The Tala Blog
Featured Article
The Return of the Baklava Latte
It started as an experiment, and now it’s the drink our regulars refuse to let us take off the seasonal menu. The beloved Baklava Latte was formerly an exclusive drink at our Libertyville café, but it was met with such rave reviews that we knew it needed a semi-permanent spot on the seasonal menu at all of our cafes.
Barista Beats: Highwood Cafe Playlists
When you walk into Tala, the first thing you notice is the atmosphere: the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee, the soft hum of conversations, and the comforting hiss of the espresso machine. But there’s another key ingredient to our cafe’s vibe—the music. The playlists you hear are handpicked by our baristas, adding a personal touch to your Tala experience. Ever wonder what they’re queuing up while they’re behind the bar? Let’s dive into our Highwood baristas’ favorite tracks and discover the sounds that fuel their shifts.
Going Green
Matcha has become an internet sensation over the last decade due to its photo-worthy beauty, unique flavor, and plethora of health benefits. But there’s much more than meets the eye when it comes to this tasty drink.
Brewing Romance
For Marissa and Zak, coffee isn’t just part of their daily routine; it’s where their love story began. Marissa, a barista at our Libertyville cafe, and Zak, a member of our production team, have spent countless hours together in cafes, both at work and in their free time.
Tala Valentine’s Day Guide
So, you forgot Valentine’s Day. Or maybe you didn’t forget, you were just waiting for divine inspiration (or for the caffeine to kick in). Either way, we’ve got you covered. If coffee is your Valentine’s love language, like ours, you’re in the right place. Luckily for you, we’ve got some unique ideas to turn your last-minute scramble into a perfectly brewed romantic gesture.
Mauricio Salaverria: Ahuachapan, El Salvador
Mauricio Salaverria has built a reputation for producing some of the most vibrant and beautifully balanced coffees in El Salvador, and this latest natural-processed lot is no exception.
Winter Drink Menu 2025
Saying goodbye to the holiday drinks is made much easier once you get a taste of what the winter drink menu holds. These warm flavors almost make you forget how cold it is. Some of our most intricate and complicated drinks of the year are featured on this menu. The colder indoor energy of the winter seems to invite the tinkering and tweaking for these delicious concoctions you’ll find here. Read about each below and flag the tasty drink for your next visit!
Finca Los Naranjos: Ahuachapan, El Salvador
Finca Los Naranjos, nestled in the highlands of El Salvador, is a standout farm that has gained recognition for its dedication to cultivating exceptional coffee.
The Ultimate Guide to Creating a Christmas Cookie Box
Two years ago, I ventured into this tradition for the first time, and while I was overwhelmed and exhausted, it became a highlight of my holiday season. In this post, I’ll share tips to make your cookie box journey smoother, more organized, and full of cheer, along with a couple of recipes inspired by Tala’s signature flavors.
Tala-To-Go: A Cozy Christmas Adventure
Join us with ‘Tala To-Go” as we take our coffee beyond the café and into the heart of our local communities. Whether it’s a festival, a neighborhood market, or popular spot, we’re there with a cup in hand, discovering what makes each area around our cafes unique.