Kahwa Coffee

Before specialty coffee culture swept through every city in America, Kahwa Coffee was already doing it right in St. Petersburg. Founded in 2006 by Sarah and Raphael Perrier, this boutique roasting company has grown from a single location into Florida's largest independent coffee roaster — with 14 retail cafés and more than 800 wholesale customers — while staying rooted in the city where it all started. The flagship location on 2nd Avenue South in downtown St. Pete is where many locals begin their morning, and for good reason. Kahwa sources 100 percent premium Arabica beans from growing regions around the world, then blends and roasts them in small batches to bring out the most distinct flavors from each origin. Every bag is roasted and packaged on demand, so freshness is never in question. The café menu goes well beyond drip coffee — expect expertly pulled espresso, cold brew, and seasonal specialty drinks alongside pastries and light bites. The brand earned an early stamp of credibility when world-renowned French chef Paul Bocuse selected Kahwa to be the coffee served at his celebrated restaurant at Epcot. Since then, the company has continued to expand while maintaining the quality and personal touch that earned it a devoted following. Whether you grab a cup at the flagship or spot the Kahwa logo at your favorite local restaurant, you are tasting a St. Pete original.