Why Napoletano Coffee Isn’t the Best: A Surprising Take

You won’t believe what Francesco Costanzo says about Napoletano coffee! Dive into his journey and learn why specialty coffee is changing everything.

The Unexpected Journey of Francesco Costanzo

As someone who has spent years exploring the world of coffee, I can confidently say that few stories are as captivating as that of Francesco Costanzo, a renowned Italian roaster from Campania. With a record-breaking 726 cups prepared in just an hour, his story encapsulates both tradition and innovation within the realm of specialty coffee. You might think Napoletano coffee holds the crown, but after diving into Francesco’s insights, you’ll see things from a new perspective.

Early Beginnings Behind the Bar

Imagine being just twelve years old and already carrying coffee to local artisans in your neighborhood. For Francesco, this was more than just a job; it was a budding passion for all things coffee. He reminisces about those days with a sparkle in his eye. "It felt exhilarating—like I was part of something significant," he shared. It was during these formative years that he experienced his first cup at ten—sweetened to perfection—and realized the joy brewing this cherished beverage could bring.

Francesco recalls how he found himself behind the bar at fifteen:

• "I couldn’t even reach the machine without standing on tiptoes!"
  His eyes light up at this memory—the spark igniting what would become not just a career but a lifelong love affair with coffee.

Creating Coffee Culture: From Roastery to Community

Fast forward to today, where he runs Caffè Costanzo—a micro roastery born out of necessity and creativity during COVID-19 lockdowns. In 2019, life threw him unexpected challenges with the pandemic hitting hard. However, rather than retreating, he embraced transformation by investing in equipment and expanding his offerings.

The creation of his signature blend "Scugnizzo," named affectionately after Naples itself speaks volumes about his commitment to quality:

• Arabica from Brazil,
• Colombian specialties,
• And robust Kaapi Royale from India,
  This unique combination showcases notes of chocolate and caramel—all while catering to those curious young university students eager for something beyond traditional espresso.

Why Specialty Coffee Over Napoletano?

When asked if Napoletano is truly Italy’s finest brew, Francesco’s response is surprisingly candid: "Not necessarily! There are indeed exceptional brands doing important work across Italy." His critique shines through when discussing cultural preferences surrounding flavor profiles that lean heavily towards creamed Robustas rather than complex Arabicas often found in specialty blends.
That’s where younger generations come into play—they’re actively seeking better options with layered tastes instead! They experiment on Instagram, documenting their newfound journeys with specialty coffees—pushing traditional boundaries while paying homage back home.

Questions That Stir Curiosity About Your Cup of Joe:

1. What constitutes ‘specialty’ coffee?
2. How can one appreciate diverse brewing techniques?
3. Why do certain beans matter more than others?
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Photo by Ian Baldwin on Unsplash