Recently, online rumors claimed that Jay Chou had opened a coffee shop named “Love Before BC” in Beijing’s Sanlitun area, attracting a large number of fans to pay homage. However, the truth is that the shop is not operated by Jay Chou himself but is part of the celebrity IP base created by Superstar Legends. Jay Chou only appeared to support his wife Kunling’s clothing pop-up store. This article will uncover the truth behind the incident, analyze the pricing strategy and market response of the coffee shop, and help readers understand the current state of the Sanlitun coffee district and the actual impact of celebrity influence. [more…]

This summer, Luckin Coffee ventured into the iced beverage market with its “Light Coffee Lemon Tea,” collaborating with a game to launch a 24oz oversized cup featuring Guangdong perfume lemon and a low-caffeine formula. However, behind the product’s popularity, consumers have frequently encountered issues where the wrong tea base (single-origin/ jasmine) was used, leading to questions raised by the color differences between brownish-yellow and light green final products. This article analyzes the differences in characteristics between the two tea bases, explores common causes of quality control problems, and offers identification tips and communication advice to help you avoid pitfalls and enjoy the correct flavor. [more…]

After being impacted by the El Niño phenomenon, Peru’s coffee industry is steadily recovering. The latest data indicates that both coffee production and export volumes are expected to rise in the 2024/25 season, with production projected to climb to 4.22 million bags and exports increasing to 4.07 million bags. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the reasons behind the production rebound, the distribution of major export markets, and how the progress of the Chancay Port project is influencing China-Peru coffee trade, helping readers stay updated on the latest developments and potential of Peruvian coffee. [more…]

Blurry latte art patterns and excessive spreading often trouble baristas and coffee enthusiasts. In reality, this issue isn't just about technique — the condition of the milk foam, the inherent qualities of the milk and coffee beans, and moisture control during the steaming process all play crucial roles. This article delves into the layering of milk foam and milk, the differences in bean-milk characteristics, and how steam moisture content affects latte art outcomes, while also offering practical improvement tips to help you create sharp-lined, well-defined professional-grade designs. [more…]

An in-depth exploration of two emerging sub-regions within Ethiopia’s Yirgacheffe—Rumudamo in Agaro and Hamasho in Bensa. We analyze their geographical conditions, mill backgrounds, and the unique flavor profiles revealed in cupping sessions. From citrus and apple to berries and grapes, discover how these top-tier beans stand out in global COE competitions and earn the favor of specialty roasters. [more…]

Have you noticed that the crema of your freshly extracted espresso looks thick but feels hard like solidified butter, lacking the smooth and silky flow it should have? This not only affects the taste but can also make latte art more difficult. This article delves into the common reasons behind hardened espresso crema, including leaving it sitting for too long after extraction, improper selection of coffee beans or grind size, and provides practical solutions to help you master the optimal usage timing and brew delicious, smooth milk coffee. [more…]

Some Luckin outlets, due to the lack of a cash register system, require employees to manually collect cash and place orders on customers’ behalf. This leads to issues such as inconvenient change handling, counterfeit currency risks, and customers being unable to access promotions. This article delves into the dual impact of this practice on both employees and customers, and explores how the brand can optimize the cash payment process to improve overall service efficiency. [more…]

Recently, consumers discovered small stones mixed in with Manner coffee beans. While no damage was caused to the grinder, it sparked discussions about the brand’s screening process. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the complete screening procedure from green beans to roasted beans, explores the potential hazards of small stones to grinders, and offers practical bean inspection tips before pour over brewing to help coffee enthusiasts avoid potential risks. [more…]

An in-depth exploration of the geographical advantages and coffee characteristics of Kenya’s Kirinyaga region, an analysis of the quality control process of the renowned exporter DORMANS, and a detailed explanation of Kenya’s official and industry coffee grading systems. The article concludes with actual cupping records, helping you understand the flavor profile of this washed coffee—highlighting blackberry, citrus, and cherry tomato notes. It serves as a practical reference for selecting Kenyan beans. [more…]

The latest May report from the International Coffee Organization reveals global coffee supply and demand dynamics, with production expected to increase by 5.8% year-on-year to 178 million bags, while consumption demand is also growing by 2.2%. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the main factors driving price fluctuations, export performance in major producing regions, and the market signals behind inventory changes, helping readers grasp the latest trends and practical insights in the coffee market. [more…]

The One-Flow Dragon Tornado Pour Over combines traditional One-Flow techniques with a vortex pouring method. By using high water temperature, fine grind size, and a unique swirling technique, it extracts richer and more full-bodied coffee flavors. This guide details the steps of the method, key parameter settings, compares it with the standard One-Flow technique, and analyzes which types of coffee beans are suitable or not suitable—helping you master this advanced pour over skill. [more…]

Lemon zest slice is an Italian-style dessert that can be easily made with just lemon slices, coffee powder, and sugar. It gained widespread popularity in Taiwan after being featured on the variety show "Kangxi Lai Le," and is surrounded by anecdotes linked to the Italian Mafia. This article will take you through the historical background of citrus cultivation on Sicily, explore the origins of this dessert, and share practical preparation tips — including how to select lemons, recommended coffee bean roast levels, sugar type choices, and advanced techniques such as using a blowtorch for caramelizing and browning. [more…]

Brewing water has a profound impact on coffee flavor and equipment lifespan. Using the wrong water quality can not only flatten the coffee’s complexity but also accelerate scale buildup and damage to machines. This article delves into the relationship between PPM and water hardness, explains why espresso machines should not use tap water directly, and provides a practical DIY water recipe using baking soda and magnesium sulfate, along with pour over flavor comparison tests, to help coffee enthusiasts master essential techniques. [more…]

The Brazilian government has recently adjusted the PIS-Cofins tax credit policy to plug loopholes and reduce fiscal deficits, but this has put pressure on major agricultural exporters—including coffee producers—facing sharp revenue declines. The new regulations may drive up global coffee prices, a development that both enthusiasts and industry players should closely monitor. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the policy background, industry impact, and market trends. [more…]

Water pouring techniques in pour over coffee can be tricky for beginners, but a sprinkler dripper serves as an auxiliary tool that helps achieve even water distribution and improves extraction. This article provides a detailed introduction to the correct usage of such tools, including how to adjust water flow intensity, key points to prevent clogging, and practical tips for using a stirring stick—all to help you stabilize your brewing quality. [more…]

The results of the 2024 Costa Rica Cup of Excellence (COE) have been announced, with Geisha continuing to dominate, but a rare variety called San Roque once again stood out. First introduced in 2018 and well-received since then, this variety has shone brightly in the Central Valley region thanks to its unique lineage and high-altitude adaptability. This article delves into the discovery of San Roque, its variety characteristics, and its flavor performance in the COE competition. [more…]

Luckin Coffee has opened Zhejiang’s first flagship store next to Ningbo Tianyi Square, featuring a 400-square-meter black-and-gold two-story design that rivals its Xiamen flagship. At the opening, a large number of “staff” in blue uniforms guiding guests to try out the gashapon machines led to speculation about an expanded barista team—only for it to be revealed that the company’s top management had dressed up as customer service staff. This article analyzes the interior highlights and equipment setup of this flagship store, which is second in size only to the one in Xiamen, and reveals key on-site observations regarding whether the automatic pour over machine made an appearance. [more…]

KFC’s classic Iced Cappuccino has made a comeback amid eager anticipation from fans, but many long-time customers have been left deeply disappointed. This iconic beverage, which accompanied the growth of many, was quietly taken off the menu in May this year, only to return nationwide with a new look and limited-time promotions. However, not only has the appearance and taste of the new version changed significantly, but it has also sparked widespread discussion about how “the flavor is different.” This article will take an in-depth look at the details of the formula adjustments, changes in cup sizes, and market feedback to help you understand the story behind this nostalgic drink. [more…]

Have you ever seen the label “100% Arabica coffee beans” at a chain coffee shop? This phrase is often used as a symbol of high quality, but do you know what it really means? This article takes an in-depth look at the differences between the two major coffee varieties—Arabica and Robusta—from plant classification and historical background to commercial use, helping you understand the actual value of “100% Arabica” and debunking common misconceptions. [more…]

Want to make milk coffee at home with a texture close to a latte? In fact, you can adjust the brewing parameters of your pour over coffee to produce a higher-concentration pour over base, then pair it with an appropriate amount of milk for a flavor that rivals a professional latte. This article explains in detail how to create a rich and mellow pour over milk coffee by adjusting the coffee-to-water ratio, grind size, water temperature, and stirring techniques, and recommends medium-to-dark roasted beans that pair well with milk, so you can easily enjoy a professional-level coffee experience. [more…]