Prague's specialty roasting scene has grown from a handful of pioneers to a thriving community of artisans. These roasters have developed a distinctive Czech approach to coffee, emphasizing lighter profiles that showcase origin characteristics and direct relationships with producers.
The Czech Roasting Philosophy
Czech specialty roasters have developed a distinctive approach that sets them apart from neighboring coffee cultures. While Austrian and German traditions often favor darker, more developed roasts, Prague's leading roasters typically push toward lighter profiles.
This preference reflects both the global third-wave movement and local innovation. Czech roasters argue that lighter roasting better expresses the unique characteristics of carefully sourced beans, producing complex cups with pronounced acidity and fruit notes.
For visitors accustomed to Italian-style espresso, this approach may require adjustment. Many Prague cafes will happily recommend beans with "stronger roasting profiles" for those who prefer their espresso with milk or simply favor more traditional tastes.
Tasting Tip
When trying Prague's specialty coffee for the first time, consider ordering a pour-over or filter coffee to fully appreciate the lighter roasting style. The extended extraction reveals complexity that might be muted in espresso preparation.
Leading Prague Roasters
Doubleshot
Founded in 2009, Doubleshot has become the flagship of Czech specialty coffee. The company operates multiple venues across Prague and maintains long-term direct trade relationships with producers in Africa and Latin America.
Doubleshot divides their offerings into three flavor profiles, helping customers navigate their extensive selection. Their flagship "Era" espresso blend provides an accessible entry point, while seasonal single-origins showcase their sourcing expertise.
The company takes education seriously, requiring all partner venues to send staff through barista training at their Prague facility. This commitment to quality control ensures consistent experiences across locations.
Notable venues: Muj salek kavy (Karlin), LOKA Masarycka, Misto (Bubenec)
Learn more at their official website.
La Boheme Cafe
Operating since 2005, La Boheme Cafe ranks among Prague's longest-running specialty roasters. The company has built a reputation for reliable quality across both single-origin offerings and carefully crafted espresso blends.
Their roasting approach tends slightly toward the middle of the spectrum - more developed than some newer Czech roasters while still preserving origin characteristics. This positions them well for customers seeking specialty quality without extreme light roasting.
La Boheme supplies numerous Prague cafes and restaurants, making their beans widely accessible across the city.
Grindful Coffee
A newer entrant to the Prague scene, Grindful operates as a true micro-roastery, roasting in small batches just a few times monthly. This approach ensures exceptional freshness but limited availability.
The company focuses exclusively on specialty-grade beans, typically roasting lighter profiles that emphasize origin characteristics. Their limited release model creates anticipation among local enthusiasts.
Grindful represents the next generation of Prague roasters - small-scale, quality-focused, and deeply engaged with sourcing and transparency.
Emerging Roasters
Beyond the established names, Prague's roasting scene continues to expand. Several newer operations have launched in recent years, each contributing their own perspective to Czech coffee culture.
The Miners
While primarily known as a cafe chain, The Miners has developed in-house roasting capabilities that serve their expanding network of Prague locations. Their accessible approach to specialty coffee has introduced many Czechs to lighter roasting styles.
Round Hill Roastery
Though based in the UK, Round Hill maintains a significant presence in Prague through partnerships with local cafes. Their beans appear frequently in specialty establishments, offering another perspective on quality sourcing and roasting.
We're not trying to imitate what others have done. Czech coffee culture is developing its own identity - one that respects tradition while embracing innovation and transparency in sourcing.
Direct Trade and Sourcing
Many Prague roasters emphasize direct trade relationships with coffee producers. This approach goes beyond simple "fair trade" certification to establish long-term partnerships that benefit farmers and ensure quality consistency.
Doubleshot, for example, has maintained relationships with specific farms for over a decade. These partnerships allow roasters to work directly with producers on quality improvements and provide farmers with stable pricing above commodity rates.
For consumers, direct trade sourcing offers transparency about coffee origins and production methods. Many Prague specialty cafes display detailed information about the farms and regions from which their beans originate.
Finding Prague Roasters
Most Prague roasters operate both their own cafes and wholesale programs supplying other establishments. The best way to experience their coffee is often at dedicated roastery cafes, where staff can provide guidance on current offerings.
- Doubleshot cafes: Multiple locations including Karlin, Masarycka, and Bubenec
- The Miners: Growing chain with flagship in Vinohrady
- Specialty shops: Many independent cafes feature rotating roaster selections
Coffee enthusiasts can also purchase beans directly from roasters for home brewing. Most offer online ordering with delivery across the Czech Republic and often internationally.
Prague Coffee Events
The local specialty community organizes regular events including public cuppings, barista competitions, and coffee festivals. These gatherings offer opportunities to meet roasters, taste new offerings, and learn about coffee production and preparation.
The annual Prague Coffee Festival has become a highlight of the Central European coffee calendar, attracting roasters and enthusiasts from across the region. Check local listings for upcoming events during your visit.
For more information about specialty coffee globally, visit resources like Sprudge and the Specialty Coffee Association.