Coffee beans & Bangalorean

Bangalore is sure turning into one coffee heaven as coffee and espresso bars have sprung on to the scene at every nook at corner of this city.

These coffee bars that are a social staple of European and Latin American and Middle Eastern cities are now a compelling landmark in all major cities across this tea-consuming nation. Bangalore, unlike other metros in the South calls forth the interests of Italian and Latino brews.

Barista was established to recreate the ambience and experience of the typical neighbourhood Espresso Bars in India.

Lavazza, that entered India by acquiring Barista Coffee Company Limited and Fresh & Honest Cafe Limited, has become a leading brand in the country and is the true symbol of Italian espresso coffee. The taste of Italy has been brought even more close to Indian consumers with the help of Lavazza Blue that has made it possible for people to enjoy different types of coffees without leaving the comfort of their homes. "The new Lavazza Blue Coffee Maker LB 1100 Series makes for an ideal Italian icon at one's home or office," says K Sivakumar, chief operating officer, Fresh & Honest Cafe Ltd. "These coffee makers work on patented capsule technology that delivers an authentic espresso experience in 30 seconds," he adds.

Santosh Unni, CEO of Costa Coffee, who thinks of coffee as a flamboyant drink, believes that it now means more to people than something to merely socialise over. "People want to try exotic coffees that they don't have the tools and equipments for in their homes," he says. Unni believes that people have developed a coffee drinking habit overtime. "A stage will come when we become like those in the west," he adds.

According to Unni, it all depends on the profile of the coffee. "Some people prefer a strong flavour like Cappuccino while the others like Latte from Costa Coffee or Barista Lavazza," he says. "All these coffees are called the same but each brand has a different taste," he adds.

In fact, Bru, a label that was known to have a limited selection of Indian filter and instant coffee, too has forayed into a few international blends. Their latest offering, Bru Exotica, brings together coffees from Brazil, Columbia and Kilimanjaro. Rather steeply priced, these rare and special coffee blends are perfect for those who like their coffees at home. Arun Srinivas, general manager, Beverages, says, "Indian coffee connoisseurs actively look out for international blends for the perfect aroma and taste. The Bru Exotica range of international freeze dried coffees, will mark our entry into the premium coffee segment. With Bru Exotica, our endeavour is to offer the world's finest coffee experiences, best suited for the Indian taste buds. This range of rare coffees promises to transcend you to an exotic world, filled with the goodness of its origin."

Actress Priyanka Chopra, who is a brand ambassador for the label, has said, "Being an avid coffee lover, it's great to know that I can relax in the comforts of my home and enjoy the most exotic coffee blends from across the world. I'm absolutely addicted to the rich flavour of Columbia and can't get enough of it."