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. 

Community Mia Rhee Community Mia Rhee

The History of Tala Cyclists

Tala Coffee Roasters, in addition to specialty coffee, often hosts a line of cyclists snaking their way through the cafe on weekdays and weekends–opting for more traditional fare like the single shot or Gibraltar. The history between Tala and the cycling community runs deep, extending back to when the Highwood cafe first opened its doors in 2018, and has expanded ever since.

Read More
Technical Tala Coffee Roasters Technical Tala Coffee Roasters

Kayon Mountain Farm: Guji, Colombia

It’s been a while since we’ve had an African coffee on our shelves, and we couldn’t be more excited to bring one back, especially this one. Kayon Mountain Farm is no stranger to our lineup, and for good reason. Quite possibly our most-loved coffee of the year, this naturally processed lot from Guji, Ethiopia, is back for another round.

Read More
Community Mel Kreppein Community Mel Kreppein

Libertyvilles 2nd Birthday Recap

This past Memorial Day weekend, here at Libertyville, we celebrated our second birthday! Two Septembers ago, the cafe at the roastery opened its doors for the first time, bringing longtime Tala fans a glimpse into the process, as well as another cafe to love.

Read More
News, Community Tala Coffee Roasters News, Community Tala Coffee Roasters

Libertyville Turns Two!

We’re celebrating TWO YEARS at our Libertyville Cafe this week! To mark this occasion, we’re inviting you to comment below with your favorite memory at the Libertyville Cafe for your chance to win a $100 cafe gift card.

Read More
News Mike Michalak News Mike Michalak

Global Matcha Shortage

Matcha has exploded in popularity, thanks to social media trends, its striking bright-green color, and the rise of specialty cafes serving it up in lattes, baked goods, and more. But behind the buzz lies a growing challenge: matcha supply simply isn’t keeping up with demand.

Read More
Technical Tala Coffee Roasters Technical Tala Coffee Roasters

La Muralla, Huila: Colombia

Yet another Colombian coffee—and trust us, your taste buds will thank you, and so will your inner flavor adventurer. Meet your new crush: La Muralla, a radiant Pink Bourbon lot bursting with the juicy charm of raspberry pie, the citrus snap of blood orange, and the sparkling refreshment of limeade. It’s not just a coffee—it’s a flavor parade perfectly timed for the dog days of summer.

Read More
Community, Behind the Bar Rachel Severyns Community, Behind the Bar Rachel Severyns

Behind The Bar With Alejandro

Our “Behind The Bar'“ series highlights one of our team members, celebrating their unique contribution to the Tala experience. We believe the connection across the bar can be meaningful and impactful. Our team puts a smile on the faces of so many each day by simply serving delicious beverages and being an authentic presence in each person’s day. Learn more about what makes each person on the Tala Team unique with this personal interview.

Read More
Technical Mike Michalak Technical Mike Michalak

Brewing Tala Outside

I love cowboy coffee. There’s something rugged and romantic about scooping the grounds into boiling water, swirling it around, drinking it straight and a little gritty. I remember seeing my dad making it when I was a kid and I thought it was the coolest thing. But if you’re tired of filtering your coffee with your teeth, or you’re looking to level up from instant coffee, there’s an inexpensive, light, and portable way to bring your favorite Tala coffee with you on your next camping trip.

Read More
Community, Behind the Scenes Marissa Cummings Community, Behind the Scenes Marissa Cummings

Behind The Scenes With Bethany

Our “Behind The Scenes'“ series highlights one of our production team members, celebrating their unique contribution to the Tala experience. We believe the connection behind and across the bar can be meaningful and impactful. Our production team is the glue that holds Tala together, and we wouln’t be who we are without them. Learn more about what makes each person on the Tala Team unique with this personal interview.

Read More

Keep Reading