14-20/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 7/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 6/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: Organic pioneer; LA institution; Good ethics Weaknesses: Average quality; Dated feel Verdict: LA's organic pioneer. Solid coffee, strong ethics, Venice Beach vibes. The original conscious coffee company. Website: https://groundworkcoffee.com #87 [C-TIER] Allegro Coffee (Whole Foods) HQ: Thornton, CO · Founded: 1977 · Locations: 0 · Type: premium Score: 57/100 · Price Range: $10-16/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 6/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 6/10 · Experience: 4/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: Wide availability; Organic options; Decent quality Weaknesses: Amazon/Whole Foods owned; Inconsistent freshness Verdict: Whole Foods' in-house roaster. Decent quality, organic options, available everywhere Whole Foods is. The grocery store upgrade. Website: https://wholefoodsmarket.com #88 [A-TIER] Counter Culture (wholesale) HQ: Durham, NC · Founded: 1995 · Locations: 0 · Type: specialty Score: 83/100 · Price Range: $14-22/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 9/10 · Value: 8/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 10/10 · Experience: 5/10 · Consistency: 8/10 Strengths: Best wholesale program; Training centers; Transparency Weaknesses: Dependent on café execution Verdict: Counter Culture's wholesale program supplies hundreds of cafés. If your local shop serves CC, you're in good hands. Website: https://counterculturecoffee.com #89 [C-TIER] Stumptown Cold Brew (RTD) HQ: Portland, OR · Founded: 1999 · Locations: 0 · Type: premium Score: 56/100 · Price Range: $4-6/bottle Scores — Coffee Quality: 6/10 · Value: 5/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 6/10 · Experience: 4/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Widely available; Decent quality Weaknesses: Overpriced; Peet's owned Verdict: Stumptown's bottled cold brew is available in grocery stores nationwide. Decent quality, premium price. The gateway to better cold brew. Website: https://stumptowncoffee.com #90 [B-TIER] Cometeer HQ: Gloucester, MA · Founded: 2015 · Locations: 0 · Type: premium Score: 58/100 · Price Range: $2-4/capsule Scores — Coffee Quality: 7/10 · Value: 4/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 6/10 · Experience: 5/10 · Consistency: 7/10 Strengths: Innovative concept; Top roaster partnerships; Good quality Weaknesses: Very expensive; Frozen shipping Verdict: Flash-frozen specialty coffee in capsules. Partners with top roasters. Quality is surprisingly good. Price is not. Website: https://cometeer.com #91 [C-TIER] PJ's Coffee HQ: New Orleans, LA · Founded: 1978 · Locations: 150 · Type: mass-market Score: 49/100 · Price Range: $4-6/drink Scores — Coffee Quality: 4/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 4/10 · Experience: 5/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: NOLA institution; Fair pricing Weaknesses: Average coffee; Regional only Verdict: New Orleans chain. Better than Dunkin', worse than specialty. The Gulf Coast's default. Website: https://pjscoffee.com #92 [B-TIER] Colectivo Coffee HQ: Milwaukee, WI · Founded: 1993 · Locations: 15 · Type: specialty Score: 69/100 · Price Range: $13-20/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 7/10 · Value: 7/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: Beautiful cafés; Community focus; Good vibes Weaknesses: Inconsistent quality; Midwest only Verdict: Milwaukee's beloved roaster. Beautiful cafés, decent coffee, strong community. The Midwest's most charming chain. Website: https://colectivo.coffee #93 [B-TIER] La Marzocco Café HQ: Seattle, WA · Founded: 2016 · Locations: 1 · Type: specialty Score: 69/100 · Price Range: $5-8/drink Scores — Coffee Quality: 8/10 · Value: 5/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 7/10 · Experience: 9/10 · Consistency: 5/10 Strengths: Rotating roasters; Best equipment; Unique concept Weaknesses: Inconsistent; Single location; Expensive Verdict: The espresso machine company's café. Rotating guest roasters. The experience is unmatched. Consistency varies by roaster. Website: https://lamarzocco.com #94 [B-TIER] Toby's Estate Coffee HQ: Brooklyn, NY · Founded: 2012 · Locations: 3 · Type: specialty Score: 65/100 · Price Range: $16-22/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 7/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 6/10 · Experience: 7/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: Australian style; Good flat whites; Nice cafés Weaknesses: Limited locations; Average single origins Verdict: Australian-style coffee in Brooklyn. Flat whites done right. The coffee is good, the vibes are better. Website: https://tobysestate.com #95 [C-TIER] Storyville Coffee HQ: Seattle, WA · Founded: 2013 · Locations: 3 · Type: premium Score: 56/100 · Price Range: $18-28/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 6/10 · Value: 4/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 5/10 · Experience: 8/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: Stunning locations; Great experience Weaknesses: Overpriced; Average coffee Verdict: Seattle's most luxurious coffee experience. Beautiful Pike Place location. The coffee doesn't match the price tag. Website: https://storyville.com #96 [C-TIER] The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf HQ: Los Angeles, CA · Founded: 1963 · Locations: 1000 · Type: mass-market Score: 44/100 · Price Range: $12-16/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 4/10 · Value: 4/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 4/10 · Experience: 5/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: LA institution; Good blended drinks Weaknesses: Mediocre coffee; Overpriced; Declining Verdict: LA's original chain. Predates Starbucks. The coffee is mediocre, the ice blended drinks are the real product. Website: https://coffeebean.com #97 [D-TIER] Tully's Coffee HQ: Seattle, WA · Founded: 1992 · Locations: 5 · Type: mass-market Score: 42/100 · Price Range: $10-14/bag Scores — Coffee Quality: 4/10 · Value: 5/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 3/10 · Experience: 4/10 · Consistency: 5/10 Strengths: Seattle heritage Weaknesses: Nearly extinct; Average coffee; Declining Verdict: Seattle's other coffee chain. Once had 400 locations, now barely surviving. A cautionary tale of over-expansion. Website: https://tullys.com #98 [D-TIER] Krispy Kreme Coffee HQ: Winston-Salem, NC · Founded: 1937 · Locations: 1400 · Type: fast-food Score: 40/100 · Price Range: $2-4/cup Scores — Coffee Quality: 3/10 · Value: 6/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 2/10 · Experience: 4/10 · Consistency: 6/10 Strengths: Cheap; Pairs with donuts Weaknesses: Afterthought coffee; Not a coffee company Verdict: You're here for the donuts. The coffee exists to wash them down. It's fine for that purpose. Website: https://krispykreme.com #99 [F-TIER] Generic Gas Station Coffee HQ: Everywhere, USA · Founded: 1950 · Locations: 150000 · Type: fast-food Score: 22/100 · Price Range: $1-2/cup Scores — Coffee Quality: 1/10 · Value: 5/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 1/10 · Experience: 1/10 · Consistency: 3/10 Strengths: Everywhere; Cheap; 24/7 Weaknesses: Everything else Verdict: The bottom of the barrel. Stale, burnt, sitting on a hot plate for hours. The coffee of last resort. Website: #100 [F-TIER] Hotel Lobby Coffee HQ: Everywhere, USA · Founded: 1950 · Locations: 55000 · Type: fast-food Score: 18/100 · Price Range: $0-5/cup Scores — Coffee Quality: 1/10 · Value: 3/10 · Sourcing Ethics: 1/10 · Experience: 2/10 · Consistency: 2/10 Strengths: Available at 6am Weaknesses: Everything; Overpriced for quality; Stale; Depressing Verdict: The worst coffee in America. Stale pods, ancient drip machines, and the audacity to charge $5 for it. The coffee that makes you question your life choices. Website: ======================================================================== END OF BREWSOUL CATALOG Source: tonygreenberg.com/brewsoul For the full interactive experience, visit: https://tonygreenberg.com/brewsoul ========================================================================