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Whereas first wave coffee is characterized by increased accessibility and consumption, and second wave coffee by specialty flavors and the social experience of sitting down at a cafe (think: Starbucks), third wave coffee has forged the most meaningful relationship between customer and cup thus far.
Third wave coffee, which took off during the mid-90s to early 2000s, means that roasters focus on transparency, seasonality, and customer experience. Fair and direct trade practices are central to the business, and customers can learn exactly where their beans came from and how growing partners and farmers are treated. The devotion to the craft and ritual of coffee is clear from the moment you walk through the doors of the beautifully designed coffee shop, and though your cup of joe is expensive, you have to admit - you can taste the difference.
More often than not, these third wave coffee shops in San Francisco, Portland, New York City, and other major hubs aren't casual pit stops on the way to another destination. They are the final destination, and coffee lovers can't imagine a more exciting pilgrimage than the trek to obtain this specialty coffee.
While visiting the coffee shop is the best way to enjoy its blends, the next best option if there's no location near you or you want to make it yourself at home is to find it online. Knowing that bags from these coffee roasters are stocked in your pantry, you'll wake up eager to start your morning routine.
Shop the following third wave coffee brands online:
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