The Tala Blog
Featured Article
Coffee Varietals Explained
The cup you drank this morning had a lineage. It came from a specific plant, with a genetic history, grown at an elevation, selected by the farmer for particular reasons. And almost none of that appears on the label. The varietal of a given coffee is an entrance into the story of that lineage.
Mastering Milk Steaming: The Art and Science of Perfect Coffee
As a barista, there’s a lot more to making a great cup of coffee than just pulling an espresso shot. One of the most crucial yet often overlooked aspects is steaming milk to perfection.
Tala-To-Go: Chicago Botanic Garden
This past weekend, we started our Mother’s Day celebration early by catching the flowers in their spring bloom at the Chicago Botanic Gardens — and of course, the day always kicks off with a little coffee.
“What’s a Gibraltar?” — A Tale of Two Names
It happens at least once a week.
Someone points to our menu, eyebrows raised. “What’s a Gibraltar?” they ask, half-whispering like they’re worried it’s a secret club they weren’t invited to.
Let’s start with this: a Gibraltar is just another name for a Cortado at Tala
Grounds For Your Garden
Your morning coffee can do much more than just energize you—it can give your garden a boost too. From backyard pots to larger agricultural applications, coffee grounds are an eco-friendly addition to any soil system.
Nano Genji #12 - Agaro, Ethiopia
There are coffees that are simply enjoyable—and then there are coffees like Nano Genji #12—a coffee that provides an experience. Available in a very limited release of just 250 pounds, this coffee is one that you’ll want to experience while you can.
Party Planning Tips
Over the past several years, I’ve become the go-to party planner for most birthdays, engagement parties, baby showers, etc. that happen in our friend group. I’m here to share some of my top tips for making party planning fun, easy, and successful!
Tala Food Features
As of October 9th at Libertyville, and for the entirety of Winnetka’s existence, we’ve had six distinct food items on our menu, each filled with great flavors and good protein. The menu came together with the efforts of our amazing production team, as well as a Lake Zurich vendor called Zelda’s Sandwich Joint. Whether you’re planning on hanging out in the cafe for a while (and concerned about over-caffeinating) or needing a bit of grab-and-go fuel, these quick and delicious meals are definitely worth checking out.
Fazenda Boa Vista - Minas Gerais, Brazil
We are thrilled to introduce our first-ever, sweet, and beautiful coffee from Brazil! Fazenda Boa Vista, a flourishing farm nestled in the rolling hills of Ibiraci, Minas Gerais, has proven its vibrant coffee to be a force to be reckoned with among its competition across the country.
Drink & Book Pairings
Spring has officially sprung in the Midwest! While the spring equinox brings about sunnier weather and longer days, it also signals the rotation of our seasonal menu at Tala! There’s no better way to celebrate spring than with a refreshing drink in hand and a great book by your side.