http://www.opendoorspanama.com/luxuries-of-pedasi/playa-venao-cafe-roastery/
If you are thinking “Starbucks” quality, think again. Starbucks has nothing on Playa Venao Cafe and Roastery, where every step of the process is so meticulously executed and refined, that it won’t take you long to realize you don’t need all that sugary flavoring to enjoy the true flavor of coffee as it really was intended.
Sipping an earthy long black (or two), I enjoyed a crash course in coffee from world-traveled barista, John Vaz Matías. It all starts with the bean, of course. And it was the bean itself that brought John from traveling and reviewing popular coffee houses in Europe across the Atlantic to Panama. In the mountain valleys of Boquete, you can find “Third Wave” or “Specialty Coffee”– which represents highest quality bean in the top 5% of the world, and surpasses any with the commercialized label “Organic Coffee”. John’s organization, Panama Varietals, only works with farmers they know practice fair trade standards. Together, they carefully select the beans which absorb and deliver flavors of fruit, nuts, and more from the soil, similar to the grapes of a fine wine in Tuscany.
A ROASTING PROCESS AIMED AT PERFECTION
Taking your beverage from bean to frothy perfection is Leo, a local Panamanian from Cañas who has been expertly trained by John and speaks as passionately about the process as his mentor. Together, they have worked toward the perfectly timed, perfectly executed system of roasting onsite. They keep meticulous mathematical records and throw away full batches if they are not absolutely correct in color, aroma, and texture. By pulling the roast at the first crack, they achieve a medium light roast that balances the acidity and sugars. The results can be used for both coffee and espresso. Most often, the milk used comes direct from a dairy farm in Cañas, only ten minutes down the road. Presentation of course, is key, and as you can see, Leo delivers!
The outdoor ambiance is peaceful, tranquil and surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. Natural, rustic tables are perfect for enjoying with friends, or with a quiet book on your own. Sometimes, I take a trip from Pedasi to Venao just for the enjoyment of the café… and it’s totally worth it!
DETAILS
Hours: Open every day except Tuesday, 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM- 4:00 PM
Hint: Treat yourself to enjoying this flavorful coffee at home! These make great gifts too! It’s a little pricey compared to the same size bag of Duran at the local grocery, but so worth it! Bags are $10-15