As you might expect, the best way to enjoy a cup of coffee (or espresso) is at Jiva Java Cafe. We made sure that we have high-quality equipment, effective filters and time-tested practices to produce the best coffee drink possible. We also recognize that it is not always feasible to go out for a nice cup and sometimes you need to satisfy your craving at home. Here are a few things to consider for your home coffee experience.
- The roast – choose the roast that best suits your taste. Lighter roasts have more nuance and subtlety and darker roasts have more intense flavor.
- Freshness – by buying locally roasted beans, it is easier to ensure that the beans have not been sitting around. Freshly roasted coffee is dramatically better than the alternative. That is why we use Santa Mama at the cafe and you can purchase the beans directly from us or from the roaster in Delaware Water Gap.
- The grind – if possible grind it at home. As soon as you ‘crack’ the bean, you accelerate the rate at which the flavor escapes. If you must pre-grind the coffee, try to limit how much you purchase. If you can afford it, purchase a burr grinder. The Baratza Encore ($150) is a great option.
- The brew – You don’t need a $2,000 espresso machine to enjoy a good cup of coffee. Have you tried a Moka pot? Sometimes called a stove top espresso. You can purchase a single cup pot (2oz) of the original Italian manufacturer, Bialetti ($24). It is small, but potent and they do sell larger versions. Pour overs can also be an affordable option that creates a flavorful cup.
It is difficult to replicate the coffee experience that you have at your local cafe, but that doesn’t mean that the coffee you drink at home should feel like a chore and you can get pretty close if you pay attention to the details.