At Home Barista - Basic Coffee Knowledge

Dark Roast Doesn’t Mean Stronger Coffee—and Expensive Coffee Isn’t Always Better!

As a barista, I am often asked, “What’s your strongest coffee you got?” or “Which coffee is the best?”. Recently I even had a customer come in and ask me “Which drip coffee is your best quality?” (I kid you not, this was a first, but I had my coffee knowledge ready). 

Many believe that dark roast arabica coffee beans like Coffee Verona or Italian Roast are stronger and pack more caffeine. Others think that the more expensive the coffee bean, the better the quality. Let’s clear the air on these misconceptions and I can help you enjoy coffee with confidence.

Myth #1: Dark Roast Means Stronger Coffee

dark roast arabica beans, pouring beans on to a scale

It’s a common belief that dark roast arabica coffee beans have more caffeine than lighter roasts. Dark roast is a really popular coffee, and one of the founding coffee roasts at Starbucks alongside 1971 Pikes Place (like the 1975 Cafe Verona). Dark roast coffee Verona may taste “bolder”, not stronger, due to their longer roasting process, which brings out smoky, intense flavors. 

Dark roast coffee Verona may taste “bolder”, not stronger, due to their longer roasting process, which brings out smoky, intense flavors.

In fact, dark roast black coffee has incredible health benefits. However, if you’re craving a real caffeine boost, consider a light roast that retains more of the bean’s natural caffeine. Dark roasts, like Italian Roast and the coffee Verona, are still great options if you’re after that rich, robust flavor without extra caffeine.

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Myth #2: Expensive Coffee Equals Better Quality

dark roast arabica beans, cafe Verona and other coffee bags

In Los Angeles, let me tell you there are a ton of coffee brands of all price ranges and it is impossible to try everything. I’ve tried a ton of different brands, and even taken some of their coffee beans home to try making myself.

It is easy to assume that higher-priced coffee is superior, but price alone doesn’t guarantee better flavor or quality. Starbuck’s dark roast arabica coffee beans like Coffee Verona and Italian roast offer great taste at an affordable price. Some of your other higher end specialty coffee beans may have a higher price that reflects ethical sourcing or specialty origins. However, the best cup of coffee is the one that suits your taste—whether it’s a luxury blend or something more budget-friendly.

The best cup of coffee is the one that suits your taste—whether it’s a luxury blend or something more budget-friendly.

Finding the Right Roast for You

Ultimately, choosing coffee is about discovering what you love. Dark roast arabica coffee beans like Cafe Verona offer a unique experience, while light and medium roasts open up different flavor profiles. Experimenting with roasts, origins, and brewing methods can reveal a variety of tastes and strengths that suit your preferences.

Try these affordable Dark Roasts:

Final Thoughts

Choose what you love and feel confident in your coffee choices!

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