This blog aims to equip you with the skills to understand troubleshooting and dialing in your pour-overs simply by taste. 

We are beyond thrilled to welcome back Finca Angamaza, a coffee that completely stole our hearts last year and has somehow returned even sweeter, richer, and more vibrant than before.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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, nestled in the highlands of El Salvador, is a standout farm that has gained recognition for its dedication to cultivating exceptional coffee.