Locals Coffee Roasters

Locals Coffee Roasters shows how a neighbourhood café can develop into an inspiring example for the Dutch coffee sector. The brand started in 2017 in the Amsterdam neighbourhood De Pijp and now has three branches. The atmosphere remains homely, and the craftsmanship improves with every roast. This short journey demonstrates how commitment to quality, sustainability and community go hand in hand.

Founder Luciano Benjamin discovered a corner property on the Eerste Jacob van Campenstraat in 2017. The idea of offering only coffee changed quickly when it turned out the space had a kitchen and an alcohol license. In 2018 the first venue opened, designed by interior designer Anne Claus and featuring a striking golden bar. The all-day brunch concept proved popular, leading to two additional locations and a coffee-to-go point within a few years.

The name Locals emphasises the sense of community. Staff remember regulars by name and make visitors feel 'at home away from home'. That human approach forms the core of the growth: good coffee, pleasant dishes and an open neighbourhood character attract both Amsterdammers and travellers.

At the heart of the roastery sits a Loring S35 Kestrel, an energy-efficient smart roaster with an integrated afterburner. This machine reduces emissions and saves fuel, while the temperature is monitored to the exact degree. Each batch is cupped to ensure the desired flavour.

- Energy-efficient Loring S35
- Organic, fair-trade beans
Every roast is carefully logged and tested.

The house blend No. 27 combines Brazilian body with Ethiopian brightness. Flavor notes of chocolate, nuts and subtle fruit make the espresso popular both solo and in milk drinks. All components are 100% organic, so taste pleasure and ethics come together.

In addition to the blend, limited editions appear regularly. A recent example is the Colombian Pink Bourbon, naturally fermented and roasted for filter coffee. Collaborations with Manhattan Coffee Roasters also bring rotating guest coffees that surprise enthusiasts.

No. 27: full-bodied, creamy, chocolatey
Pink Bourbon: floral, tropical fruit
Guest filter coffees: seasonal variety

Locals opts for direct trade and fair prices. Farmers receive higher compensation, while transparency promotes quality. Many beans are grown organically, with attention to soil health and biodiversity.

Sustainable thinking does not stop at the bean. Packaging is recyclable or compostable and reusable Locals × Fellow cups encourage waste reduction. In this way every step, from plantation to packaging, is viewed through a green lens.

Each location functions as a neighborhood hub. Large windows, a sunny terrace and several seating areas invite customers to stay longer. Regular pop-up dinners, cupping sessions and latte-art competitions make coffee approachable and fun.

Baristas enjoy sharing their knowledge. A short explanation about grind size or origin is part of the service. This helps appreciation for specialty coffee grow without barriers. Inclusivity is central; Locals is mentioned in guides to Black-owned cafés and attracts a diverse audience.

Over the coming years Locals will focus on further expansion inside and outside Amsterdam. New café concepts will remain true to the motto "United by Taste", but bring the gold-colored bar and brunch formula to new neighborhoods.

- More single-origins and seasonal blends
- Subscription service for home baristas
- Carbon-neutral roasting targets
- Educational workshops and latte-art throwdowns

Locals Coffee Roasters proves that passion for quality, care for people and the environment, and an open neighborhood mentality reinforce each other. From the Loring S35 to the warm greeting on arrival, everything revolves around tasteful connection. Those who follow the coffee sector can view Locals as a lively example of how small-scale ambition creates big impact.