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Frequently Asked Questions
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Product Specific
What is Dubai Chocolate Coffee?
Our take on the Dubai chocolate bar that broke the internet, that crispy-kataifi-pistachio-milk-chocolate combination. We layered rich milk chocolate, toasted pistachio, warm vanilla, and a hint of cardamom-like spice onto our smooth organic medium-roast Arabica. Indulgent and dessert-forward without being syrupy. Available in regular and Swiss Water decaf.
What does Cinnamon Hazelnut Coffee taste like?
Warm cinnamon and toasted hazelnut with a hint of vanilla, like a fresh-baked nut roll in your cup. Smooth, cozy, bakery-forward. Brews like any regular coffee. Available in regular and Swiss Water decaf.
What does Blueberry Cobbler Coffee taste like?
Sweet, ripe blueberry up front, with notes of buttery cobbler crumble, brown sugar, and warm vanilla on the finish. Bright but indulgent, fruity without being tart, sweet without being syrupy. Available in regular and Swiss Water decaf.
What's the best way to brew the new flavored coffees?
Drip with about 20% more grounds than your usual dose brings out the flavor nicely. French press or cold brew brings out even more. The Blueberry Cobbler in particular makes a beautiful sweet cold brew.
Can I subscribe to the new flavors?
Yes, all three new flavors (regular and decaf) are available for subscription with the standard 10% subscription discount.
Does the Aloha Bean actually taste like hazelnut?
It's a Hawaiian-style hazelnut with tropical undertones, a touch warmer and rounder than a classic European hazelnut coffee. Many customers love it: "Best hazelnut coffee available! I use a coffee grinder and French press and love the subtle roasted hazelnut." A subset of buyers detect coconut notes more than hazelnut, particularly in the whole bean version. If you want a classic, bold European hazelnut without any tropical influence, it may not be the right pick.
How does whole bean Aloha Bean compare to ground in flavor intensity?
Multiple customers report the ground version delivers stronger hazelnut flavor. If flavor intensity is important, choose the ground version or grind your whole beans finer than usual.
Is Aloha Bean available in decaf?
Yes, DECAF Organic Aloha Bean (Hawaiian Hazelnut). Same flavor profile, decaffeinated using the Swiss Water Process.
How strong is the cinnamon and vanilla flavor in Holiday Bean?
Subtle and warm, not a heavily spiced coffee. Customers who love it describe it as: "Warm and comforting coffee to drink during the winter, if you like cinnamon, you'll love this." If you want strong spice intensity, this won't be the right match, but if you want a smooth bakery-style coffee, this is one of our most-loved.
Is Holiday Bean available year-round?
Yes, available year-round on our website. "I bought this coffee around the holidays about three years ago, and I haven't bought any other coffee since."
Is Holiday Bean available in decaf?
Yes, DECAF Organic Holiday Bean (Vanilla Cinnamon Spice), decaffeinated using the Swiss Water Process whole bean and ground.
Does Pumpkin Spice actually taste like pumpkin spice?
Reviews are split. Many customers love it: "Pumpkin coffee that actually tastes like pumpkin!" Others find the natural flavor more subtle than they expected. The flavor is genuine pumpkin spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, but at natural-extract intensity rather than artificial-syrup intensity. French press or cold brew brings out significantly more flavor than drip.
Is Pumpkin Spice available in decaf?
Yes, DECAF Organic Pumpkin Spice, available in both whole bean and ground.
How should I brew Pumpkin Spice for maximum flavor?
Use about 20% more grounds than your usual ratio, brew with a French press or cold brew method, and consider adding a small pinch of pumpkin pie spice to your grounds if you want stronger spice intensity. Several customers do this successfully.
How strong is the peppermint and mocha flavor?
This is one of our most polarizing flavors. The natural peppermint and chocolate flavors are inherently more subtle than the artificially flavored Starbucks-style peppermint mocha that many customers are comparing it to. Customers who expect a delicate, smooth peppermint-and-chocolate finish love it: "Smooth and subtle, the flavor is subtle but pleasing." Customers expecting candy-cane intensity are often disappointed. If you want strong peppermint, add a peppermint creamer or a small amount of chocolate sauce to the brewed coffee, that combination is what most fans of Starbucks Peppermint Mocha end up doing at home.
Is Peppermint Mocha better hot or cold?
Cold brew brings out more flavor. Multiple customers specifically buy this for holiday cold brew. Hot brewing works too, especially with a chocolate creamer.
Is Peppermint Mocha available in decaf?
Yes, DECAF Organic Peppermint Mocha. A popular dessert-coffee option: "We like a 'dessert' coffee after dinner each evening and this one really works for us."
What's the difference between Vanilla Nut and Vanilla Bean?
Vanilla Nut has a subtle nutty undertone alongside the vanilla, a slightly richer, sweeter profile. Vanilla Bean is a cleaner, more straightforward vanilla. Both are medium roasts using natural flavor extracts. Many customers buy both and mix them: "I mix the vanilla bean or hazelnut coffee and make a delicious iced mocha coffee in the morning."
Will I taste vanilla, or does it just taste like regular coffee?
Expect a subtle vanilla note, not a strong vanilla flavor. Many customers describe it as the perfect "transition" coffee for people moving away from flavored creamers toward drinking coffee black: "Smooth but still complex, with a hint of natural vanilla and no odd chemical aftertaste." If you want prominent vanilla flavor, this may be too subtle.
Does it contain artificial vanilla?
No, we use only natural vanilla flavoring (organic-certified, derived from real vanilla). One customer: "Smooth true vanilla bean flavor, NOTHING artificial or chemically tasting about it!"
Are your espresso products ground for espresso machines?
Yes, all of our espresso products (Il Espresso, Premium Espresso) are ground at espresso fineness, ready to use directly in an espresso machine. If you want a coarser grind for drip coffee makers, pour-over, French press, or Moka pots, choose the whole bean version and grind to your preferred coarseness at home.
Does Mocha Java taste like mocha (chocolate) flavored coffee?
Mocha Java is a traditional name for a coffee blend known for natural chocolatey, fruity, and earthy notes, not a chocolate-flavored coffee. Our take on Mocha Java delivers that classic flavor profile using our own carefully selected USDA Organic Arabica beans. Smooth, low-acid, with subtle chocolate and fruit notes from the beans themselves, no added flavoring.
What does Mocha Java taste like?
Customer descriptions: "smooth taste with less acidity," "slight hint of chocolate, medium roast without bitterness," "mellow and fruity," "smooth, nutty coffee." A dedicated drinker summed it up: "Absolutely best blend, coffee drinker's coffee."
How dark is Il Chicco?
A genuine dark roast with a notably smooth profile, no burnt or harsh edges. Multiple customers describe it as: "None of the bitterness of espresso blends but ALL of the flavor of dark coffee" and "robust without being harsh." One customer with chronic heartburn said: "My doctor told me not to drink coffee anymore. This coffee is it, I drink two cups a day and it never contributes to any heartburn."
Are the beans oily? Will they clog my grinder or espresso machine?
The beans are slightly oily, as expected from a dark roast. One customer with a DeLonghi Magnifica noted: "The beans are slightly oily but have not presented a problem in our machine. The taste is great, with a smooth texture."
Is Il Chicco available in decaf?
Yes, DECAF Organic Il Chicco, decaffeinated using the Swiss Water Process.
How dark is Breakfast Blend?
Breakfast Blend is a medium-dark roast, bolder and fuller-bodied than a typical breakfast blend, but still smooth and approachable. It has more depth than a straight medium roast without the heavy or smoky notes of a full dark roast. Customers describe it as "smooth, full-bodied, and never bitter."
Is Breakfast Blend good for cold brew?
Yes, the medium-dark roast brings out a rich, smooth body that holds up beautifully in cold brew. Use a coarse grind, a 1:4 ratio of grounds to cold water, and steep in the fridge 12-18 hours.
Does the DECAF South America Blend taste like "real" coffee?
For most customers, yes, it's one of our most-praised decafs. "This is amazingly surprisingly strong coffee, not weak at all. I highly recommend it." Customers report rich flavor, low bitterness, and low acidity, even compared to other specialty decaf brands.
Are these good everyday coffees?
Yes, these are the workhorse organic medium roasts in our lineup. Customers describe South America Blend as "smooth, not bitter, low acid" and "rich and bold flavor." California Blend earns similar praise: "Wonderfully smooth, subtle, fluid taste, undoubtedly carefully roasted." Both make excellent everyday cups.
Is Suzi's Power Bean the strongest coffee in the lineup?
It's the darkest and most bold of our standard ground coffees. Bold but never bitter: "Dark roast with great aroma but no bitterness or sour taste, very smooth." Another enthusiast: "Even if you choose to brew this making it quite strong, there is absolutely no burnt taste that dark roasted coffees sometimes have."
Is Suzi's Power Bean available in decaf?
Not under the Suzi's name. For a dark-roast decaf, our DECAF Le Bean (French Roast) or DECAF Il Chicco are the closest equivalents.
Shipping & Delivery
How long does shipping take?
Orders are typically processed within 1-2 business days (most ship within 24 hours). Once shipped, delivery times depend on the carrier: USPS Priority Mail takes 1-4 days, UPS Ground takes 1-6 days. Orders placed on weekends and holidays ship the next business day.
Do you offer free shipping?
Yes, free shipping on all retail orders $65 or more. Orders under $65 ship via the lowest-cost carrier and the shipping cost is calculated at checkout. Free shipping does not apply to wholesale orders.
When will my order ship?
Most orders ship within 24 hours of being placed. Standard handling time is 1-2 business days, Monday through Friday. Orders placed Saturday, Sunday, or on a holiday ship the next business day.
Where do you ship?
We ship across the United States. We do not currently offer international shipping.
How do I track my order?
As soon as your order ships, you'll get an email with a tracking number. You can also log in to your account on our website to see all your past orders and tracking links in one place.
Can I change or cancel my order after it's placed?
We ship fast, usually within 24 hours, so reach out by email or phone as soon as possible if you need to change or cancel. If the order hasn't gone out yet, we'll do our best to update it.
My order says delivered but I didn't receive it, what should I do?
First check with neighbors, your building manager, or anyone in your household. If you still can't find it after 24 hours, contact us at contact@thebeancoffeecompany.com with your order number and we'll help track it down and work with the carrier.
Can I get coffee shipped to a PO Box?
Yes, USPS Priority Mail delivers to PO Boxes. UPS does not deliver to PO Boxes, so if you choose UPS at checkout you'll need a street address.
Can I change the grind type or quantity on my order after I've placed it?
Yes, but the answer depends on whether your order has shipped yet.
Before your order ships: Email contact@thebeancoffeecompany.com or call (800) 683-7967 as soon as possible. If your order hasn't been packed yet, we're happy to swap whole bean for ground (or vice versa), change a flavor, or adjust quantity, at no charge. We ship most orders within 24 hours, so move quickly.
After your order has shipped: We can still swap whole bean for ground (or the reverse), but you'll be responsible for return shipping. We can email you a prepaid return label, our negotiated label rate is usually lower than buying postage at the counter, so we'll invoice you for the cost of the label rather than asking you to pay at the carrier. Once the return arrives, we'll send out the correct product right away.
Before your order ships: Email contact@thebeancoffeecompany.com or call (800) 683-7967 as soon as possible. If your order hasn't been packed yet, we're happy to swap whole bean for ground (or vice versa), change a flavor, or adjust quantity, at no charge. We ship most orders within 24 hours, so move quickly.
After your order has shipped: We can still swap whole bean for ground (or the reverse), but you'll be responsible for return shipping. We can email you a prepaid return label, our negotiated label rate is usually lower than buying postage at the counter, so we'll invoice you for the cost of the label rather than asking you to pay at the carrier. Once the return arrives, we'll send out the correct product right away.
Subscriptions
Do you offer subscriptions?
Yes, and you save 10% off every order with a subscription. You can subscribe to any product on the site, choose your delivery frequency (every 7, 14, 21, 30, 45, 60, 90, or 120 days), and skip, pause, or cancel anytime from your account. Need a custom interval (say, every 37 days)? Email us, we can set that up on the back end.
How do I manage my subscription?
Log in to your account at thebeancoffeecompany.com/account. From there you can change the next delivery date, swap to a different flavor, change frequency, skip a shipment, or cancel. If you'd rather talk to a human, email contact@thebeancoffeecompany.com.
Can I swap the flavor in my subscription?
Yes. Log in to your account, open your subscription, and choose a different product. Your subscription discount stays the same. Many of our subscribers rotate between their favorites, Aloha Bean one month, Holiday Bean the next.
How do I pause or skip a delivery?
From your account, open the subscription, click "Skip next delivery," or choose a new delivery date. You can skip as many shipments as you want without canceling.
How do I cancel my subscription?
Open the subscription in your account and click Cancel. There's no fee and no commitment. If you have any trouble, email us and we'll handle it immediately.
When am I charged for a subscription order?
Your card is charged when the next order is placed, not earlier. You'll get an email a few days before each shipment so you have time to skip or change it if needed.
Can I get a custom subscription frequency that isn't in the dropdown?
Yes. The site offers 7, 14, 21, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 days as the standard options. If you need something different (say every 37 days, or every 5 weeks), email contact@thebeancoffeecompany.com and we'll set it up on the back end for you.
What happens if a product in my subscription goes out of stock?
We'll email you. Because we roast to order, almost everything stays in stock, but if a specific flavor is temporarily unavailable, you can either wait for the next batch or swap to another flavor for that delivery.
Is the subscription discount stackable with other promo codes?
The 10% subscription discount applies to every recurring order. We generally don't stack additional promo codes on top of the subscription discount, but check the cart page, it'll show you the final price before you confirm.
About Us & Company
Who is The Bean Coffee Company?
The Bean Coffee Company is a small, independent organic coffee roaster based in Oceanside, California (San Diego County). We're a tight-knit team of eight, roasting certified USDA Organic, Arabica beans in small batches every day and shipping within 1-2 business days. Every bag is roasted to order, never sitting on a warehouse shelf.
Where is your coffee roasted?
All of our coffee is roasted in small batches at our facility in Oceanside, California, just north of San Diego. Local, hands-on roasting is how we keep flavor consistent and freshness high. The full mailing address is 1407 South Coast Highway, Oceanside, CA 92054.
How do I contact The Bean Coffee Company?
Email us at contact@thebeancoffeecompany.com or call (800) 683-7967, Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm Pacific. We typically respond to emails within one business day.
Is The Bean Coffee Company a big corporation?
No, we're a small, independent San Diego-based roaster, not part of any major coffee conglomerate. Our team is eight people. Same crew that roasts the beans packs the bags and ships your order. It's a small operation by design, small enough to taste every batch before it goes out the door.
Do you offer wholesale or bulk pricing for businesses?
Yes. We work with cafés, offices, and retailers through our wholesale program. You can browse and order through our Faire storefront at thebeancoffeecompany.faire.com, or email contact@thebeancoffeecompany.com for direct wholesale inquiries.
What makes The Bean Coffee Company different from other coffee brands?
Three things customers mention most: (1) smooth, low-acid coffee that's gentle on the stomach, (2) natural flavoring, never artificial, for our flavored varieties, and (3) consistent freshness roast after roast. As one long-time customer put it: "We have been buying this coffee for many years and the quality never varies, it is always amazingly good."
Why does organic coffee from The Bean cost more than grocery store brands?
Three reasons: certified organic Arabica beans, small-batch local roasting in San Diego, and natural (not artificial) flavoring on our flavored varieties. Daily drinkers tend to justify the cost with comments like: "We pay a little more but if we are drinking it every day we need to choose the cleanest option." Our 5-lb bulk bags offer significantly better per-ounce value for regular drinkers.
Do you donate coffee or gift cards for fundraisers, silent auctions, or community events?
Thank you for thinking of us, we receive many thoughtful requests from organizations doing meaningful work, and we appreciate every one of them. Unfortunately, due to the high volume of requests we receive, we're not able to provide donations or sponsorships at this time. We're a small team and have made the decision to focus our limited resources on roasting and shipping great coffee to our customers. We deeply appreciate your understanding and wish you all the best with your event.
Storage & Freshness
How should I store whole bean or ground coffee?
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use the resealable zip-lock on the bag, or transfer to an airtight container after opening. Coffee stays at peak flavor for 2-4 weeks after opening at room temperature.
Can I freeze or refrigerate my coffee?
No, we recommend against freezing or refrigerating your coffee. Coffee beans are porous and tend to absorb oxygen, moisture, and odors from the freezer or fridge, which can damage the flavor over time. Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, using the resealable closure on the bag (1-lb bags) or an airtight container (5-lb bags, once opened).
How do I know if my coffee is fresh?
Fresh coffee has a strong, pleasant aroma the moment you open the bag. Whole beans should feel firm, not dry. Ground coffee should smell bright and fragrant, not flat or musty. If a bag has no aroma at all, contact us, that usually means it lost its seal in transit.
How long does ground coffee stay fresh?
About 2-3 weeks at peak after opening. Sealed in the bag with the one-way valve, it stays fresh much longer.
How long does whole bean coffee stay fresh?
Whole beans stay fresh significantly longer than ground, typically 4-8 weeks at peak after opening when stored properly. Grinding exposes much more surface area to air, which is why ground coffee oxidizes faster.
What is the shelf life of your coffee?
Unopened, in our original bags with the one-way freshness valve, our coffee has a best-by date of 18 months from the roast date. Once opened, plan to use ground coffee within 2-3 weeks and whole bean within 4-8 weeks for peak flavor, though it remains safe to drink well beyond that.
How is the coffee packaged to stay fresh?
Our 1-lb bags have a built-in zip-lock closure and a one-way freshness valve. The valve lets CO2 from freshly roasted beans escape without letting oxygen in. Our 5-lb bags have the same freshness valve but no built-in zipper, for the 5-lb size, transfer to an airtight container after opening. Customers consistently praise the packaging: "Freshness? The packaging is great, with the built-in zip-lock. You know your beans will remain as fresh as possible."
I opened the bag and there's no aroma, is the coffee stale?
Fresh coffee has a strong, distinctive aroma. No aroma usually means the bag lost its seal in transit or sat in storage too long. Contact us at contact@thebeancoffeecompany.com, we'll send a replacement.
Brewing Methods
How much coffee should I use per cup?
The standard ratio is 1-2 tablespoons of ground coffee per 6 oz of water. If you like it stronger, go to 2 rounded tablespoons. Most of our customers land at about 2 tablespoons per 8 oz cup for a smooth, full-bodied brew.
What water temperature is best for brewing coffee?
195-205°F. Boiling water (212°F) can scorch the grounds and create bitterness. Most drip machines automatically hit the right range; for pour-over or French press, let your kettle sit for 30 seconds off the boil.
What grind setting should I use?
It depends on your brew method:
- Drip coffee maker or pour-over: Medium grind
- French press: Coarse grind
- Cold brew: Coarse grind
- Espresso machine: Fine grind
- Moka pot (stovetop espresso): Medium-fine grind
- Drip coffee maker or pour-over: Medium grind
- French press: Coarse grind
- Cold brew: Coarse grind
- Espresso machine: Fine grind
- Moka pot (stovetop espresso): Medium-fine grind
What's the best brew method for flavored coffee?
French press and cold brew tend to bring out more flavor from naturally-flavored coffees, because the longer contact time extracts more of the flavor compounds. Drip works too, just use slightly more grounds (about 20% more than your usual amount).
How do I make cold brew with your coffee?
Use a coarse grind. A 1:4 ratio works well, 1 cup of coffee to 4 cups of cold water. Steep in the fridge 12-18 hours, then strain. Our dark roasts (Suzi's Power Bean, Le Bean French Roast, Il Chicco) make particularly bold cold brew, and our flavored coffees produce delicious sweet iced lattes.
My coffee tastes weak, what can I do?
Increase your dose. Use 2 rounded tablespoons per 6 oz of water (or 2 tablespoons per 8 oz cup). For flavored varieties especially, going 20-30% above your usual dose brings out more flavor.
My coffee tastes burnt or bitter. What's wrong?
Our coffees are generally praised for smoothness and low bitterness. If yours tastes burnt, check:
- Water temperature: Above 205°F can scorch grounds; aim for 195-205°F
- Over-extraction: Too much time, too fine a grind, or too much coffee per water volume
- Stale beans: Check the aroma when you open the bag, fresh coffee should smell fragrant
- Roast match: If you ordered a dark roast and prefer medium, the roast itself may be too dark for your preference
- Water temperature: Above 205°F can scorch grounds; aim for 195-205°F
- Over-extraction: Too much time, too fine a grind, or too much coffee per water volume
- Stale beans: Check the aroma when you open the bag, fresh coffee should smell fragrant
- Roast match: If you ordered a dark roast and prefer medium, the roast itself may be too dark for your preference
Returns & Refunds
What is your return policy?
Our return policy lasts 30 days from the date of purchase. If you're not happy with your order, email contact@thebeancoffeecompany.com or call (800) 683-7967 and we'll make it right, that can mean a replacement, a refund, or a swap, depending on the situation.
This is also our satisfaction guarantee: if something is not right, we fix it.
This is also our satisfaction guarantee: if something is not right, we fix it.
How do I request a refund?
Email contact@thebeancoffeecompany.com with your order number and the reason for the return. Once we receive and inspect your return, we'll let you know whether it's approved and process the refund to your original payment method.
Do refunds include shipping?
Refunds cover the product cost only, they don't include the original shipping cost. If you received free shipping (orders over $65), we deduct the original shipping cost from the refund.
My order arrived damaged. What do I do?
Take a quick photo of the damage and email it to contact@thebeancoffeecompany.com with your order number. We replace damaged products quickly, usually a new bag goes out within one business day. You don't need to ship the damaged bag back.
Note: 5-lb bags are more prone to seal issues in transit. If your 5-lb bag arrives open, the same applies: photo, order number, quick replacement.
Note: 5-lb bags are more prone to seal issues in transit. If your 5-lb bag arrives open, the same applies: photo, order number, quick replacement.
I received the wrong product. What do I do?
Email us with your order number and a photo if possible. We'll send the correct product right away. You don't need to ship the wrong one back.
Can I return coffee if I just don't like the flavor?
Yes, within 30 days of purchase. Reach out to us and we'll work with you, that might mean a refund or a swap to a different flavor that suits you better. We'd rather help you find a coffee you love than have you stuck with one you don't.
What items can't be returned?
Gift cards are non-returnable. Everything else is eligible within 30 days.
Roast Levels
What's the difference between a medium-dark roast and a traditional dark roast?
Medium-dark sits between a standard medium roast and a full dark, past first crack but pulled before the beans take on heavy or smoky character. You get a fuller body and richer flavor than a medium, but the natural character of the bean (chocolate, fruit, sweetness) still comes through. Our Breakfast Blend is a good medium-dark example.
Traditional dark roast goes longer in the roaster, the beans develop a darker color with a light sheen of oil, and the flavor shifts toward bold, smoky, slightly bittersweet notes. The roast itself becomes the dominant flavor rather than the bean's origin. Lower perceived acidity, very smooth on the stomach. Our Il Chicco (Italian-style) and Le Bean (French Roast) are good dark roast examples.
If you want fuller body with bean character still coming through, go medium-dark. If you want the classic bold, smoky dark-roast experience, go dark.
Traditional dark roast goes longer in the roaster, the beans develop a darker color with a light sheen of oil, and the flavor shifts toward bold, smoky, slightly bittersweet notes. The roast itself becomes the dominant flavor rather than the bean's origin. Lower perceived acidity, very smooth on the stomach. Our Il Chicco (Italian-style) and Le Bean (French Roast) are good dark roast examples.
If you want fuller body with bean character still coming through, go medium-dark. If you want the classic bold, smoky dark-roast experience, go dark.
Which roast has the most caffeine?
Roughly the same. There's a popular myth that dark roasts have more caffeine, actually the opposite is slightly true. Longer roasting breaks down caffeine, so lighter roasts retain a tiny bit more. But the difference is small enough that you'd never notice. What actually moves the dial on caffeine is the brew strength (coffee-to-water ratio) and brew method, not the roast level.
What's the difference between French Roast and Italian Roast?
Both are dark roasts, but Italian Roast (our Il Chicco) is roasted slightly longer and darker than French Roast (our Le Bean). Italian Roast tends to have a more pronounced smoky, full-bodied character, the classic espresso-bar profile. French Roast is rich and bold but a touch lighter, with a bit more sweetness coming through. Both work beautifully for drip, pour-over, and especially cold brew. Pick by preference: smokier and fuller → Il Chicco. Slightly sweeter and rounder → Le Bean.
Which of your roasts is the smoothest?
Most of our coffees are praised for smoothness and low acidity, that's a signature of how we roast. If smoothness is your top priority, our medium roasts (South America Blend, California Blend, Mocha Java) and our smoother dark roasts (Il Chicco) are good starting points. Customers with sensitive stomachs and acid reflux often go for Il Chicco or our Swiss Water decafs. Avoid extremely bold roasts (Suzi's Power Bean) if you want maximum smoothness, it's bold by design.
What is a Full City roast?
Full City is a medium-dark roast, the point where beans are pulled just before they take on the darker, oilier character of a true dark roast. It has more body and boldness than a standard medium without the smoky or heavy notes of a full dark. Think of it as the bridge between medium and dark, bolder than your typical medium roast, but still smooth and easy to drink.
How do I pick the right roast level for me?
A few questions to ask yourself:
1. Do you like the natural flavor of the bean coming through (fruit, chocolate, sweetness)? Go lighter, medium or medium-dark roast.
2. Do you like bold, smoky, classic 'coffee shop' flavor? Go darker, dark roast or French/Italian style.
3. Do you have a sensitive stomach? Darker roasts have lower perceived acidity and tend to be gentler.
4. What's your brew method? Drip and pour-over work well with all roasts. Espresso machines pull better with medium-dark to dark. Cold brew is fantastic with darker roasts.
If you're new to specialty coffee, start with a medium roast like our South America Blend, it's a balanced introduction that works with most brewing methods.
1. Do you like the natural flavor of the bean coming through (fruit, chocolate, sweetness)? Go lighter, medium or medium-dark roast.
2. Do you like bold, smoky, classic 'coffee shop' flavor? Go darker, dark roast or French/Italian style.
3. Do you have a sensitive stomach? Darker roasts have lower perceived acidity and tend to be gentler.
4. What's your brew method? Drip and pour-over work well with all roasts. Espresso machines pull better with medium-dark to dark. Cold brew is fantastic with darker roasts.
If you're new to specialty coffee, start with a medium roast like our South America Blend, it's a balanced introduction that works with most brewing methods.
Decaf & Caffeine
Does decaf still contain caffeine?
99.9% caffeine-free, in line with the Swiss Water Process standard. The trace amount is well below what most people would feel.
Does decaf taste different from regular?
Less than you'd expect with Swiss Water decaf. Because there are no chemical solvents stripping out flavor compounds along with the caffeine, our decaf retains nearly all the body and aroma of the regular version. One customer said: "This is amazingly surprisingly strong coffee, not weak at all. I highly recommend it." That was about our DECAF South America Blend.
Which decaf options do you have?
Yes. Every flavored coffee we make comes in both regular and Swiss Water decaf, from Aloha Bean and Vanilla Nut to the new launches (Blueberry Cobbler, Cinnamon Hazelnut, Dubai Chocolate). Our classic unflavored blends are covered too: DECAF South America Blend, DECAF California Blend, DECAF Le Bean French Roast, DECAF Il Chicco, and DECAF Mocha Java. Suzi's Power Bean is our unflavored bold dark and comes in regular only; for a dark-roast decaf, reach for DECAF Le Bean or DECAF Il Chicco.
Is there a half-caff option?
Yes, our 50/50 French Roast is a half-caff blend that pairs regular Le Bean French Roast with our Swiss Water decaf version. Perfect for cutting caffeine without cutting flavor.
How much caffeine is in your coffee?
Caffeine depends on how you brew it more than which roast you pick. A standard drip cup delivers full strength, espresso has less per shot than a full cup, and cold brew usually runs strongest. Our Swiss Water decaf is 99.9% caffeine-free, with only trace amounts left. Lighter roasts retain slightly more caffeine than darker roasts, but the difference is small. Want a stronger kick? Use more grounds per cup; that moves the dial far more than roast level.
Dietary & Allergens
Are your coffees vegan?
Yes — all of our coffees, including the flavored varieties, are vegan. Our natural flavor extracts are certified plant-based with no animal-derived ingredients.
Are your coffees gluten-free?
Yes — coffee beans themselves are naturally gluten-free, and the flavor extracts we use contain no gluten-bearing ingredients.
Are your coffees kosher?
Our natural flavor extracts have kosher certificates available upon request from our flavor supplier. Email contact@thebeancoffeecompany.com if you need specific certificate documentation.
Are your coffees halal?
Our flavor extracts contain no porcine ingredients and no animal-origin ingredients. Note that the natural flavor extracts use ethanol as a carrier during manufacturing (50–60% during extraction, much less in the finished coffee). If alcohol-based flavoring is a concern for your halal observance, please consult your standards before purchasing.
Do your flavored coffees contain any allergens?
Our coffee beans and natural flavor extracts do not contain the major allergens as ingredients. However, our flavor supplier's facility also handles products with milk, peanut, mango, peach, and sulfites. While our flavors themselves are not made with these allergens, trace cross-contact in the supplier's facility is possible. If you have a serious allergy, please consult your physician and contact us before purchasing.
Flavored Coffee
How strong is the flavor in your flavored coffees?
We use USDA Organic Certified natural flavoring, never artificial, so the flavor is more subtle and nuanced than artificially-flavored coffees. If you're used to heavily flavored creamers or coffee-shop syrups, expect something more like a fresh-baked pastry than a candy bar. Customers who prefer natural flavor specifically seek us out: "This brand has the best organic flavored coffee that I've found, flavor combinations are just right and nothing tastes fake or chemical."
Are all your flavors natural?
Yes, every flavored coffee in our lineup uses USDA Organic Certified natural flavor extracts only. No artificial flavors, no chemical solvents, no synthetic compounds. Our flavor extracts meet USDA Organic certification standards and are compliant with 21 CFR 101.22, the FDA's definition of natural flavoring.
Which flavored coffee has the most detectable flavor?
Customer feedback suggests our Aloha Bean (Hawaiian Hazelnut) and Vanilla Nut have the most detectable natural flavors, followed by the new Cinnamon Hazelnut and Blueberry Cobbler. Pumpkin Spice and Peppermint Mocha are more subtle by design, many customers love them, others prefer a stronger flavor.
Can I get flavored decaf?
Yes, every flavored coffee in our lineup is available in Swiss Water decaf, including the new launch flavors (Blueberry Cobbler, Cinnamon Hazelnut, Dubai Chocolate).
My flavored coffee tastes subtle. How do I get more flavor?
Before assuming the coffee is defective, try these adjustments:
1. Use more grounds: 20-30% above your usual amount
2. Switch brewing method: French press and cold brew extract significantly more flavor than drip
3. Check water temperature: 195-205°F is ideal, boiling water can scorch the grounds; under-heated water under-extracts
4. Check freshness: Old or improperly stored coffee loses flavor, the aroma when you open the bag is the best indicator
If none of these help, contact us, we sometimes get a batch that comes out less expressive than usual, and we'll replace it.
1. Use more grounds: 20-30% above your usual amount
2. Switch brewing method: French press and cold brew extract significantly more flavor than drip
3. Check water temperature: 195-205°F is ideal, boiling water can scorch the grounds; under-heated water under-extracts
4. Check freshness: Old or improperly stored coffee loses flavor, the aroma when you open the bag is the best indicator
If none of these help, contact us, we sometimes get a batch that comes out less expressive than usual, and we'll replace it.
Formats: K-Cups & Bulk
Do you offer K-Cup pods?
Yes. K-Cup options include:
- Organic House Blend K-Cups
- Organic Vanilla Bean Coffee Pods
- Organic Aloha Bean (Hawaiian Hazelnut) Pods
- Organic Pumpkin Spice K-Cups
- Organic Le Bean Decaf French Roast K-Cups
- 50/50 Half-Caff K-Cups
- Organic House Blend K-Cups
- Organic Vanilla Bean Coffee Pods
- Organic Aloha Bean (Hawaiian Hazelnut) Pods
- Organic Pumpkin Spice K-Cups
- Organic Le Bean Decaf French Roast K-Cups
- 50/50 Half-Caff K-Cups
Are your K-Cups compatible with all Keurig machines?
They're compatible with most Keurig models. A few customers using the newest Keurig models have noted occasional fit issues, if that happens to you, contact us. Try the smaller cup setting (6 oz) for a more concentrated brew if the pods taste weaker than you expect.
Do you offer bulk 5-lb bags?
Yes, every coffee in our lineup is available in a 5-lb bag. They're significantly better per-ounce value for daily drinkers. Note: the 5-lb bags do not have a built-in zip-lock closure (only the 1-lb bags do), so once you open a 5-lb bag we recommend transferring the coffee to an airtight container.
How long does a 5-lb bag stay fresh?
Around 3-5 weeks at peak for 1-2 daily drinkers. Once opened, transfer the coffee to an airtight container, the 5-lb bag itself does not have a built-in resealable closure. Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. We do not recommend freezing or refrigerating coffee.
Is the 5-lb bag the same quality as the 1-lb bag?
Identical. Same roast, same beans, same freshness. The only difference is bag size and closure, the 1-lb bag has a built-in zip-lock; the 5-lb bag does not, so transfer to an airtight container after opening. One customer confirmed the quality match: "I purchased the 16 oz first and it was the best hazelnut coffee I ever tasted. Then I purchased the 5-lb bag and the quality was the same."
Ingredients & Allergens
Are your coffees non-GMO?
Yes, our flavor extracts are certified non-GMO and have not been produced using gene modification or genetically modified organisms.
How many calories are in coffee?
Brewed black coffee contains essentially zero calories, coffee itself has no significant nutritional value when consumed without milk, cream, or sweetener. Our natural flavor extracts add no calories when used as a flavoring ingredient.
Does your flavored coffee contain sugar?
No added sugar. The natural sweetness in our flavored coffees (like Blueberry Cobbler or Vanilla Bean) comes from the natural flavor extracts themselves, not from added sweeteners. Brewed black, our flavored coffees still contain zero calories and zero sugar.
Are your coffees safe for people with acid reflux or sensitive stomachs?
Many of our customers with acid reflux drink our coffee specifically because it's smooth and low-acid. One review: "My mother quit drinking coffee a few years ago because of problems with acid reflux, but since trying this coffee, she can drink it again." That said, individual tolerance varies, start with a small bag if you're unsure. Our lower-acid favorites: Il Chicco, Mocha Java, and any of the Swiss Water decafs.
Organic & Certifications
Are the new launch flavors organic?
Yes. All three new flavors use USDA Organic Certified Arabica beans roasted in small batches in San Diego, with USDA Organic Certified natural flavor extracts.
Are your coffees USDA Organic certified?
Yes, every product under The Bean Coffee Company brand is USDA Organic certified. Our flavor extracts are also certified organic. This is one of our core promises: USDA Organic certified, all the time.
Where are the beans sourced?
We source globally from renowned Arabica growing regions, including Central and South America (Colombia, Brazil, Costa Rica, Guatemala), Indonesia, Africa, and Vietnam. All beans are USDA Organic certified.
Is your coffee fair trade certified?
We don't carry blanket Fair Trade certification on every product. We source from organic-certified farms and prioritize quality and consistency. If Fair Trade is a hard requirement for you, contact us for sourcing details on specific products.
Swiss Water Process
Is the low-acid profile maintained in decaf?
Yes. The Swiss Water Process doesn't change the natural pH of the coffee. Customers with acid reflux specifically seek out our decaf for this reason.
Is your decaf Swiss Water Processed or Mountain Water Processed?
All of our decaf uses the Swiss Water Process, across our entire current lineup, every flavor, every roast. We briefly tested Mountain Water for a short period in 2025 but have standardized on Swiss Water going forward for its consistency, traceability, and proven 99.9% caffeine removal. Both methods are chemical-free and broadly comparable in flavor preservation, but Swiss Water is our exclusive process today and for the foreseeable future. If you're switching from a Mountain Water decaf, expect a very similar clean, low-acid profile.
What is the Swiss Water Process?
Swiss Water is a fully chemical-free decaffeination method developed in Vancouver, British Columbia. Instead of using chemical solvents, methylene chloride and ethyl acetate are the two most common in commercial decaf production, Swiss Water uses only water, time, temperature, and a proprietary green coffee extract to gently remove 99.9% of the caffeine while preserving the beans' natural flavor compounds and oils.
The result: decaf that tastes like real coffee. No chemical residue, no harsh aftertaste, and the same smooth, low-acid profile our regular coffees are known for.
Every decaf in our lineup is decaffeinated using the Swiss Water Process. Never anything else.
The result: decaf that tastes like real coffee. No chemical residue, no harsh aftertaste, and the same smooth, low-acid profile our regular coffees are known for.
Every decaf in our lineup is decaffeinated using the Swiss Water Process. Never anything else.
Whole Bean vs Ground
Should I buy whole bean or ground coffee?
Whole bean delivers better freshness and flavor, beans don't start oxidizing until they're ground. If you have a grinder, whole bean is the way to go. If you don't, ground coffee is convenient and stays fresh in the sealed bag for several weeks. We sell both formats for every flavor in this lineup.
Is the flavor stronger in ground or whole bean?
For most coffees, the flavor is the same once brewed. With flavored varieties, several customers report that the ground version delivers slightly more intense flavor because the grinding releases more of the flavor compound. If flavor intensity is your priority, choose ground.
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