Cafezal Specialty Coffee
Cafezal Specialty Coffee: An Extraordinary Journey Through the World of Coffee
"Un viaggio straordinario nel mondo del caffè" — this is the essence of Cafezal Specialty Coffee. The name "Cafezal," which translates from Portuguese to mean "coffee plantation," pays homage to Brazil, the world's largest coffee producer. Cafezal invites coffee enthusiasts on a journey through flavors, sustainability, and craftsmanship, one cup at a time.
The story of Cafezal begins with its founder and CEO, Carlos Bitencourt, whose passion for high-quality coffee has driven the brand's growth. Originally from Brazil, Carlos pursued a career as an engineering consultant in the UK and Germany before settling in Milan to fully dedicate himself to his lifelong love for coffee. Since 2012, he has been exploring the coffee industry, visiting plantations in Brazil in 2013, and eventually launching Cafezal’s first roasted batch in 2017.
In 2018, Cafezal took its first major step forward by opening its flagship store at Via Solferino 27 in the vibrant Brera district of Milan. This marked the beginning of their mission to bring exceptional specialty coffee and unparalleled service to the community, all within a thoughtfully designed space that balances aesthetics with functionality. It also solidified Cafezal as Milan's first specialty coffee roastery.
By 2022, the brand reached another milestone with the launch of the Coffee Hub , a unique 450-square-meter destination located at Viale Premuda 14 in central Milan. More than just a café, the Coffee Hub combines a coffee shop, roastery, kitchen, academy, laboratory, coworking area, and members' club into one cohesive experience. As one of Europe's most innovative spaces dedicated to coffee culture, it serves as a temple for coffee lovers worldwide.
In 2023, Cafezal unveiled its third location—a historic boutique that preserves the charm of the 1910s while seamlessly integrating modern design elements reflective of the brand's DNA. This latest addition encapsulates the company's journey, blending tradition with innovation and showcasing how far they have come since their inception.
Looking ahead, Cafezal remains committed to expanding its vision, venturing into new territories, offering a broader range of products, and strengthening ties with both local communities and global industries. With a focus on sustainable practices and collaboration with like-minded partners, the company aims to establish itself as a leading force in the modern coffeehouse landscape and the broader coffee business ecosystem.
For Cafezal, the future holds exciting opportunities in serving the HoReCa (Hotel, Restaurant, Café) distribution channels with premium coffee offerings. By working alongside businesses that share their values, they aim to create a more sustainable and inclusive industry. From its roots as a passionate startup to becoming a trailblazer in specialty coffee, Cafezal continues to redefine what it means to craft and enjoy truly exceptional coffee.
