Island Bliss: The Perfect Morning Starts with Locally Roasted Coffee

And for those who know me, they know it never stops at just one. For many, coffee is an energy boost or a mid-day break to combat the afternoon slump. But for me, it’s a moment to reconnect with myself. That first sip of a well-brewed coffee awakens my senses. As I close my eyes, the warmth embraces me, and the rich, velvety flavors unfold on my tongue. Depending on what I’m brewing, notes of caramel, chocolate, and a hint of nuttiness dance together, while subtle earthy undertones remind me of the beans’ journey from the soil. A gentle bitterness lingers, balanced by a smooth, slightly sweet aftertaste. Each sip is a comforting wave, wrapping me in the aroma of roasted beans and offering a moment of peace, clarity, and satisfaction. It’s not just coffee—it’s a feeling. 

Living on the island of Aruba, we’re fortunate to have many great coffee options, from world-renowned franchises to charming local coffee shops. However, nothing beats that homemade cup brewed at 6 AM, just in time to sit on the porch and watch the breathtaking sunrise that only Aruba can offer. With your favorite blend in hand, the warm coffee aroma fills your home, creating the perfect start to the day. I’m sure many can relate to this cherished morning ritual. 

To fully enjoy this morning ritual—or any coffee break throughout the day—you need the best beans. Fortunately, Aruba is home to several coffee roasters that offer top-quality beans, perfect for brewing at home. I'm lucky to have access to such great options! 

Island Grind Coffee is renowned for its convenient drive-thru service, offering some of the best coffee on the island, all from the comfort of your car. With five locations strategically placed around Aruba, Island Grind Coffee is always just a short drive away.  

They roast their own 100% Arabica beans in small batches, responsibly sourced to ensure the highest quality. You can choose from their popular Brazil blend, which is creamy with notes of caramel and chocolate and a fruity finish; the famous Colombia Antioquia, with hints of cocoa, soft cane sweetness, and a mellow citrus acidity; or the Peru blend, featuring notes of apricot, ruby grapefruit, molasses, and natural sweetness. My personal favorite is the Island Grind Roast, a dark roast with irresistibly smooth notes of caramel and chocolate. Simply delicious! 

Cunucu Coffee Roasters are the new kids on the block, known for their weekend pop-up stores at various locations around the island. They offer a unique selection of locally roasted coffee beans, crafted in small batches at their own roastery to unlock hidden flavor notes. 

You can choose from six distinct blends, depending on your taste preferences. The Guatemala Huehuetenango offers notes of chocolate, almond, cane sugar, and green apple, while the Tanzania Mbeya is perfect for those who enjoy hints of dark chocolate and citrus. The Nicaragua La Bastilla Honey features roasted almond, strawberry, vanilla, and citrus flavors. The Colombia Tolima is a medium roast with raspberry, strawberry, dried apricot, cane sugar, and citrus zest notes. There are a few more blends to complete your coffee collection as well. 

Their user-friendly website, www.cunucucoffeeroasters.com, even offers the option to have your beans ground to suit your coffee machine. Cunucu Coffee Roasters roast their beans every Wednesday to ensure a fresh batch of coffee. 

If you grew up in Aruba and went to school on the island, you likely grew up listening to the adventures of Kompa Nanzi. Kompa Nanzi, a clever spider, was a beloved character whose stories were part of many children’s upbringing. So when the Kock brothers launched their coffee company, Kompa Nanzi, it immediately took me back to my childhood, filled with the tales of Nanzi's adventures. 

Kompa Nanzi's beans are USDA-certified organic, promoting the protection of forests and supporting farmers in the fight against climate change. These 100% Arabica beans are artisanally roasted and packaged in Aruba. Kompa Nanzi offers a single blend: the Classic Roast, a light-medium roast with notes of milk chocolate and medium acidity. A true story unfolds with every sip. 

Last but not least, there’s Aruba Coffee Roasting Company, often considered the godfather of coffee roasting on the island. As Aruba’s first micro-roaster, they are dedicated to providing the freshest roasted coffee from around the world. Located at the end of Mainstreet, next to Djiespie’s Place, they expertly roast beans from Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Sumatra, and Brazil. 

One thing is certain: with so many locally roasted coffee options, your mornings can be nothing short of perfect.