Legend has that that coffee was first discovered in the 9th century by an Ethiopian goat herder whose goats became very energetic after eating the cherries of a particular tree in the forests of the Ethiopian Highlands. From there, its popularity spread eastwards into Yemen and the Arabian Peninsula, before arriving in Europe in the 16th century. Coffee has been served for hundreds of years, using many different methods, from unfiltered Turkish coffee to the Italian espresso and, of course, the British stalwart of instant granules.
Instant coffee was adopted by the military in both World Wars as a quick and easy way for soldiers to get their caffeine fix. Its popularity continued after WWII, as new technology enabled the freeze-drying of coffee for an improved flavour. Although we Brits have cherished our instant coffee for many years, 21st century tastes are evolving quickly, bringing with them new habits and consumer demands.
Cultural movements, including the rise of social media, an increased awareness of health and a multicultural society, have led to an explosion of coffee shops on the high street, which in turn has raised our expectations of coffee across all hospitality settings. Consumers may be sharing images of an innovative product they’ve found; they may be avoiding alcohol for health or religious reasons; perhaps seeking to replicate a drink they tried on holiday or looking for a taste of home in the UK.
Whatever their motivation, data shows that tastes have become more sophisticated and the consumer now demands great-tasting coffee, ideally well-presented and professionally served. Equally important is a wide choice of coffee-based drinks, from decaf and simple, black, filter coffee, to a range of milk-based drinks, indulgent instagram-worthy creations, and options with sustainable credentials.
Produced from only high-grade coffee beans, the CHEF Approved and CHEF Prestige coffees can be used by hospitality professionals to cater for all of these consumer needs:
CHEF Prestige 100% Premium Arabica RFA Coffee Beans
Premium 100% Arabica beans with Rainforest Alliance certification, ideal for high-end coffee shops and customers who value sustainability credentials. Full-bodied with milk chocolate sweetness, toasted nut character and stone fruit notes. A sophisticated choice that delivers approximately 62-71 double espresso servings per 1kg pack.
CHEF Prestige Espresso Beans
An 80% Arabica, 20% Robusta blend designed for versatility across the hospitality sector. Heavy-bodied with dark chocolate, toffee and roasted peanut notes, this coffee holds its character in milk-based drinks and delivers a long finish. Suitable for high street-quality service with approximately 62-71 double espresso servings per 1kg pack.
CHEF Prestige 100% Arabica Filter
High-quality, Rainforest Alliance Certified, 100% Arabica ground coffee for filter brewing, packed in 1 x 60 x 60g. Medium-bodied with a smooth mouthfeel, rich cocoa sweetness and mild fruity acidity that finished clean. Pre-portioned 60g sachets make preparation straightforward and consistent, ideal for breakfast service and all-day coffee offerings. Approximately 62-71 double espresso servings per 1kg pack. Packed in 1 x 60
CHEF Prestige 100% Arabica Decaf Beans
Decaffeinated without compromise. These 100% Arabica beans offer a silky, smooth body with blonde caramel sweetness and a clean finish. Give your customers a quality decaf option that matches your regular coffee standards. Each 500g pack delivers approximately 31-35 double espresso servings.
CHEF Approved Barista Beans
A balanced 50% Arabica, 50% Robusta blend that delivers great value without compromising on the taste. This classic coffee offers low acidity with strong bass notes, dark cocoa and hazelnut flavours and a hint of dried fruit. Perfect for high-volume operations where consistency matters. Each 1kg pack yields approximately 62-71 double espresso servings.
