The pouring method is one of the key factors that influence flavor extraction in pour over coffee. Among various techniques, the three-stage pouring method stands out due to its simplicity and wide applicability, making it the top choice for many coffee beginners and professional shops. This article will take an in-depth look at the actual operation steps of the three-stage pour, the distribution of coffee-to-water ratio, water flow control techniques, and explain which roast levels of coffee beans it is suitable for. We’ll also cover how to adjust water temperature and grind size according to the coffee variety, helping you brew more consistently balanced and layered coffee. [more…]

Howard Schultz, the legendary founder of Starbucks, has officially announced that he will never return as CEO. Laxman Narasimhan, former CEO of Reckitt, will take the helm, with the transition taking effect on October 1. How will the new leader reverse the decline in sales in the Chinese market and tackle rising global costs? This article analyzes the strategic layout and market challenges behind Starbucks' leadership handover. [more…]

Post Office Coffee, a subsidiary of China Post, plans to expand to 100 stores by the end of the year, sourcing 100% of its coffee beans from Yunnan. Leveraging the extensive postal network, it is targeting both first- and second-tier cities as well as lower-tier markets. This article analyzes its strategy—from the first store to rapid expansion—and explores how the “coffee + post office” model creates differentiated competitiveness in a fiercely competitive market through pricing tiers, cultural design, and supply chain layout. [more…]

The parent company of the educational brand Yuanfudao has pivoted to the coffee industry. Its brand Grid Coffee opened its first store at Beijing’s Wangfujing Yintai in88, focusing on two main product lines: classic and pour over. Prices range from 25 to 30 yuan, and during the trial period, the pour over offerings sold over 800 cups. This article provides an in-depth analysis of its product strategy, competitive landscape, and market challenges, helping readers understand how a new brand can find a breakthrough in the highly competitive specialty coffee market. [more…]

After using an espresso machine for a while, you may notice slower extraction flow rates or unusual flavors. A common cause is the buildup of coffee residue inside the group head. This guide details the correct steps for backflushing with water and with cleaning tablets, explains when to perform a backflush, how many times is sufficient, and provides daily maintenance advice. Mastering these techniques can effectively maintain extraction stability and prevent off-flavors that compromise coffee quality. [more…]

After the conclusion of the 2022 Best of Panama (BOP) competition for green coffee beans, the Geisha from the Elida Estate of the Lamastus family once again shocked the market. A mere 7-pound lot of honey-processed beans was sold at an astronomical price of $6,034 per pound, with a total value exceeding $42,000, setting a new global record for the most expensive coffee. This article delves into the origin, processing method, and auction details of this top-tier Geisha, and shares expert recommendations to help you understand how to fully bring out its flavors using suitable pour over parameters. [more…]

Choosing the right grind size for pour over coffee is key to unlocking flavor and optimizing extraction efficiency. This article dives deep into three practical methods—visual estimation, grind setting reference, and sieve calibration—to help you determine grind coarseness. It also introduces the concept of “particle size distribution” to help you understand how uniformity in coffee grounds affects extraction. With practical operation tips and common mistake alerts, you’ll quickly find the grind settings that suit your pour over style. [more…]

With Starbucks completely withdrawing from the Russian market, "Star Coffee," which took over its former 130 stores, has not only swiftly resumed operations in Russia but also launched an international expansion plan. This article delves into how Star Coffee has evolved from a Russian domestic brand into a coffee chain with global ambitions, the strategic considerations behind choosing Armenia as its first overseas location, and its expansion blueprint targeting markets in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe where Starbucks is absent. [more…]

Many coffee enthusiasts wonder whether light-roasted beans can be used to make espresso. This guide provides a comprehensive analysis of the key operational variables and actual flavor profiles. Starting with common extraction issues, it delves into three core adjustment techniques—grind size, coffee dose, and brewing pressure—and illustrates the unique taste characteristics of light roast espresso through practical test cases of beans from different regions, helping readers evaluate whether this atypical combination is worth trying. [more…]

The ideal concentration of 1.15%-1.35% and extraction rate of 18%-22% in the Golden Cup extraction theory serve as foundational references for many pour over coffee enthusiasts. But did you know this set of data actually originates from the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA), not the current SCA? Moreover, opinions on the "ideal concentration" vary considerably among coffee associations in Europe and America. This article takes you through the historical background, evolution of standards, sensory differences, and actual flavor performance to deeply analyze the science and [more…]

Nayuki’s Tea, once a dominant player in new-style tea drinks, saw its revenue decline and posted a loss of 249 million yuan in the first half of 2022. Faced with intense market competition and the impact of the pandemic, the brand chose to diversify by investing in the coffee brand AOKKA in search of a breakthrough. Is the collective move by new tea drink brands into coffee a survival strategy or an emerging trend? This article analyzes highlights from Nayuki’s financial report, its brand transformation moves, and helps you understand the potential and challenges in the coffee market. [more…]

In recent years, the moka pot has quietly gained popularity among coffee enthusiasts. This classic Italian brewing device, originating in 1933, is beloved for its simple operation, affordable price, and ability to produce espresso with rich crema. It has become the go-to choice for many home users just starting out. This article will delve into the reasons behind the moka pot’s popularity and break down usage essentials step by step—from the advantages of the device, bean selection, grind size, to the full extraction process. We’ll also provide practical tips on adding fresh milk, so you can brew richly flavored coffee at home. [more…]

In 2022, Sasa Sestic, the 2015 WBC espresso champion, returned to the competition stage after seven years. This time, he used an experimental batch of Green Tip Geisha from Panama’s Iris Estate, paired with his exclusive Paragon brewing method and ice stone aroma-locking technique, to win the亚军 (runner-up) at the Australian Coffee Brewing Championship. This article delves into his ultra-long 90-hour CO₂ immersion process, step-by-step pouring parameters (93°C → 8 [more…]

In recent years, more and more café owners have been approached by so-called "café-visiting influencers" who request free coffee under the guise of "promotion in exchange," or even threaten negative reviews. What was once seen as a win-win collaboration is gradually turning into a major concern for business owners. This article delves into the origins of "coffee exchanges," the potential risks faced by cafés, and shares practical advice on building genuine word-of-mouth and sustainable operations. [more…]

Want to let your espresso bloom with the delicate fragrance of osmanthus? This article presents a practical test where dried osmanthus flowers were placed on the surface of the coffee puck, at the bottom, and mixed with the coffee grounds in three different ways. We analyze extraction stability and flavor performance. From parameter settings and brew ratios to techniques for avoiding channeling, we guide you to find the optimal espresso method for highlighting osmanthus aroma, and explain why the flavor results differ significantly between lattes and Americanos. [more…]

A retro-style coffee menu that went viral online sparked discussion due to its high-priced iced americano and low-priced Blue Mountain coffee. Beyond the price discrepancy, it also touches on the authentic standards of Blue Mountain coffee, the characteristics of Yunnan small-grain coffee, and the flavor profiles of renowned origins such as Costa Rica. This article will delve into the truths behind these coffees, helping readers discern authenticity and understand the unique flavors and brewing essentials of each origin. [more…]

This hands-on review takes you deep into ten popular coffee machine and grinder building block models—from the Rocket R58 to the EK43—providing a detailed analysis of their design features, assembly difficulty, and how closely they resemble the real equipment. It’s not only perfect for coffee enthusiasts but also gives insight into how well domestic building blocks handle fine details and restoration accuracy, along with practical assembly tips. [more…]

Recently, Starbucks has been facing the challenge of rising employee turnover. The proportion of new baristas quitting within three months has reached as high as 25%, far exceeding the 10% seen before the pandemic. Industry analysis points out that the complicated procedures for making cold drinks are one of the main contributing factors. This article takes an in-depth look at the highly complex operations involved in Starbucks’ cold drink preparation, explores the balance between staff workload and store efficiency, and introduces the measures the brand is taking to improve the current situation. [more…]

Faced with rising labor costs in South Korea and intense competition from food delivery platforms, McDonald’s has once again initiated the sale of its Korean operations. The U.S. fast-food giant is listing 100% of its Korean subsidiary’s shares and management rights, with an estimated valuation of around KRW 500 billion (approximately TWD 11.2 billion), and plans to hold the first round of bidding in October. This article analyzes the key reasons behind McDonald’s Korea’s continued losses, the potential types of buyers in this sale, and highlights of the store assets involved. [more…]

From dorm-room DIY to café bestsellers, creative drinks like Saturn Coffee and Waterfall Americano have gone viral thanks to online experimentation and social sharing. These coffees require no professional skills but captivate with their visuals, becoming a low-cost coffee option for Gen Z. This article explores how these viral hits were born and shares practical tips and precautions. [more…]