Rooted in San José, Inspired by the World
Chromatic Coffee began with a question: What if coffee could be more than just a morning ritual? In 2012, a group of passionate, slightly rebellious coffee enthusiasts answered that question by founding Chromatic in the heart of San José. From the start, we’ve been about doing things differently—embracing the DIY ethos, staying fiercely independent, and always striving to craft coffee experiences that feel as alive and dynamic as the community we call home.
We’re not just coffee roasters; we’re creators, connectors, and curators. Our vision has always been to build a brand that’s as vibrant and diverse as the Bay Area itself. Through meticulous sourcing, innovative roasting, and a deep love for the craft, we’ve established ourselves as a hub for quality and creativity.
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ROASTERY LOCATION: 460 Lincoln Avenue, Suite 10, San Jose CA 95126 EMAIL: orders@chromaticcoffee.com PHONE NUMBER: (408) 753-1135 |
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The Chromatic Timeline: A Journey of Craft and Community
2012: The Beginning
Armed with little more than a shared dream and a garage full of roasting equipment, we roasted our first batch. Those early days were fueled by late nights, endless experiments, and a commitment to learning every aspect of the craft.
2013: The Unicorn Pony Era
Our first anniversary blend, Unicorn Pony, marked a turning point. What started as a whimsical experiment became a beloved favorite, showcasing our ability to innovate and have fun while delivering exceptional quality.
2015: Growing the Family
We expanded our relationships with producers, traveling to origin and forging direct trade partnerships. From Rosalio Ventura in Honduras to Luiz Roberto Saldanha in Brazil, these collaborations allowed us to support sustainable practices and celebrate the art of coffee farming.
2018: Pushing Boundaries
We introduced bold new processes and offerings, like our Parainema Reunion—a single-origin blend that challenged conventions and proved that innovation is our lifeblood.
2020: Resilience in Chaos
In the face of global uncertainty, we doubled down on our community. We launched virtual tastings and embraced creative ways to keep our customers connected to great coffee and to each other.
Today: The Future is Bright
Chromatic Coffee is now a cornerstone of San José’s vibrant culture, recognized for our distinct roasting style, transparent sourcing, and a lineup of coffees that’s as eclectic as it is excellent. We continue to evolve, but our foundation remains the same: craftsmanship, creativity, and community.
What Makes Chromatic Different?
Sourcing with Purpose
We work directly with producers who share our values of sustainability and innovation. Our long-term relationships ensure transparency, equity, and access to some of the most remarkable coffees in the world.
The Art of Roasting
Roasting is where science meets artistry. We treat every coffee as a unique canvas, bringing out its natural flavors while crafting profiles that resonate with a sense of place. Whether it’s the citrus-forward notes of an Ethiopian gesha or the chocolatey depth of a Brazilian natural, our coffees are designed to delight and inspire.
A Culture of Connection
Chromatic Coffee is more than a company; it’s a collective of dreamers, doers, and makers. Our team is driven by a shared passion for quality and a belief in the power of coffee to bring people together. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just discovering specialty coffee, you’re welcome here.
DIY Spirit, Professional Excellence
We’ve always embraced the ethos of rolling up our sleeves and doing things ourselves. From designing our own branding to building relationships with farmers and experimenting in our roasting lab, everything we do reflects a hands-on approach and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Chromatic Coffee is a labor of love. It’s a story of creativity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to crafting coffee that’s as bold and inspiring as the people who drink it. Join us on this journey—we’re just getting started.