No decaf cafes

macchiatome

Hi Guys,

I'm setting up an espresso bar, doing a house blend and a rotating single origin so two grinders. My roaster has advised that when it comes to decaf, either get a third grinder or don't do decaf at all, which I agree with.

I am edging towards not doing decaf at all but I'd like to know how many of you out there don't offer decaf at your cafes. General thoughts on this.

The cost of the third grinder is an issue but not my main one. Basically I don't want to come across pretensions to customers but I know I won't do enough volume to justify a kilo bag of beans before they go out of their premium use before date. So it all comes down to quality.

Thanks

Lwowiak

If you are going to sell decaf coffee, then SELL it. Advertise it to your customers, put it into everyone's face that you have a top quality decaf. Simply adding decaf as an option on your menu will not guarantee sales. Plenty of people would like a second coffee, but opt out due to excessive caffeine intact. A decaf fits the bill nicely, but it has to be good. As to the cost of a decaf grinder, it is pretty cheap. Plenty of 2nd hand Gino Rossi's  can be easily picked up for around $300. Buy decaf in 1kg bags, then split it into smaller bags and vacuum seal them to keep fresh. Use as required. Give out freebies as tasters, and you will be surprised at the response. Good luck with your venture.