When I think about Disney, good coffee is the last thing that comes to mind. The quality of coffee has been an often complaint from patrons of Disney Resorts and theme parks. So when I heard that Disney was partnering with Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company, I had to give it a try.
First a bit about Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company, the Tampa upstart that got its name and identity from the famous Joffrey Ballet. The company started operations in 1984 and had its second milestone in 1995 when it opened its first kiosk in Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park. Joffrey’s mantra is growth, so it’s no surprise that the company has grown 100+ flavors of coffees and teas. For more about Joffrey’s story, you can visit it here.
The most impressive of its coffee and teas is the Disney Parks & Resorts Specialty Coffee Collection. Currently there are 20 different coffees in this product line. Prices range from $12.95 to $14.95, however, there is one coffee — the Kona Blend — that prices at $19.99. All prices are for 16 oz. package of ground coffee, whole bean, or French Press.
I sampled the Flavors of Africa ground coffee inspired by Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Villas Resort. The product description lists it being “a welcomed diner guest for grilled seafood, roasted meats and house-baked pastries,” however, this coffee is great anywhere, anytime, and with anything. It was even great brewing in K-Cup refillables. I’ve noticed K-Cup brewing takes some of the boldness out of some coffees, however, this one remained true to form — a feat not easily accomplished. There was nothing I looked more forward to than brewing a pot of this delicious coffee on a Saturday morning. Staring off in my backyard while sipping this bold dark African blend of caffeinated pixie dust! This coffee was worth every penny of the $14.95 price tag.
I must admit after trying Flavors of Africa I didn’t think I needed to try another coffee but decided to splurge on the Kona Blend. Although this coffee is inspired by Disney’s Polynesian Resort, the coffee bean itself is from Central America. Like the Flavors of Africa, either brewing technique will work well, but this coffee is less acidic and very mild. Overall, this was a good coffee and worth the money even at the pricier $19.99 level.
I did sample another dark coffee, but this one was a blend from Central America, Indonesia, and Africa. It was like taking a ride on the monorail from the Contemporary Resort over to EPCOT and sampling the entire World Showcase! The California Grill coffee was inspired by the Contemporary Resort and, true to advertising, does have a lingering finish. Joffrey’s website also recommends pairing it with chocolate cake, but then again I could pair chocolate cake with pretty much anything. Fact is the coffee is good alone or with the chocolate Cake. This coffee is priced at a modest $14.95 similar to the Flavors of Africa.
Next on the docket will be Flying Fish Café inspired by Disney’s Boardwalk and Sanna Blend anther Animal Kingdom Resort. I am a little psyched for the Flying Fish and the Sanna simply because I prefer darker more acidic blends. I will be sure to post back here to put my stamp of approval (or disapproval) once I’ve sampled them.