The holiday season becomes official tomorrow with the celebration of Thanksgiving. All of us here at Kaldi's wish you and yours the best as family gatherings occur, stomachs are filled, and deserts are shared with coffee.

We have much to be thankful for - the farmers that grow our coffee, the importers who get it here, our amazing staff of roasters, baristas and technicians, a vibrant and growing St. Louis coffee community - and mostly, you, our customers. Without you, we would not be able to spew knowledge and information onto this blog or share with you little pieces of our life and work that make us happy.

The theme for the year seems to be that of sharing. So, we leave you with this great quick video from our friend across the pond, James Hoffman (2007 World Barista Champ and founder of Square Mile Coffee). This French Press method has been rocking our world lately - so simple and straightforward, born of the cupping table. So please, take this and share it with your guests after dinner tomorrow, or better yet, bring your French Press along to thank your hosts!


Videocast #2 - French Press Technique from James Hoffmann on Vimeo.

Check out James' blog for more great coffee ideas.

Senior BGA Tour: Springfield, Mo.

In an attempt to prove that old stars never fade, two members of Kaldi's senior barista team traveled to Springfield, Mo. yesterday morning.

Joe Marrocco, 28, and Mike Marquard, 25, both former full-time baristas, were well entertained by staff and customers alike at the Spingfield Kaldi's Coffeehouse on Battlefield Rd., as they recalled the old days of pouring monk's head latte art with 44oz. bell pitchers.

Marrocco spent time recalling the days before automatic brewers by setting up a pour-over bar in front of the store's whole bean display and offering single-cup samples of all Kaldi's varietal offerings to customers. Twice he displayed his vast knowledge and experience in the coffee trade by conducting an old-fashioned cupping and tasting coffees processed in ways both old and new. Marrocco had customers and staff taste Organic Mexican Reserva Nayarit coffees now available at all Kaldi's locations. Both washed and natural process selections of this coffee are offered.

Marquard spent most of his time, sporting matching hat and apron, behind the bar showing staff the good ol' grind and dose still used on Kaldi's semi-automatic espresso machines. The staff responded with kindness, and an amazing appetite for Werther's (R) Originals.

By the end of the day Friday, Marrocco and Marquard were running the espresso bar trading high-fives, espresso shots, and a bit too much pride in their former professions.

Look for the Senior BGA Tour coming to a Kaldi's near you.

Marrocco, right
Marquard, left

Looking for that perfect holiday gift for clients, family or friends? Look no further than Kaldi's new gift box!
In stores and online now.