Cafecito

Cafecito is an Amsterdam-based coffee roastery with a passion for Fairtrade, organic beans. Small-batch roasting ensures unmatched freshness, while expert baristas showcase meticulous craft behind every espresso shot. Founded by Mohammed Ali, this high-end concept thrives on ethical sourcing, artisan techniques, and a warm, minimalist ambiance for the perfect coffee experience.

A High-End Coffee Haven in Amsterdam: Cafecito’s Story and Vision

Cafecito took root in Amsterdam on the eve of the COVID-19 pandemic, led by founder Mohammed Ali. Even as lockdowns loomed, a small coffee roastery began serving customers through a takeaway espresso bar, quickly proving that premium-quality beans and craftsmanship could thrive despite challenging times. Within just four months, franchised locations multiplied, signaling strong demand for a high-end concept devoted to authentic coffee artistry.

The Roasting Approach

Every coffee bean at Cafecito receives an individually tailored roasting profile. The brand consistently emphasizes small-batch roasting—only on demand—so customers always encounter freshness that mass-produced coffee can’t match. While single origins vary in flavor intensity, specific roasts cater to espresso brewing. This approach calls for slightly higher temperatures and longer roast times, ensuring balanced sweetness. Quality control happens on-site, and all beans come from Fairtrade and organic sources, reflecting a commitment to both flavor and ethical sourcing.

Signature Blends and Single Origins

A popular choice is Cafecito’s “Blend 002,” a union of beans from Brazil and Rwanda. It delivers a smooth harmony of chocolate, gentle acidity, and fruity sweetness. Single-origin coffees such as Colombia Las Perlitas (washed) offer distinct citrus and spiced notes, while Costa Rica Anaerobic yields vibrant hints of peach and tropical fruit. Filter enthusiasts can explore Ethiopia Keramo’s citrusy, berry-like aroma in a light roast. There is even a Swiss Water–processed decaf that retains a full-bodied, nutty-caramel aftertaste.

Experimentation and Limited Batches

Cafecito is unafraid of creative roasting techniques or unconventional coffee lots. Limited releases often include unique processing methods, such as the Colombia “Grape Soda” micro-lot with carbonic maceration, imparting hints of grape and sweet, candy-like notes. Roasters experiment with small sample batches before unveiling new offerings, fine-tuning temperature and roast duration until each coffee’s most appealing flavors emerge. Such ongoing tests and tasting sessions keep the lineup fresh and enticing.

Distinctive Design and Packaging

Minimalist interiors and clean branding distinguish Cafecito’s physical spaces. Natural materials and calm, open layouts place the spotlight squarely on the espresso machine and on-site roaster. Cubic Mill, the creative agency behind Cafecito’s visual identity, designed minimalistic packaging and storefronts, reflecting core values of craftsmanship and simplicity. Coffee bags feature clear information on origin, roast profile, and flavor notes, a direct style that aligns with the brand’s “pure craft” philosophy.

Commitment to Quality

Only fair-trade, ethically sourced beans go into Cafecito’s roaster, each variety tested in small batches to highlight the finest taste. There is zero compromise on consistency: from green bean selection to expertly prepared cups, the process is managed in-house. Freshness remains paramount through frequent small-batch roasts, ensuring beans never linger on shelves. The brand’s dedication to top-tier standards reinforces its position as a high-end concept.

Skilled Team and Training

Founder Mohammed Ali oversees expansion while roasting master Stean fine-tunes each blend. Highly trained baristas work in open bar areas, showcasing each step of espresso-making. A training center in Leiden provides ongoing lessons for new franchisees and existing staff. Employees focus on gaining a hands-on feel for the roast process, learning to detect the slightest changes in color, aroma, and taste.

Engaging the Coffee Community

Looking Ahead