Does my post’s title seem bold and daring ?
Maybe, but even though my travels to Africa for work with the UN, stopping in Dubai and London, along with Johannesburg, have decreased, I can assure you that I’ve yet to encounter a coffee experience that matches what I enjoy in specialty coffee shops and at home.
After a week of relentless work in a foreign place, rushing to the airport early in the morning or late in the evening, all I craved was a really good cup of “specialty” coffee – not just any coffee, but specialty coffee.
So, late last year, after presenting at an international conference on land degradation in Riyadh and steering clear of hotel coffee, I found myself dropped off at the new Terminal 4 of King Khalid Airport. As I entered the gate area after security, I spotted a large Starbucks right in the departure gates area – my heart sank – but just before I could react, I glanced to my far right and saw a familiar sign…
Camel Step
A smile spread across my face.
Yes, you may recognize them from my blog where I featured the top ten places for specialty coffee in Riyadh back in 2021.
I dashed there as quickly as I could to get my specialty coffee fix, which was essential after an early start (my flight was at 9am, so I left the hotel before 7am).
Camel Step has been a cornerstone for specialty coffee in Saudi Arabia for some time, sourcing quality beans. They utilize a Dalla Corte espresso machine for their espresso-based drinks and also offer snacks, pastries, cakes, and coffee beans. During my initial visit,
I ordered a flat white.
Wow! Check out the latte art here.
I can’t speak for other specialty coffee shops in international airports, but based on this, I’m convinced this is the finest latte art you’ll find at an airport since not many baristas I’ve encountered produce such art on a daily basis.
For my second visit, I also ordered another flat white.
I couldn’t help but grab some Kenyan arabica beans, which I’ve recently been brewing with my Hario V60, and they’re delightful. It’s worth noting that if you purchase a bag of coffee beans, they will provide you with a complimentary cup of black coffee (not milk-based – I inquired and was told no).
There’s also a small seating area that fills up quickly.
So, if you happen to be passing through King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh and find yourself in terminal 4, I highly recommend stopping by Camel Step for your specialty coffee fix – I don’t think you’ll be let down.
What a wonderful way to kickstart your journey and day with good coffee.
**A Guide to the Best Specialty Coffee Selections at the Airport**
Travel can be exhausting, and for many travelers, a delightful cup of coffee is crucial to launch their journey or rejuvenate during a layover. Fortunately, airports globally have adopted the specialty coffee trend, providing a range of premium coffee options. Here’s a guide to some of the finest specialty coffee selections you may discover at airports.
**1. Single-Origin Coffee**
Single-origin coffee is procured from a specific locality or even a single farm, delivering distinct flavors that represent the terroir of its source. These coffees are frequently featured in specialty coffee shops within airports, offering a chance to savor distinct characteristics from locales like Ethiopia, Colombia, or Guatemala. Seek out cafes that showcase their single-origin options on the menu.
**2. Cold Brew**
Cold brew coffee has surged in popularity due to its smooth and less acidic flavor profile. Numerous airport cafes now provide cold brew as a refreshing substitute for hot coffee. Created by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water over an extended period, cold brew is ideal for travelers wanting a chilled, caffeinated drink.
**3. Nitro Coffee**
For those looking for something different, nitro coffee is a must-try. This cold brew coffee is charged with nitrogen gas, giving it a creamy mouthfeel and frothy top akin to draft beer. Nitro coffee is typically served on tap at specialty coffee counters in airports, providing an exciting experience for coffee lovers.
**4. Espresso-Based Beverages**
Espresso-based beverages such as lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos are common at most coffee shops. However, specialty coffee shops in airports often elevate these classics by utilizing high-quality beans and meticulous brewing methods. Look for cafes that provide various milk alternatives, including oat, almond, or soy, to personalize your drink.
**5. Pour-Over Coffee**
Pour-over coffee is a hands-on brewing technique that offers better control over the extraction process, yielding a clean and flavorful cup. Some airport cafes feature pour-over stations where baristas craft each cup to order, emphasizing the coffee’s subtleties. This method is perfect for those who truly appreciate the craft of coffee brewing.
**6. Specialty Lattes**
Specialty lattes are inventive twists on the traditional latte, often incorporating unique flavor combinations and ingredients. From lavender honey lattes to turmeric-infused golden milk lattes, these beverages present a delightful variation on the classic. Check the menu for seasonal or signature lattes that showcase the creativity of the café.
**7. Sustainable and Ethical Choices**
Numerous specialty coffee shops at airports emphasize sustainability and ethical sourcing. Look for cafés that offer fair trade or direct trade coffee, ensuring that farmers receive equitable compensation for their labor. Additionally, some cafes adopt eco-friendly options, such as compostable cups and utensils, to lessen their ecological footprint.
**Conclusion**
The next time you find yourself at an airport, take a moment to discover the specialty coffee offerings available. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or simply in need of a caffeine kick, these premium options can enhance your travel experience. From single-origin brews to inventive lattes, there’s something to please every palate. Savor the journey, one cup at a time.
