Tag: Specialty Coffee

Bahrain Coffee Festival 2025 Opens Registration for Exhibitors

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Manama – Qahwa World

Following the official announcement of Bahrain’s first-ever coffee festival earlier this year, organizers have now opened registration for coffee shops, roasters, and equipment suppliers to participate as exhibitors in the upcoming Bahrain Coffee Festival 2025, taking place from December 9 to 13 at Exhibition World Bahrain.

The festival, organized by DXB Live in collaboration with Bahrain Chamber and Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, marks a historic step in the Kingdom’s growing coffee scene. The open call invites local and international coffee professionals to join under the theme “Be an Exhibitor”, showcasing their products, innovations, and expertise to an eager Bahraini audience.

Organizers describe the festival as “a celebration of coffee, culture, and creativity,” designed to highlight the journey from bean to cup through interactive workshops, live brewing sessions, product showcases, and sensory experiences.

The event aims to position Bahrain as a regional hub for coffee appreciation, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for specialty coffee across the GCC. It will also provide valuable networking opportunities between café owners, suppliers, and global industry leaders.

Participants are encouraged to register early to secure their exhibition spaces, as interest from across the region continues to grow rapidly.

Dubai Outdoes Dubai and Serves the World’s Most Expensive Cup of Coffee Once Again

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Dubai – Qahwa World

Dubai has done it again—setting a new record for the world’s most expensive cup of coffee and, remarkably, outdoing its own achievement. During an exclusive Panama Night event hosted by Julith Café, the city witnessed the official launch of Nido 7 Geisha, a legendary brew now served to the public at an unprecedented price of AED 3,600 (around USD 1,000) per cup.

Just six weeks after Dubai entered the Guinness World Records in mid-September, when Roasters Café served a cup priced at AED 2,500, Julith has taken the crown with an even higher price tag — proving once more that in Dubai, even records don’t stand still for long.

The rare Nido 7 Geisha beans were acquired by Julith in August at the Best of Panama 2025 auction, following a tense bidding war that drew 549 bids from elite roasters and collectors worldwide. The Dubai café purchased just 20 kilograms of the beans for AED 2,218,785 (USD 604,080)—the highest price ever paid for coffee.

Grown near Panama’s Baru Volcano, Nido 7 Geisha is cultivated in unique microclimates that produce its distinctive floral and fruity profile. It earned an exceptional 98 points at the Best of Panama competition, with six of the 22 judges awarding a perfect 100 points, setting a new global benchmark for coffee excellence.

world’s most expensive coffee Dubai

Serkan Sagsoz, Julith’s Head Roaster and Turkey’s Barista Champion, commented: “We’re not chasing publicity; we’re crafting an experience. This coffee captures the essence of patience, artistry, and nature. Every cup is a story — not just a drink.”

Sagsoz added that a portion of the beans has been reserved for His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, in appreciation of his vision and leadership, and in recognition of Dubai’s growing role as a capital of global coffee culture.

The Geisha Panama Experience now available at Julith offers an intimate sensory journey for up to four guests, guided by expert baristas who share the story of the beans from Panama’s misty highlands to Julith’s meticulous roasting in Dubai. Guests describe the brew as a harmony of jasmine, citrus, apricot, and peach, with a honey-like sweetness that lingers.

Founded in August 2025, Julith Café merges a roastery, café, boutique store, and social space under one roof. Its name derives from Just Like This, reflecting a philosophy of elegance in simplicity. The café sources its beans from Hacienda La Esmeralda, the renowned Peterson family estate that first introduced Geisha coffee to the world and continues to set the gold standard for specialty coffee cultivation.

With this new record, Dubai once again proves that it doesn’t just follow global trends — it creates them, cup after cup.

Shanghai: The New Global Capital of Coffee

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Shanghai – Qahwa World

Shanghai is no longer just a financial giant or a global trade hub — it has become the beating heart of Asia’s coffee revolution. In this city, coffee is not merely a beverage but a cultural experience, a sensory journey, and a form of art that mirrors the city’s energy and sophistication.

According to Dao Insights, Shanghai had over 9,115 cafés in 2024 — more than any other city in the world. Meanwhile, coffee consumption in China has surged by 150% over the past decade, reaching 6.3 million 60-kg bags, as reported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This exponential growth has positioned Shanghai at the center of China’s rapidly evolving coffee landscape.

A New Coffee Culture

In Shanghai, cafés are not just places to sit; they are creative spaces where art, science, and culture meet. Each café tells a story — some focus on visual aesthetics, pouring coffee in delicate, layered forms, while others emphasize scientific precision, measuring temperature to show how heat transforms flavor.

The city has become a living laboratory for coffee innovation, where craftsmanship and curiosity coexist.

Boundless Imagination

Shanghai’s coffee scene is defined by its fearlessness. Here, one can find orange-infused Americanos, latte served in green bell peppers, or espresso blended with durian. What might seem eccentric elsewhere has become a signature of the city’s inventive spirit.

Local chains have embraced fruit-based coffee drinks, offering seasonal flavors like apricot, pineapple, and watermelon. This trend reflects Shanghai’s creative confidence — redefining coffee on its own cultural and sensory terms.

The Afternoon Ritual

Unlike Western cities that start their mornings with coffee, Shanghai comes alive in the afternoon. Between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., cafés are filled with professionals, students, and artists seeking focus or inspiration.

Most cafés open around nine in the morning and stay active late into the evening, reflecting the city’s dynamic rhythm. Coffee here is not a wake-up drink — it’s a pause, a conversation, and a source of renewal.

From Cup to Knowledge

High-end cafés like Coffee Spot and Spot Table offer an “All-in-One” experience — one coffee served three ways: black, with milk, and as a signature creation. Inspired by World Brewers Cup competitions, this concept invites guests to discover coffee as both science and art.

Each serving comes with an information card detailing origin, processing, and temperature, turning a simple tasting into an educational experience.

Coffee as Visual and Emotional Art

Shanghai’s cafés are built around design as much as taste. From concrete walls and soft lighting to carefully placed cups and textures, every detail adds to the experience. Coffee is not a commodity here; it is culture itself.

Some cafés accompany drinks with flavor charts and temperature notes, while others treat every cup as a moment of meditation — a meeting point between beauty, aroma, and emotion.

The Festival of Coffee and Creativity

Every year, the Shanghai Coffee Culture Festival takes place in Jing’an District, attracting over 50,000 visitors from across China and abroad. The event showcases daring creations such as coffee infused with aged vinegar from Shanxi Province or brews inspired by traditional Chinese medicine, featuring dandelion, licorice, and Sichuan pepper.

The festival has become a true reflection of Shanghai’s identity — a blend of tradition and innovation, experimentation and respect for flavor.

A City Connected by Coffee

Coffee has woven itself into the fabric of Shanghai’s society. In small alleys and glass towers alike, cafés have become meeting points for designers, entrepreneurs, and students. Independent micro-roasters sit beside luxury lounges, together shaping a vibrant community built on creativity.

Among the most influential names are Yunnan Dehong Dehome, which promotes locally grown Chinese coffee from Yunnan Province — once overlooked, now celebrated for its delicate sweetness and cocoa-like finish.

From a Cup to a Culture

Coffee in Shanghai is more than a drink — it is a reflection of the city’s soul: its speed, precision, and openness to the world. From street kiosks to coffee palaces spanning 9,000 square meters, the city lives and breathes coffee every day.

No longer a borrowed tradition, coffee has become a distinctly Chinese expression — a symbol of modern life, creativity, and identity. And at the heart of it all stands Shanghai, the new global capital of coffee, where every cup tells a story of progress, passion, and imagination.

Mokha 1450 Opens Its New Boutique in Dubai Inside Modora’s Luxury Showroom

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Dubai – Qahwa World

In an exceptional evening that brought together coffee, art, and beauty, Mokha 1450, Dubai’s pioneer of specialty coffee, inaugurated its new boutique in the city. — located within the newly opened Modora showroom in Al Barsha 2.
The showroom was launched by GMG, a global well-being company, as a distinguished brand for premium furniture and home décor, expanding its home division and reinforcing its presence in the luxury lifestyle and retail sectors across the UAE.

The opening ceremony was attended by Garfield Kerr, President of the Specialty Coffee Association and Founder of Mokha 1450; Rob Canning, General Manager of Modora; Khalid Al Mulla, President of the Specialty Coffee Association – UAE Chapter; and Federico Ortile, General Manager of the Simonelli Foundation in the Middle East, along with prominent business leaders and coffee enthusiasts from across Dubai.

During his speech, Rob Canning described the new venue as “a space that merges the serenity of nature with refined elegance,” emphasizing the goal of creating “an environment where everyone can feel at home — where calm, design, and a five-star experience coexist.”

He noted that the café within the showroom offers “a wonderful space to relax, enjoy a cup of coffee, and meet clients in comfort,” adding that Modora was designed “not as a traditional furniture store, but as a place that expresses emotion, style, and cultural diversity — reflecting the spirit of the UAE and its people.”

His words echoed the essence of Mokha 1450’s philosophy, where craftsmanship, creativity, and sensory experience come together to elevate every space it touches. With its meticulous attention to detail and devotion to innovation, Mokha 1450 continues to transform each location into a destination of refined taste — one that embodies Dubai’s timeless appreciation for excellence and the art of coffee.

From a business perspective, Mohammad A. Baker, Vice Chairman and CEO of GMG, noted that “the launch of Modora marks a major step in GMG’s growth journey, tapping into a home and furniture design market valued at around USD 3.7 million, projected to surpass USD 5.7 million by 2033.”

He added that Modora “strengthens GMG’s presence in the premium furniture segment while supporting local talent, suppliers, and innovation across the retail value chain.”

The UAE’s luxury home and furniture sector continues to expand, driven by booming residential and hospitality markets and a growing interest in sustainable design. Industry data shows that the market reached USD 2.19 billion in 2024, with strong growth expected in the coming years.

Dubai’s real estate momentum underscores this trend — property sales surged 40% in the first half of 2025, reaching AED 326.6 billion compared to AED 233 billion during the same period in 2024. This surge in upscale residential projects is fueling demand for high-end interiors and elegant living concepts.

Developed to meet this rising demand, Modora introduces a design philosophy rooted in craftsmanship and aesthetic distinction, offering collections that span bedrooms, dining rooms, living spaces, tables, rugs, glassware, and accessories — all tailored to contemporary living in the UAE.

The presence of Mokha 1450 within Modora’s refined space is more than a visual complement — it represents a synergy of design and sensory experience, where aroma meets artistry, and where the language of coffee becomes part of Dubai’s ever-evolving narrative of luxury and innovation.

The Kona Coffee Fraud: When Geochemistry Exposed the Truth and Restored Authenticity

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Dubai – Qahwa World

In early October 2025, U.S. federal authorities uncovered one of the largest coffee fraud cases in recent history. Prosecutors charged 66-year-old businesswoman Patricia Johnson, from Kona, Hawaii, for her alleged involvement in selling massive quantities of counterfeit coffee marketed as “100% Kona.”

According to court documents published by Hawaii News Now on October 2, 2025, Johnson imported approximately 88 metric tons (about 194,000 pounds) of low-cost coffee from South America over more than a decade, repackaging and selling it in the United States as genuine “Kona Coffee.” The operation generated millions of dollars in illegal profits, deceiving consumers and damaging the reputation of authentic Kona growers.

Kona coffee is among the most distinguished varieties in the world, cultivated on the fertile slopes of Mauna Loa in Hawaii, where young volcanic soils and a tropical microclimate produce a rich, balanced, and subtly fruity cup. Its exclusivity and premium prices have long made it a target for counterfeiters seeking to capitalize on its global prestige. Over the years, the market saw a growing influx of products labeled as “Kona” being sold at unusually low prices, prompting suspicion and triggering a scientific investigation unlike any the coffee world had seen before.

Back in 2020, researchers from the University of Utah, led by Bitter and colleagues, published a groundbreaking study in Food Chemistry 320 demonstrating that roasted coffee beans retain a stable mineral fingerprint that reflects the geochemical makeup of the soil where they were grown. Using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), the team measured 44 trace elements in roasted Arabica coffees from 21 countries, focusing not on absolute concentrations—which roasting can alter—but on elemental ratios such as Rb/Ni, Mn/Sr, and Ce/Yb. These ratios remain consistent even after roasting, serving as precise geochemical markers for verifying a coffee’s origin.

When U.S. investigators applied this scientific method to samples from the suspected Kona coffee, the results were conclusive: the mineral profile did not match the known geochemical signature of Kona’s young basaltic soils. Instead, it matched that of continental South American soils, confirming that the coffee was falsely labeled. The findings became the forensic cornerstone of the case, offering irrefutable proof that “the soil never lies.”

This case went far beyond a simple commercial dispute — it became a defining moment in how agricultural authenticity is protected worldwide. Experts say the integration of geochemical fingerprinting in food forensics represents a turning point for both science and trade. It not only exposed a decade-long fraud but also reinforced the principle of traceability through science, ensuring that terroir and truth can once again align in every cup.

The Kona scandal also highlighted how cutting-edge analytical chemistry can serve as a guardian of transparency and fairness. For producers, it protects geographical indications and guarantees fair recognition for genuine coffee growers. For scientists, it validates the power of multi-element and isotopic analysis in authenticating food origins. And for consumers, it restores confidence that when they buy coffee labeled as Kona, Yirgacheffe, or Tarrazú, they are tasting the true essence of that land.

The Kona Coffee Fraud proved that while marketing can deceive, the soil cannot. Through science, justice, and data, geochemistry has given authenticity its voice back — one that speaks, quite literally, from the ground beneath the roots.

Abdulla alsakkaf: A Coffee Dream Brewing from Umm Al-Quwain to All of the UAE

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Umm Al-Quwain – Ali Alzakary

In the tranquil emirate of Umm Al-Quwain, where calm meets ambition, a young Yemeni entrepreneur turned his daily passion for coffee into a vibrant business story. That’s how Profile Specialty Coffee was born — a café that brings together quality, accessibility, and authenticity in every cup.

Abdulla alsakkaf was not a coffee expert when he started; he was simply a true coffee lover who believed that mastery comes through curiosity and consistency. From a modest idea to a thriving specialty coffee shop, he built his path one espresso at a time — driven by the belief that real success begins with passion, not possession.

In this inspiring conversation, we get closer to Al-Saggaf’s journey, his challenges, his vision for the future, and how he turned a simple love for coffee into a growing brand in the UAE.
Read the full interview and discover the inspiring journey of Abdulla alsakkaf, the young man who turned his passion into a story of success.

Abdullah, welcome. Please introduce yourself and your project.

I’m Abdulla alsakkaf, founder of Profile Specialty Coffee, located in the Emirate of Umm Al-Quwain. We started the project about a year and ten months ago, in January 2024.

How did the idea come to you?

I’ve always loved coffee — especially specialty drinks like cortado and flat white. I noticed that Umm Al-Quwain lacked cafés serving quality specialty coffee at affordable prices. Coffee is part of daily life, but not everyone can afford expensive cups every day. So, I wanted to create a place that combines both quality and fair pricing — a café for everyone.

Where did you begin?

Passion alone isn’t enough to start a business. I reached out to friends with experience in café management, not just those who love coffee. Together, we conducted a simple feasibility study, discussed equipment and essentials, and built the concept step by step. My friends supported me a lot — from setup to operations — until we officially launched.

How did you come up with the name “Profile”?

We wanted something that represents identity — a kind of “profile” for specialty coffee itself. The idea was to make our café stand out as a symbol of excellence, much like the word “pro” means top quality. So we chose “Profile” as our brand name — a simple yet strong identity.

Abdulla Al-Sakkaf at Profile Specialty Coffee in Umm Al-Quwain, UAE

What were the biggest challenges you faced?

The hardest part wasn’t setting up the café or finding the right machines — it was managing people and maintaining consistent quality. Customers quickly notice any change in flavor or presentation. So the real challenge was building a disciplined, skilled team and keeping the same high standards every single day.

Did being in the UAE help your business?

Absolutely. The UAE’s coffee culture has grown tremendously in recent years. People here appreciate good coffee and understand its value. That environment helps a lot — it encourages experimentation and rewards quality.

Were you an expert in coffee before launching?

Not at all. I loved coffee but wasn’t trained in it. After opening, I began studying more seriously and took professional courses to improve my knowledge. My advice is: you don’t need to be an expert to start — but once you do, keep learning. Passion will take you far if you stay curious and keep improving.

What’s the key factor for success in a coffee business?

It’s a mix of everything — the beans, the baristas, and the equipment. But the beans come first. No matter how skilled the barista is, or how advanced the machines are, you can’t get a great cup without high-quality beans. Each element complements the other, but coffee always begins with the bean.

From your experience, what kind of coffee do customers prefer?

At first, most customers wanted Brazilian or Ethiopian beans because they were familiar with them. But I wanted to introduce them to new flavors — like Tanzanian and Yemeni coffee. We made it accessible and encouraged people to try. Today, our Yemeni coffee has become one of our top sellers, and customers love its balanced taste.

Do you think UAE customers have become more knowledgeable about specialty coffee?

Yes, definitely. People now understand more about flavors, acidity, and balance. They might not be experts like roasters or café owners, but they’ve developed an educated palate. That’s why baristas play a key role in guiding customers — explaining the coffee’s character and helping them appreciate its nuances.

Have global issues like rising prices or import tariffs affected your operations?

To some extent, yes — mostly through local roasters who import green beans. Since we work mainly with local roasters, we’ve been shielded from the worst of it. Still, whenever import or shipping costs increase, it eventually impacts all of us. Thankfully, the UAE market is competitive and stable, which helps balance prices.

Abdulla Al-Sakkaf at Profile Specialty Coffee in Umm Al-Quwain, UAE

What’s your vision for Profile Coffee?

Our dream is to expand across the UAE. We started in Umm Al-Quwain and plan to reach other emirates like Sharjah and Ajman. We’re also preparing a mobile coffee truck to take our experience to more customers. By 2026, we hope to open new branches and reach more people with our concept.

What advice would you give young people who want to start a coffee business?

Start only if you truly love coffee. Don’t do it because it’s trendy — do it because you’re passionate about it. When you love something, you’ll naturally grow in it. And never stop learning — coffee evolves every day. If you stay consistent and curious, you’ll succeed.

Do you serve only coffee, or other products as well?

We try to offer a complete experience. Along with coffee, we serve matcha, hibiscus, breakfast items, and desserts. We want everyone to enjoy their time — even those who don’t drink coffee. That variety makes the experience more inclusive and enjoyable.

Finally, where do you see Profile in five years?

Maybe not global yet, but definitely across the UAE. My goal is steady growth with the same high standards — to make Profile a trusted name wherever we go.

You Can’t Lead a Specialty Coffee Business Without Understanding Coffee

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By: Estella Zuleta Carmona

Owning a specialty coffee shop without understanding coffee is like running a music studio without knowing what sound means. You can have the best equipment, the right people, and all the passion in the world but if you can’t hear when something is out of tune, you’re not leading the craft; you’re just managing noise.

In specialty coffee, leadership begins with understanding. Not just the numbers, not just the concept but the product itself. You don’t have to be the one pulling shots or roasting beans, but you need to recognize what balance in espresso feels like, what defines a clean extraction, and why variables like water, grind, and temperature are not technical details but expressions of consistency and care.

This isn’t about being a technician. It’s about responsibility understanding what your name represents in every cup that leaves your bar. A brand built on aesthetics or social media engagement can survive for a while, but a brand built on understanding lasts. Because when things go wrong and they always do knowledge is what helps you fix, adapt, and grow.

When you understand coffee, even at a foundational operational level, everything changes. Suddenly, conversations with your team become more meaningful. You can communicate in the same sensory and technical language. You can taste and identify what aligns with your concept instead of depending entirely on others to define your standard. You start making better decisions about workflow, equipment, and quality not based on trends or assumptions, but on clarity.

The owner who doesn’t understand coffee ends up chasing opinions changing direction based on whichever consultant or barista shouts the loudest. They spend money reacting to problems they don’t truly comprehend. Meanwhile, the owner who understands the craft builds direction. They don’t need to do everything themselves, but they lead with perspective. They can tell when something is off, and they know how to ask the right questions.

In specialty, knowledge isn’t about control; it’s about clarity. It creates alignment between the vision, the product, and the people behind it. It turns management into mentorship and transforms a business into a craft.

Because at the end of the day, you can’t represent a product you don’t understand. You don’t need to be the expert behind the bar but you do need to know what your bar stands for, and why every decision behind it should honor the coffee, the people, and the purpose that brought it to life.

Yannis Apostolopoulos Speaks Frankly About the Past, Present, and Future of Specialty Coffee

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The 5th Wave Podcast published a long interview with Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), under the title “The Past, Present and Future of Specialty Coffee.”
Given the importance of the insights shared, Qahwa World republishes the full conversation with minor editorial adaptation.

In today’s episode we’re speaking with Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association.

First established in the 1980s, the SCA is the largest coffee trade body globally and represents thousands of coffee professionals – from producers to baristas – all over the world.

In this conversation, Yannis discusses the evolution of the SCA and its ongoing efforts to make coffee more sustainable, equitable, and resilient, through research, standards, and education. He also shares his perspectives on the key challenges and opportunities in the industry, from climate change and sustainability to navigating economic uncertainty and the evolving role of technology and AI.

5thwave-the-business-of-c the-past-present-and-futu
Transcribed by TurboScribe.ai. Go Unlimited to remove this message.
One of the conversations that needs to be at the forefront is about risk. Who is taking the risk and who gets compensated for that risk? Welcome back to the 5th Wave Podcast. I’m Geoffrey Young, Editor-in-Chief of 5th Wave.

In today’s episode, I’m delighted to be joined by Yanis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the Specialty Coffee Association. First established in the 1980s, the Specialty Coffee Association, or the SCA as it’s often known, is the largest global coffee trade body representing thousands of coffee professionals from producers to baristas all over the world. In our conversation, Yanis discusses the evolution of the SCA and their ongoing efforts to make coffee more sustainable, more equitable, and more resilient through research standards and education.

He also shares his perspective on the key challenges and opportunities for our industry, from climate change and sustainability to navigating economic uncertainty and the evolving role of technology and AI. Welcome, Yanis. It’s very nice to be here.

Very nice to see you, Geoffrey. We see each other around the world at different spots and really, really excited to have you here actually in the studio, in Serendipity Studios. I wonder if you’d just give us a little bit of intro just on your own career and what drew you into the world of coffee.

So first of all, thank you for having me. It’s really an honor and a pleasure to be here. Well, coffee is an interesting story.

My background is mostly in wines and spirits. And around 2009, the business I used to work for decided to get into coffee. And the more I get to know coffee, I just think that coffee has this amazing, I would say, attribute that brings people in.

And you meet people, the community, the actual beverage. It’s so unique in many ways. I think it was the first time in my career that I realized, okay, I’ve been selling wine, spirits, or soft drinks.

But this time, it’s something that it’s actually good for your health. And you can contribute in making an impact or a difference in the world by impacting the livelihoods of many people. And that’s what drew me into specialty coffee.

I got involved as a volunteer in the Greek chapter, then as a board director. And then during, I would say, the initial conversations between the merger between SCAA and SCAE, the European and the American organization, I found myself working for SCAE and leading eventually SCAE around end of 2018. Wow.

So that’s a good seven years already. Almost seven. Yeah.

Little I know that the year after I become the CEO, there would be COVID and everything would change in the world, at least when it comes to trade shows, because as you remember, it used to be just trade shows. Now we’re doing much, much more. And we at SCAE are trying to make coffee better, to make coffee more sustainable, equitable, and thriving as an endeavor for everyone in the value chain.

And we do that by doing research. We use the research to set standards. And one of our most famous standards is the capping form and the capping protocol, which we recently changed based on the work we’ve done around the coffee value assessment system.

And then we educate people around the world in using those standards and trying to make them get skills to, I would say, focus on the gaps that we have in the coffee industry. And then we do events to try to bring people together and use those opportunities to disseminate the information of our research and standards. So research events and bring people together at events.

Yeah. Yeah. I mean, it’s a formidable organization, I must say.

I was wondering if you could share how many people the SCAE educates in a given year. It’s very interesting. First of all, I have to say that it’s a collective effort.

I have an amazing team of people. They are really passionate about making coffee better. It’s a collective effort from the SCAE board that changed a lot over the years, but also the executive team.

On an annual basis, we educate over 80,000 people globally. It’s really something which I find it very interesting because a lot of people want to get engaged in the coffee industry. We have a lot of, say, churn when it comes to people who are trying to find a career in the coffee industry.

And what we’re trying is to provide tools and education to do so. It’s very interesting. And I think professions around hospitality are going to be much, much more attractive in the future, given the changes that we’re going to see in the global workplace with AI.

I think people will always enjoy experiences in food, in coffee. And coffee is a very human product at the end of the day. Exactly.

Now, thinking about those gaps, what do you think are the key issues that you and your organization are faced with out there in a world? For our industry, you get to speak to a whole array of human beings, from coffee farmers to people that produce equipment, to traders, to all the way down to the baristas, the roasters, and everything. The array of people that you talk to on a daily basis, it must give you a good instinct in terms of what are the big topics for our industry that we need to face over the next decade or two. What are you concerned with? …

 

South America’s 100 Best Coffee Shops 2025 – Full List Revealed

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Dubai – Qahwa World

The global coffee community celebrates a new milestone as The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops unveils the official list of South America’s 100 Best Coffee Shops 2025, recognizing the continent’s finest cafés for their excellence, creativity, and cultural impact.

After months of evaluation and travel across cities, mountains, and coffee regions, the judges compiled a single, unified ranking that reflects South America’s dynamic coffee landscape — one that continues to inspire and shape global coffee culture.

This year’s edition honors cafés that deliver exceptional quality, unique concepts, sustainable practices, and authentic coffee experiences. From traditional roasteries to modern coffee laboratories, these 100 destinations represent the beating heart of coffee craftsmanship in the region.

South America’s 100 Best Coffee Shops 2025 — Complete List

  1. Tropicalia Coffee / Colombia

  2. Kafi Wasi Café Tostaduría / Peru

  3. Holaste! Specialty Coffee / Chile

  4. Fankør / Ecuador

  5. Tributo Casa de Café – Chacao / Venezuela

  6. Fruto Café / Argentina

  7. Monotono Specialty Coffee / Peru

  8. Cupping Café / Brazil

  9. Puku Puku / Peru

  10. Eco Mapu Coffee Villarica / Chile

  11. Typica Café / Bolivia

  12. Pergamino Café Laureles / Colombia

  13. Caferatto Café Especial / Colombia

  14. Wake Up Coffee Lab / Chile

  15. Masaro Café / Peru

  16. Mulano Coffee Shop / Ecuador

  17. Origen Tostadores de Café / Peru

  18. Casa Canela / Venezuela

  19. Mugen Coffee Project / Bolivia

  20. Coffee Five / Brazil

  21. Café Guayasamín – Centro Quito / Ecuador

  22. Café de Barrio / Argentina

  23. Three Monkeys Coffee Cusco / Peru

  24. Abstrakto Café de Especialidad / Uruguay

  25. Neira Café Lab / Peru

  26. Café Local / Chile

  27. Tasta Café / Peru

  28. Oso Café / Peru

  29. Insignia Coffee / Colombia

  30. Alquimia Specialty Coffee Shop / Bolivia

  31. Antaqa Café / Peru

  32. Café 4 Llamas – Santa Cruz / Bolivia

  33. Café Micelio Puerto Varas / Chile

  34. Rua – Café de Especialidad Curado / Ecuador

  35. Café 18 – El Chicó / Colombia

  36. Cronopios Café / Ecuador

  37. Abisinia Café y Tostaduría / Peru

  38. Slow Brew Coffee Shop Cuenca / Ecuador

  39. HB Bronze Coffeebar / Bolivia

  40. Tres / Argentina

  41. Don Salazar / Peru

  42. Cuervo Café / Argentina

  43. Punto Café / Peru

  44. Famosta Café / Colombia

  45. Negro Cueva de Café / Argentina

  46. Libertario Coffee Roasters – Calle 70A / Colombia

  47. Surry Hills Coffee Palermo / Argentina

  48. Azahar Café / Colombia

  49. D’sala Caffé / Peru

  50. Café Folks / Chile

  51. Café Melosa / Venezuela

  52. Florencia y Fortunata Specialty Coffee / Peru

  53. Roaster Specialty Coffee / Bolivia

  54. Stratto Bodega de Café + Coffee Shop / Ecuador

  55. Raiz Coffee / Peru

  56. Café Buena Vista / Bolivia

  57. Buho Nómada / Chile

  58. Colo Coffee / Colombia

  59. Atmósferico Cafetería de Especialidad / Ecuador

  60. Indera Experience Cafetería de Especialidad / Ecuador

  61. Kofi & Co / Brazil

  62. Típica Café Milla de Oro / Colombia

  63. Coffee Busters Roastery / Peru

  64. Mato Café / Brazil

  65. Cafetería Tunu Katari / Peru

  66. KOF – King of the Fork / Brazil

  67. Café Ao Leu / Brazil

  68. Primates Tostadores / Chile

  69. Lucca Cafés Especiais / Brazil

  70. María Julio Coffee Shop / Colombia

  71. Kaweh Coffee Shop / Ecuador

  72. Puma Café / Peru

  73. Dagada / Ecuador

  74. Somos Specialty Coffee / Bolivia

  75. Coffeestylers / Colombia

  76. Amanecer Coffee Store / Venezuela

  77. ArtemisA Coffee & Cocktail Bar / Chile

  78. Alto Tostado Coffee Roasters – Santa Cruz / Bolivia

  79. Eleganza Coffee Roasters / Chile

  80. Ciclos Café / Peru

  81. Blacksoul Café Brewing Lab / Bolivia

  82. Marrón Café / Venezuela

  83. Laurino Coffee / Colombia

  84. Café Nexos / Venezuela

  85. 9 Gramos Café / Colombia

  86. Manva Natural Market / Venezuela

  87. Rita Specialty Coffee Armenia / Argentina

  88. Café Black Mamba / Chile

  89. Kaffei / Paraguay

  90. Elevaria Café / Peru

  91. Casa Berracos / Uruguay

  92. Senzuru Coffee / Peru

  93. Anella Café / Venezuela

  94. Kajue Café / Argentina

  95. Varietale Chapinero / Colombia

  96. Ninina / Argentina

  97. Guanacoffee / Peru

  98. Barista Coffee House / Argentina

  99. Café Bauda / Chile

  100. Calu’s / Argentina

A Continental Celebration of Coffee Excellence

The 2025 list captures the remarkable growth of specialty coffee in South America, where cafés are increasingly emphasizing sustainability, direct trade, and community connection. From Peru’s mountains to Colombia’s coffee triangle, each café has earned its place through dedication and creativity.

This recognition is more than a ranking — it’s a celebration of coffee as a cultural bridge. Each destination tells a story of farmers, roasters, and baristas working together to redefine what coffee can be.

The organizers extended their gratitude to this year’s sponsors and partners:
@cafedecolombia, @corferias, @fidatecorg, @hechoencafe, Craft Specialty Coffee, and @fedecafeterosc, for their continued support in promoting excellence and sustainability in coffee.

About the Awards

The South America’s 100 Best Coffee Shops 2025 is part of The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops global initiative, which celebrates the finest cafés worldwide. The listings are curated by international coffee professionals who assess cafés on quality, innovation, design, and overall customer experience.

For the complete story and upcoming global rankings, visit:
https://theworlds100bestcoffeeshops.com/

JDE Peet’s Reports Strategic and Operational Progress, Confirms 2025 Outlook

Posted on by Qahwa World

Amsterdam – Qahwa World

JDE Peet’s N.V. (Euronext: JDEP), the world’s leading pure-play coffee company, announced continued progress in implementing its new brand-led growth strategy and productivity initiatives while reaffirming its 2025 financial outlook.

Strategic and Productivity Initiatives Under Way

On July 1, 2025, JDE Peet’s launched its “Reignite the Amazing” strategy, designed to accelerate brand-led growth and enhance operational efficiency. The company reported solid progress across several fronts:

  • U.S. Integration: The full integration of the U.S. capsules business into Peet’s Coffee was completed following the discontinuation of the L’OR Barista roll-out in the American market.

  • Distribution Transition: Peet’s is transitioning from its Direct Store Delivery (DSD) system to a direct central distribution model in the U.S., expected to be completed by the end of the first half of 2026.

  • Portfolio Optimization: The company exited its low-margin Food Ingredients (B2B) business in Asia.

  • Manufacturing Footprint: Two additional plant closures were announced—one in northeastern Brazil and another in the northeastern United States—as part of an ongoing global optimization program.

  • Brand Rationalization: Fifteen long-tail brands are scheduled for transition within the next six months.

  • Cultural Transformation: JDE Peet’s is reshaping its corporate culture around four newly defined values—Dare to amaze, Own it, Make it simple, and Win together—to foster agility, ownership, and transparency across the organization.

Business Performance Update

The company stated that its overall third-quarter performance was broadly in line with expectations, taking into account anticipated retailer negotiations and customer pre-buying during the first half of the year.

JDE Peet’s reaffirmed its 2025 outlook, citing strong discipline in pricing and cost control that continues to support gross profit and adjusted EBIT. Approximately 96 percent of the second wave of global price negotiations, which began in July, have already been completed.

While green-coffee prices remain significantly elevated and increasingly volatile compared to previous years, JDE Peet’s said it continues to manage these pressures effectively. The company also confirmed the termination of its share-buyback program as of September 1.

Update on Keurig Dr Pepper Transaction

The planned public offer by Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. (KDP) for all issued and outstanding shares of JDE Peet’s is progressing as scheduled:

  • The regulatory antitrust filing has been submitted in the U.S.

  • The company has received positive advice from JDE Peet’s Dutch Works Council.

  • The transaction closing remains expected in the first half of 2026, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of customary pre-offer and closing conditions.

About JDE Peet’s

JDE Peet’s is the world’s largest pure-play coffee company, serving approximately 4,400 cups of coffee per second across more than 100 markets. Guided by its Reignite the Amazing strategy, the company is pursuing brand-led growth through three global power brands—Peet’s, L’OR, and Jacobs—alongside a portfolio of nine local icons.

In 2024, JDE Peet’s generated €8.8 billion in sales and employed more than 21,000 people worldwide.
More information: www.jdepeets.com

Dr. Amani Adam: Coffee Can Be a Remedy—If We Understand It Well

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai – Ali Alzakary

In a world where health meets passion and science blends with the senses, Dr. Amani Adam chose an unconventional path — from pharmacy to coffee. She didn’t just drink it; she studied it like a medicine, uncovering its complex chemistry and its effects on mood and body.

Her journey began with a simple question: Why does coffee sometimes make me feel good and other times uneasy? From that question emerged a passion for understanding coffee scientifically, transforming it from a daily beverage into a tool for enhancing mental and physical well-being.

In this exclusive interview with Qahwa World, Dr Amani shares how she brings together science and art in every cup—redefining coffee not as a quick stimulant, but as a balanced and mindful lifestyle.

Join us as we explore how every sip can become a step toward wellness.

You began your career as a pharmacist, then turned toward coffee as a means of promoting health. What led to this bold shift, and how did your medical background influence your passion for understanding coffee’s effects?

The transformation began when I realised that although coffee was my favourite drink, it sometimes affected my health and mood. Instead of giving it up, I decided to explore why through a scientific lens rooted in my pharmacy background. That led me to view coffee entirely differently, as a complex chemical compound that can be understood and optimised. That’s where my passion for linking coffee and health was born.

You faced a major challenge when people told you that you were “too old” to start over at thirty. What helped you turn that doubt into motivation, and how did your MBA shape your vision of new opportunities?

Honestly, that statement was a turning point in my life. Instead of discouraging me, it made me more determined to change. I decided to pursue an MBA because I wanted to combine science with leadership and strategic vision. The degree helped me see opportunities differently and understand how to turn passion into a tangible project with real impact.

Your story is truly inspiring for those thinking about changing their career path. What advice would you give someone hesitant to reinvent themselves, based on your experience?

Don’t wait for the perfect moment — it never comes. Change is always difficult at first, but persistence makes it possible. When I started, very few encouraged me; most thought it was too hard or that no one cared about coffee. But my background in market analysis helped me see the future of coffee in the Middle East as one of the fastest-growing sectors. My goal was to contribute to spreading knowledge in this field. The key is to start small, keep learning, and keep moving. Every challenge is a new opportunity for growth, and the most important thing is to believe in yourself even when others doubt you.

You describe your approach as “enhancing health and mood in every sip.” How do you define functional coffee, and what makes it more than just a stimulating drink?

Functional coffee, for me, is coffee that doesn’t just give us energy but also supports our physical and mental health. It’s coffee prepared with care — from the choice of beans to the brewing method — and enriched with natural elements that boost its nutritional value. Why not make a daily drink a source of wellness? It’s a balance between flavor and function — a lifestyle, not just a beverage.

Many people see coffee merely as a quick energy boost. How do you work through your content to change this perception and present coffee as a tool for daily well-being?

I try to present coffee from a simple, scientific, and engaging perspective. I explain how it can improve mood, focus, and general well-being when consumed mindfully. I share practical tips such as the best time to drink coffee or which type suits different lifestyles and health conditions. I receive many questions about chronic issues like diabetes, hypertension, or digestive problems, and I tailor recommendations to each person’s needs—with great positive feedback.

What are the most common misconceptions about coffee and health that you encounter, and how do you help people make more informed choices?

One of the most common misconceptions is that coffee “harms your health” or “causes dehydration”. The truth depends on the quantity, quality, and preparation method. I always emphasise that coffee can be very beneficial if understood and consumed properly.

You hold two certifications in coffee evaluation. How have they influenced you and placed you at the intersection of science and art in the coffee world?

These certifications completely changed my perspective on coffee. I learnt that evaluation is not only about taste but also about understanding chemical composition, aroma, and flavor. I found myself at the intersection of science and art — where scientific knowledge becomes a sensory experience.

How have these certifications helped you connect flavours with health benefits, such as choosing beans that enhance mood?

They’ve allowed me to identify coffee beans rich in compounds that boost energy or improve mood, such as certain Arabica varieties with high antioxidant levels. I now see coffee as a way to improve mental well-being, not just as a stimulant.

You’re currently pursuing your Q Grader certification. What have you learnd about the relationship between coffee quality (flavour and aroma) and mental health?

I’ve learned that good coffee is not just about refined flavor; it’s a complete experience that starts with aroma and ends with how it makes you feel. High-quality aromas and flavors truly affect the nervous system and mood positively. Many people avoid coffee because they associate it with bitterness — simply because they haven’t discovered the varieties and brewing methods that suit them best.

You launched a digital platform focused on healthy coffee content. What inspired this step, and how do you choose the topics you share with your audience?

I started the platform to share the knowledge I wished I had when I first began. I choose topics based on people’s actual needs — caffeine balance, pre-workout coffee, or its relation to sleep and mood — and I always try to make the information accessible and engaging. I constantly follow the latest research and coffee market trends to translate them into simple, practical insights for my audience.

How do you balance scientific accuracy with simplicity and engagement on social media?

I rely on simplifying information without compromising accuracy. I use a friendly tone, add humor or personal stories, and make science part of everyday life rather than a dry subject.

How do you see the future of functional coffee in the Gulf region, and what global trends in this field excite you the most?

I see a very promising future for functional coffee in the Gulf, especially with the growing awareness of healthy lifestyles. The global trend that excites me most is blending coffee with natural supplements such as probiotics or herbs that enhance energy and mood. I believe the future belongs to coffee that nourishes both body and mind.

Anatoly Gorbunov Reveals to Qahwa World the Story Behind the World’s Most Expensive Cup of Coffee

Posted on by Qahwa World

Dubai – Ali Alzakary

In September, Dubai witnessed an event that captured the attention of the global coffee community. The café chain Roasters Specialty Coffee House entered the Guinness World Records for setting a new global milestone — the world’s most expensive cup of coffee, priced at USD 680.

Behind this achievement lies not just an expensive beverage but a story of passion, persistence, and a pursuit of perfection. In an exclusive interview with Qahwa World, Anatoly Gorbunov, the General Beverage Director of the group, shared how this record was born.

From an Idea to a Dream

“It all began with our dream to obtain Esmeralda coffee from Panama,” recalls Anatoly. “This variety is considered one of the rarest and most expensive in the world. For several years, we tried to win it at auction, but each time the beans went to other buyers.

In January, our founder and CEO, Konstantin Harbuz, told me, ‘I want us to get this coffee, no matter what it takes. Use all your contacts.’

Anatoly adds, “It took less than a week of calls and searching before I found someone who had a small amount of it. After long negotiations, we bought three kilograms of this rare coffee, despite its high price—we wanted it badly, and we got it.”

A Special Presentation for a Special Coffee

“We introduced this coffee to the menu at one of our central branches on the Boulevard and planned every detail: handcrafted double-glass cups, a special dessert designed to match the coffee’s flavor profile.

Guests cannot order Esmeralda immediately — it must be reserved at least a day in advance. We invite our head roaster, and the preparation takes place right in front of the guest, as an individual, personalized service. Everything is accompanied by a story about the coffee’s origin, its rarity, and what makes it exclusive. It’s a true coffee performance.”

The Road to the Guinness Record

“In April, we started selling Esmeralda. At the end of the month, during one of our meetings, the idea came up: why not make all of Dubai hear about it? That’s when we decided to aim for a Guinness record,” says Gorbunov.

The team contacted the Guinness World Records organization. After verification, it turned out that the existing world record belonged to a coffee priced at only USD 140.
“We realized we had a real chance,” he explains.

To register the record, it was necessary to prove the price and justify it. “You can’t just make a cup of coffee and say it costs a million. We provided all the required proof — purchase receipts, auction results, reports from the point-of-sale system confirming real sales, and statements from independent witnesses.”

A Coincidence That Became Destiny

The record attempt was scheduled for August. It coincided with an important event — the annual Panamanian auction.
“I suggested we wait for the results. And indeed, the Esmeralda farm won in three categories and set a new record — about USD 30,000 per pound. It was perfect confirmation of the coffee’s value. We set the date — September 13.

That day, an official inspector arrived at our café. Everything took place under the supervision of two independent witnesses. Each detail was checked, every receipt confirmed. After the process, the inspector handed us the world record certificate. It was a historic moment for the entire team.”

Dubai on the Coffee Map of the World

“Following the event, we were honored to receive congratulations from Mr. Khalid Al Mulla., Chairman of the Specialty Coffee Association of the UAE,” Anatoly recalls. “He congratulated us and said this achievement was not only for our brand but for all of Dubai. The city officially entered the history of the global coffee industry.”

After that, dozens of media outlets wrote about Roasters Specialty Coffee House, and interest in Esmeralda increased dramatically.
“We were officially allowed to use the Guinness logo for six months — a rare right, since it’s a registered trademark. We placed it on our packaging, displayed certificates in all our branches. The result was enormous: brand awareness grew, guest traffic increased, and Esmeralda sales rose. People came specifically to try ‘the coffee from the Guinness Book.’”

Impact on the Team and the Industry

“For us, it wasn’t just a marketing success,” notes Gorbunov. “It changed the atmosphere inside the company. People felt proud and motivated. We started receiving many applications from those who wanted to train with us. We have a strong training program and our own academy, where baristas receive professional education.

We also organize internal competitions to discover new talents. It motivates the team and strengthens our collective spirit.”

The Pursuit of Perfection Continues

“We are not stopping with Esmeralda. Our menu already includes exclusive varieties — Colombia Wush Wush and Tutti Frutti. We are negotiating with a Japanese company that owns farms in Costa Rica, one of which has received the Cup of Excellence title.

We regularly buy coffee from Yemen and keep track of Jamaica Blue Mountain, one of the rarest coffees in the world — about 95 percent of Jamaica’s harvest goes to Japan. Our goal is to always have this coffee available in our cafés.”

“We also plan to participate in future auctions in Panama and Yemen, as well as those to be held in January during the World of Coffee Dubai exhibition,” he adds.

From Dubai to the World

Today, the network has nine operating branches in Dubai, and the tenth will open at Dubai Hills next week. By the end of the year, Roasters plans to open twelve cafés in total.
“We are preparing to expand into Abu Dhabi, Hong Kong, and London, and we see Saudi Arabia as a promising franchise market. We want Roasters to become a symbol of quality, innovation, and passion for coffee at the international level,” concludes Anatoly Gorbunov.