Does the title of my post appear bold (audacious) ?
Maybe, but even though I travel less than I used to during my regular trips to Africa for the UN, passing through Dubai and London, as well as Johannesburg, I can assure you that I have yet to encounter a delightful coffee experience that matches what I’m used to at specialty coffee shops or at home.
It was always a struggle for my taste buds after working relentlessly for a week abroad, dashing to the airport either in the early morning or late at night when all I desired was a decent cup of “specialty” coffee – not just any coffee, but specialty.
So, late last year, after delivering a talk at an international conference on land degradation in Riyadh and evading hotel coffee, I found myself dropped off at the new Terminal 4 at King Khalid airport. As I entered the gate area after passing security, I spotted a large Starbucks right at the departure gates – my heart sank – but before I could protest, I glanced to my far right and spotted a familiar sign…
Camel Step
A grin appeared on my face
Yes, you may recall hearing about them, as I mentioned them in my earlier blog where I highlighted the top ten places for specialty coffee in Riyadh back in 2021.
I rushed there as quickly as possible to satisfy my specialty coffee craving, which was necessary 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 quite some time and sources excellent coffees. They utilize a Dalla Corte espresso machine for their espresso-based drinks and also offer snacks, pastries, cakes, and coffee beans. On my second visit,
During my first visit, I ordered a flat white.
Wow! Just look at the latte art here.
I’m unsure about other specialty coffee shops in international airports, but judging from the above, I would wager this is the finest latte art at an airport, since not many baristas I have encountered can achieve this daily.
On my second visit, I also ordered a flat white.
I couldn’t help but purchase some Kenyan arabica beans, which I have been brewing on my Hario V60 recently, and it’s delicious. It’s worth noting that if you buy a bag of coffee beans, they will give you a complimentary cup of black coffee (not milk-based – I asked, and they confirmed “no”).
There’s also a small seating area that fills up quickly.
So, if you happen to be transiting through King Khalid international airport in Riyadh and are fortunate to be in terminal 4, I highly advise you to stop by Camel Step for your specialty coffee needs, and I believe you won’t be let down.
What an excellent way to kick off your journey and day – with good coffee.
**Explore the Best Specialty Coffee at the Airport**
Traveling can be an exhilarating journey, but the hustle of airports often leaves passengers longing for a peaceful moment. For coffee aficionados, finding a quality cup of coffee amidst the chaos can prove difficult. However, airports worldwide are increasingly meeting this demand by providing specialty coffee options that compete with those found in the trendiest urban cafes. Here’s how to discover the best specialty coffee at the airport.
**1. The Emergence of Specialty Coffee in Airports**
In recent years, there has been a notable shift in consumer preferences towards high-quality, ethically sourced coffee. This trend has not gone unnoticed by airports, which have started to include specialty coffee shops in their facilities. These establishments prioritize delivering coffee that is not only tasty but also sustainably sourced and skillfully prepared.
**2. What Defines Coffee as “Specialty”?**
Specialty coffee is characterized by its quality, unique flavor profiles, and ethical sourcing methods. It typically receives a score of 80 points or higher on a 100-point scale by certified coffee tasters. The beans are often single-origin, meaning they originate from a specific region or farm, allowing for distinct flavors that represent their terroir. Specialty coffee shops focus on precision in brewing methods, often employing skilled baristas who are passionate about their craft.
**3. Noteworthy Airport Specialty Coffee Shops**
– **Stumptown Coffee Roasters at Portland International Airport (PDX):** Renowned for its direct trade relationships and meticulous roasting techniques, Stumptown offers passengers a taste of Portland’s celebrated coffee culture directly at the airport.
– **Joe & The Juice at Copenhagen Airport (CPH):** This Danish brand merges fresh juices with specialty coffee, providing a refreshing and energizing experience for travelers.
– **Blue Bottle Coffee at San Francisco International Airport (SFO):** Originating from Oakland, Blue Bottle is famed for its commitment to freshness, often serving coffee within 48 hours of roasting.
– **Flat White at London Heathrow Airport (LHR):** Bringing a touch of New Zealand’s coffee culture to London, Flat White offers skillfully crafted espresso drinks.
**4. Tips for Discovering Exceptional Coffee at the Airport**
– **Research in Advance:** Before your journey, look up the airport’s website or travel forums for details on the coffee shops available. Many airports now publish dining options online, complete with reviews and menus.
– **Consult the Locals:** Airport staff and frequent fliers can often guide you to the best coffee locations.
– **Look for Quality Indicators:** Signs of a reputable coffee shop include a manual espresso machine, a variety of single-origin beans, and baristas who are knowledgeable about their offerings.
**5. The Future of Airport Coffee**
As the appetite for specialty coffee continues to rise, airports are likely to broaden their selections, incorporating more local and global coffee brands. This trend not only improves the travel experience but also supports sustainable coffee farming practices worldwide.
In conclusion, locating the finest specialty coffee at the airport is increasingly feasible as airports embrace the specialty coffee phenomenon. By seeking out these quality-driven establishments, travelers can enjoy an exceptional coffee experience that sets the stage for their upcoming journey.
