That’s exactly what unfolded at this year’s Manchester Coffee Fest. It wasn’t just about the caffeine buzz; it was about connecting with passionate creators and celebrating the vibrant UK independent food scene. Here’s a recap of the wonderful people, brands, and flavours that made the day unforgettable.
Sipping the Future: KAYTEA by Kevin Tang
When it comes to cold brew tea, Kevin Tang is raising the bar—one franchise at a time. KAYTEA truly lives up to its reputation as the best in the market. Tagging along with Kevin for the day was a privilege, witnessing first-hand his dedication to creating a product that’s redefining refreshment. P.S. Kevin, next time we’ll make sure to grab that photo op!
Brewing Excellence: Dark Woods Coffee
Meeting Damian Blackburn and learning about Dark Woods Coffee’s journey as a B Corp pioneer was inspiring. Their Yemeni blend was nothing short of exceptional—rich with chocolate notes and a story as deep as its flavour. It’s no wonder their premium brand is setting standards in the coffee world. Damian, your passion for Yorkshire and the coffee industry is absolutely infectious!
A standout at the show, Living Things Soda offered more than just a sip—it was an experience. Their lemon & ginger soda was a hit with my family, and it’s easy to see why. The brand, led by Lexie Forrester and her team, is as refreshing as their product. Living Things has mastered the art of balancing great taste with an eye-catching identity.
Matcha That Converts: Matcha Ninja
Confession time: I’ve never been much of a matcha fan—until now. Matcha Ninja served up the creamiest, most balanced matcha I’ve ever tasted. It was velvety smooth, with none of the “freshly mown lawn” vibes that often come with the territory. Consider me a matcha convert.
Mocktails Done Right: FUNKIN COCKTAILS | B Corp™
Who knew you could mix coconut purée, matcha, oat milk, and strawberry syrup into a drink that’s not only good for you but utterly delicious? FUNKIN COCKTAILS is reimagining the mocktail game, proving you don’t need alcohol to craft a show-stopping drink. Hats off to the team for their creative flair and health-conscious approach.
Tea Time Mastery: Birchall Tea
When it comes to tea, Birchall Tea and Finlay MacLaren are leading the charge. Their bold flavours and strong branding impressed me, though my wife still swears by Ceylon over Kenyan tea. (Finlay, she’s almost converted!) Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurer in flavour, Birchall has something to offer every tea lover.
Brazilian Bliss: 200 Degrees Coffee Roasters
Thanks to Sinéad Bevan and 200 Degrees Coffee Roasters, I ended the day with a delightful Brazilian brew. Their passion for crafting quality coffee is evident in every sip. I can’t wait to visit their Mosley Street location to relive the experience.
A Toast to the Independent Scene
Manchester Coffee Fest wasn’t just a celebration of coffee and beverages; it was a tribute to the incredible creators shaping the UK’s independent food and drink landscape. From cold brews to mocktails, every product told a story, and every encounter left me inspired.
Here’s to supporting these innovators and savouring their delicious creations. Whether it’s your next brew, tea, or soda, remember that every sip supports a dream.
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