Coffee Highlight: Cafe Centro

In the heart of the South Park neighborhood, San Francisco, there has long been a daily buzz around the famed Caffe Centro. Throughout communities globally, the idea of “Centro”, (the center, middle of something) often provides the heartbeat of activity to our villages, towns, and cities. It is a common gathering place for meetings, conversation, relaxation, and culinary pleasures. This is the inspiration behind Fidalgo’s Organic Centro Blend. Named after the well-known coffee institution, this medium-dark, smooth coffee creates comfort and familiarity you can depend on daily.

Organic centro coffee - medium dark roast coffee

The beans in Organic Centro are a “post roast,” meaning a blend of two separate batches with different profiles. The first part is Peru roasted dark. Then, a combination of Peru and Guatemala is added from a second lighter roast. Sourced at an altitude range of roughly 3600 – 5600 ft above sea level, the Piura, Amazonas, Cajamarca, and San Martin regions are situated in the Northern part of Peru. The crop is fully washed and dried in the sun. The beans are certified fair trade, organic, and known for caramel, chocolate, and walnut notes.

The smaller portion of Guatemala beans used in the lighter roast component also have the same certifications and undergo the wash/dry method. They are sourced from the Santa Cruz Barillas within the department of Huehuetenango, a region situated around 4600 feet above sea level. These beans can show flavors of banana bread, baking spice, nougat, and dark chocolate.

Together, they create a coffee described as mellow with a medium body, mild acidity, and a sweet finish. Some other notes to look for include roasted nuts, white chocolate, and citrus flavors that can taste winey or buttery. As mentioned, the acidity is mild but present, creating balance for an ideal “everyday” cup or enjoy with simple pairings like fresh bagels, biscotti, and buttered biscuits.

This is a coffee you could feature as a “house brew” for your busy café or restaurant – focused and consistent. Centro’s character embraces the coastal climate zones and an element of sophistication. Try it with an orange-walnut scone, or perhaps combine it with your favorite milk steamed up for a classic café au lait. It’s a “go-to” blend that appeals to a seasoned coffee drinker calling for refills and time set aside to savor for a while.