I used to be a hardcore loyalist of international coffee brands; those shiny, imported packs of coffee grounds or beans always seemed to promise a premium experience. For years, I stuck with the likes of Lavazza, Starbucks, and Nescafé, believing that international meant better. But over time, I realized that maybe the best coffee for me wasn’t coming from faraway places; it was right here at home, being crafted by Indian brands that understood both my taste and convenience needs.
My Discovery of Indian Coffee Brands:
The shift didn’t happen overnight. A couple of years back, while visiting a friend, I had my first cup of Blue Tokai. The rich aroma and robust flavour caught me by surprise. “This is Indian coffee?” I asked in disbelief. My friend explained that Blue Tokai sources its beans from Indian coffee estates and roasts them right here in the country. I was intrigued, but still not fully convinced to switch. However, the more I dug into the world of Indian coffee brands, the more I began to appreciate what they had to offer.
Reasons Why I Made the Switch
1. Freshness and Quality: Indian brands like Blue Tokai and Sleepy Owl offer fresher coffee. Unlike international brands that travel across borders and sit on store shelves for weeks (or even months), Indian coffee brands source their beans locally, roast them in small batches, and often deliver them right to your door. The freshness is undeniable—it makes a huge difference in the taste.
2. Direct Sourcing from Indian Coffee Estates: Another reason I switched was because local brands like source their beans directly from Indian states. There is a certain pride in knowing that I am supporting local farmers and the Indian coffee industry. I like how each bag from Blue Tokai tells you which state the beans come from, so it feels more personal and connected to the local community.
3. Customization and Variety: One of the things that sealed the deal for me was the customization options. Brands offer cold brew coffee in ready-to-brew packets that make it incredibly easy for someone like me, who doesn’t want to mess around with complex coffee-making processes. They even have options for espresso, filter coffee, and pour-over, so I can switch up my brew depending on my mood.
4. Convenience Meets Craftsmanship: Let’s face it; convenience is key. I don’t always have time to grind beans or brew a perfect pour-over before heading out for the day. This is where Sleepy Owl shines with its ready-to-use cold brew packs and drip bags, perfect for on-the-go caffeine fixes. I found international brands either required too much effort or just didn’t match up when it came to taste.
5. Price Matters Too: Let’s not ignore the price factor. International coffee brands are expensive. While I used to justify the higher cost with “it’s better coffee,” I soon realized that Indian brands are not only more affordable but also offer premium quality. Blue Tokai and Sleepy Owl deliver a superior coffee experience at a fraction of what I was spending on imported beans. It just didn’t make sense to stick with the international ones anymore.
My Verdict: Now, I am fully converted. My mornings are fuelled by Indian coffee, whether it’s a cup of freshly brewed Blue Tokai or a quick and easy Sleepy Owl cold brew. It is satisfying to know that I am supporting local businesses while getting a better, fresher product. Plus, with the incredible variety and ethical practices these brands bring to the table, it’s hard to go back to the old ways.
So, what about you? Have you tried any Indian coffee brands? If so, what’s your favourite? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this coffee thing.
by