In 1996, University of Washington Alumni Jeff Babcock created Zoka Coffee Roaster & Tea Company. Thanks to the small-batch roasting of quality Zoka coffees, we have been featured in national publications, like GQ and Details magazine, as one of top shops in the country. We were also awarded 2008 Roaster of the Year by Roast Magazine and have taken countless trophies home in barista competitions.
The cornerstone concept of the Zoka Coffee Roaster & Tea Company is the focus on artisan coffee. We understand that fine coffees are only as good as the beans that go into making them which is why we travel the world to find new growing regions with just the right elevation and climate and farmers who share our passion for quality. It's all part of our ongoing search for the perfect bean for every Zoka artisan roasted coffee.
Nestled in the heart of Seattle's Wallingford District, Zoka's first cafe has become a vibrant hub of activity and community. Thanks to the small-batch roasting of Zoka coffees, it's often hard to find a seat. Jeff believes fervently in the importance of handcrafted, single-batch roasting and that "specialty" is a word that denotes more than just a grade of coffee. As such, all the coffees are roasted one at a time by skilled artisan roasters who give their undivided attention to the coffee and the surrounding conditions. Zoka is so adamant about quality that every roast that comes out of the machine goes through two production cuppings, typically performed by the roaster, roastmaster, and often a few other employees. It's an approach that values consistency and quality above all else.
Zoka Coffee Roaster & Tea Company focuses on our local community. Where other coffeehouses may hurry customers out the door, we at Zoka invite you to stay, and feel honored when you decide to settle in with us for a whole afternoon.
Where we regard our customers with warmth and respect, we consider our coworkers as close as family. Each Zoka staffer brings new creativity, ideas and joy to the table, thereby continuing what has become a grand tradition of diversity and originality at Zoka.
We treasure the bonds we share with customers and fellow baristas, and we hope you'll join us in growing our family bigger still.
Roasting Process / Roaster:
Gas - Drum / Probat UG45
