7 Best Cuban Coffee Brands — Top Picks & Reviews
Introduction
Cuban coffee, often referred to by locals as “cafecito,” isn’t just a beverage; it’s an integral part of the Cuban experience. Punctuating daily life, from the early morning rush to late-night social gatherings, this robust brew holds a special place in the hearts of those who’ve had the pleasure of tasting it. Imagine sitting on a porch in Havana, hearing the distant hum of vintage cars, the chatter of neighbors, and then being handed a small cup filled with a sweet, frothy, aromatic coffee. That’s the essence of Cuban coffee. Its rich, full-bodied flavor, combined with its unique preparation and cultural importance, sets it apart from other global coffee traditions.
The History of Cuban Coffee
The journey of coffee to the shores of Cuba is as captivating as the drink itself. The magical beans found their way to Cuba in the mid-18th century through Jose Antonio Gelabert, a Cuban who ventured to Santo Domingo and returned with coffee plants. These initial seeds were the beginning of a flourishing industry that would eventually position Cuba as one of the world’s premier coffee producers by the 19th century.
Coffee plantations, known as “cafetales,” began dotting the Cuban landscape, particularly in the eastern regions. These plantations weren’t just centers of production; they were microcosms of Cuban society. They played a crucial role in the economy and became spaces where various cultural elements, from music to dance to food, intertwined. The cafetales became significant community hubs, bringing people together, much like the coffee they produced.
By the 20th century, coffee’s role had expanded beyond the plantations and production. It was embedded in Cuban daily life. From the bustling streets of Havana to the serene countryside, the aroma of brewing coffee wafted through the air. And while the political and economic landscape of Cuba underwent dramatic shifts during the century, the love for coffee remained constant, a testament to its deep roots in the Cuban identity.
Best Cuban Coffee brands
Mayorga Organics Café Cubano, Dark Roast, Whole Bean Coffee
Features
- 100% Arabica
- Shade-grown coffee
- Roasted and packaged in the USA
- 100% Certified USDA Organic coffee
- Signature Slow-Roasting Process
- This coffee is non-GMO
- This coffee is Fair Trade certified
- Farmer Direct
Overview
MAYORGA COFFEE CAFÉ CUBANO ROAST is more than just a coffee; it’s an experience worth delving into. The hints of vanilla, combined with a unique syrupy smokiness, make every sip memorable.
The meticulous Latin slow-roasting method used by MAYORGA further distinguishes this roast. By choosing to roast in small batches, they guarantee consistent quality and flavor in every pack. Additionally, their commitment to sustainability is evident in their choice to source 100% organic beans, emphasizing both health and environmental consciousness.
Beyond the brew, MAYORGA’s ethos shines through. As a proud Latino-owned company, their emphasis isn’t just on producing great coffee but also on fostering relationships.
Cafe La Llave Espresso Dark Roast Coffee
Features
- Vacuum packed bricks
- Made from 100% Arabic beans
- Certified Kosher
Overview
Café La Llave is a type of coffee that’s already ground for you. It has a strong connection to the coffee traditions of Cuba. The people who started this coffee brand came from Cuba to Los Angeles and brought their family’s coffee-making knowledge with them.
They made this coffee especially for people who love Latin-style coffee. If you’re looking for a truly authentic taste, this coffee is a great choice.
Even though it’s not very expensive, Café La Llave doesn’t compromise on bold flavor or nice smell. It’s a dark roast coffee that’s well-balanced, meaning it’s not too strong or too weak. It has a bit of sweetness and a pleasant chocolate smell.
While it’s meant for espresso,it actually tastes stronger when you use a regular coffee maker. Depending on how strong you like your coffee, it can work well in an espresso machine, though it might not be super strong for some people.
Chock Full o’Nuts Original Roast Ground Coffee, Medium Roast
Features
- Infinitely recyclable steel
- 100% premium coffee beans
- Orthodox Union Certified Kosher and Gluten-Free
- Original Roast is a rich full blend that is not bitter or acidic
- Historic Brand: Chock Full o’Nuts has been around since the 1930s, making it a historic
- The coffee is available in various sizes
Overview
Chock Full o’Nuts Medium Roast Original Coffee uses top-quality coffee beans for a great taste. When you brew it, you’ll get a strong coffee flavor and its signature scent. No matter the type of coffee machine you have, this coffee will work. So, you only need to pick your favorite mug.
Since 1932, people have enjoyed starting their mornings with Chock Full o’Nuts. The coffee doesn’t have gluten, and it’s approved as Kosher. The metal can is recyclable and keeps the coffee fresh.
The Chock Full o’Nuts has been offering delicious coffee for almost a century. Whether morning, noon, or night, its unique flavor and aroma are always a treat.
Café Bustelo Espresso Dark Roast Ground Coffee
Features
- One vacuum-sealed 10 oz. Café Bustelo coffee brick
- Distinct Latino flavor, great with or without additives
- Robust dark roast with an enticing aroma.
- Compatible with various coffee makers
Overview
Café Bustelo Coffee Espresso is a popular coffee brand that has been around for nearly a century. Founded in 1928 by Gregorio Bustelo, a Spanish immigrant who settled in East Harlem, New York, Café Bustelo quickly became a household name among the city’s Hispanic community. Today, Café Bustelo is enjoyed by coffee lovers all over the world.
One of the things that sets Café Bustelo apart from other coffee brands is its richness and intensity. This espresso-style coffee is known for its full-bodied flavor that remains unparalleled. Whether you prefer to brew it using a drip coffee maker or enjoy it as an instant espresso, Café Bustelo delivers a strong cup of Joe that is sure to satisfy.
In addition to its great taste, Café Bustelo also has a versatile product line. From ground coffee in the original bright canister to K-Cups, there is something for everyone. Whether you prefer pour-overs or French presses, Café Bustelo has you covered.
Overall, Café Bustelo Coffee Espresso is a great choice for anyone looking for a rich and intense coffee experience. Its full-bodied flavor and versatile product line make it a standout choice for any coffee lover.
Cafe La Carreta Espresso Coffee 10 oz Miami Cuban-style Espresso
Features
- La Carreta coffee is packaged in a vacuum-packed brick
- It is made from a special blend of selected beans
- It is produced using a precise roasting formula for a unique taste
- It is enjoyed by thousands at La Carreta restaurants
Overview
Cafe La Carreta Espresso Coffee, packaged in a 10 oz container, represents the authentic flavor of Miami’s Cuban-style espresso. This coffee boasts a rich and bold taste, pre-ground specifically for espresso machines. The fine grind is perfect for Moka pots, a common brewing method for Cuban coffee.
Whether you’re making traditional Cuban drinks like cortaditos or cafecitos, or simply enjoying a straight shot of espresso, this coffee promises an authentic experience straight from the heart of Miami’s coffee culture.
Gavina Old Havana Espresso, Whole Bean
Features
- Certified Kosher
- 100% Arabica Coffee
- Blended, roasted and packed at their zero-waste-to-landfill facility in Los Angeles
Overview
Gavina Old Havana Espresso is a nod to the Cuban heritage where coffee means espresso. Made from 100% Arabica Coffee, this coffee has a nutty, sweet flavor with hints of citrus and a smooth finish. The whole bean coffee delivers the freshness and quality you need to create the perfect espresso shot.
The coffee is blended, roasted, and packed at a zero-waste-to-landfill facility in Los Angeles. The coffee is produced using a precise roasting formula for a unique taste.
Overall, Gavina Old Havana Espresso, Whole Bean is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a delicious and high-quality espresso coffee. Its unique flavor and smooth finish make it the perfect choice for any coffee lover.
Naviera Cuban Style Dark Roasted Coffee
Features
- Family owned and operated.
- Gluten Free
Overview
Another pre-ground coffee option worth considering is the Naviera Cuban Style Dark Roast. Diving into the coffee itself, the Naviera Cuban Style Dark Roast offers a robust and strong flavor profile that’s characteristic of Cuban coffee culture.
A distinct feature of this blend is the inclusion of hints of chicory, a ground root derived from the flowering dandelion plant. The chicory infusion contributes a woody and earthy undertone to the coffee’s taste. If you haven’t encountered chicory before, it might take a few sips to acclimate to its unique flavor, but it’s a note that many coffee enthusiasts appreciate.
What sets Naviera’s offering apart is its lower caffeine content compared to other coffee brands. If you find yourself sensitive to caffeine or prefer a cup that doesn’t pack as much of a jolt, this could be an ideal choice for you.
Whether you’re already a fan of Cuban-style coffee or looking to embark on a new flavor adventure, Naviera Cuban Style Dark Roast brings the spirit of traditional Cuban coffee to your cup, all with the convenience of pre-ground coffee that you can easily order online.
FAQs
What is the flavor profile of the best Cuban coffee
Cuban coffee is renowned for its robust, flavorful taste. The coffee beans are given a deeper shade since they are roasted longer than ordinary coffee beans. Additionally, this raises the caffeine content.
Cuban coffee typically has a lot of sugar added during the brewing process, which adds to its sweetness. Depending on the brand and roast type, the flavor profile of the greatest Cuban coffee might change, but it typically has elements of chocolate, nuttiness, vanilla, sweetness, and smokiness.
What is the best way to brew Cuban coffee
Cuban coffee is traditionally brewed using a stovetop espresso maker or Moka pot. The coffee grounds are combined with boiling water and brewed espresso-style. However, some brands of Cuban coffee can also be brewed using other methods such as drip or pour-over. It’s important to choose a brewing method that suits your taste preferences and the flavor profile of the coffee you’re using.
Is Cuban coffee strong or weak
Cuban coffee is known for its strong, bold flavor. The coffee beans are roasted longer than other coffee beans, giving them a darker color. This also results in higher caffeine content. Cuban coffee is often brewed with a lot of sugar, contributing to its characteristic sweetness. So, Cuban coffee is generally considered to be strong rather than weak.
Final Verdict
Cuban Coffee is renowned for its unique preparation method that marries the boldness of espresso with the sweetness of sugar, producing a drink that is both robust and richly flavored. The “espumita” on top is the signature of a well-made “cafecito,” showcasing the art and tradition that goes into each cup.
For those seeking an authentic Cuban coffee experience, it’s essential to choose high-quality Arabica beans. While many brands claim to offer the best beans, a few stand out due to their consistency, flavor profile, and loyal customer base. Brands such as Café Bustelo, Pilon, and La Llave have been staples in many Cuban households.
However, the true magic of Cuban coffee lies in its preparation. Even the best beans won’t shine unless brewed correctly. Achieving the right balance of strength and sweetness’’
In conclusion, while individual brands might offer high-quality beans, the title of “best” Cuban coffee really goes to the brewer. Mastery of the traditional brewing method, combined with quality beans, will yield a cup of Cuban coffee that stands out. As with many traditional foods and drinks, authenticity, technique, and passion play pivotal roles in determining the best.