The Tala Blog
Featured Article
The Case for a Third Place
In a world that increasingly happens behind a screen, third places give us a reason to slow down, step outside, and simply be around other people. Marissa makes the case for coffee shops as modern third places — spaces where small, everyday interactions can foster connection and community.
A Beginner’s Guide To Coffee Harvesting Seaons
Just like any other fruit, coffee is seasonal. There are portions of the year that coffee is being cultivated and another portion when coffee cherries are ripe for picking. Lucky for us, coffee is grown in many different countries around the world. Each country has a different harvest season, with some countries having multiple harvests per year.
What does Tala Mean?
This is one of our most common FAQs. If you’ve ever asked someone at Tala this question, they may have answered with “It means sweet, and beautiful,” which is true, but it isn’t the full story. Let’s explore the full meaning and thought behind our name: Tala Coffee Roasters.
Moms of Tala
As we approach Mother’s Day, we’re taking a moment to celebrate the incredible moms and motherly figures who make Tala feel like home. Whether they're raising little ones, offering a listening ear, or simply bringing kindness and strength to every shift, these women embody the heart of motherhood in all its forms.
La Victoria: Huila, Colombia
Each harvest season brings with it a rush of excitement as fresh crop samples roll in, but this year, our anticipation has reached new heights—especially for coffees coming out of Colombia.
Tala Libertyville’s Unit B Cupcakes
If you’ve ever had the privilege of tasting the Unit B latte, then you know that it can only be described as a warm, comforting hug. With that being said, there is no better treat to make a loved one than these cupcakes, for any and every occasion and celebration.
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.