Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea's story begins in 1995 - a story not so different from many other entrepreneurs and dreamers. At the time, finding great tasting, fresh roasted coffee was surprisingly elusive. So, Doug Zell and Emily Mange decided to do something about it. They didn’t set out to change the world, just a small corner of it.

Relocating from San Francisco, they opened their own coffeebar and retail store in Chicago’s eclectic Lakeview neighborhood. Roasting their coffee in-store, with equipment that was more antique than state-of-the-art, they honed their craft, seeking nothing less than perfection in every aspect of the experience. Little did Doug and Emily know that what started as a way to connect with people and the community in an intimate, personal way would blossom into something that would help shape an entire industry.

Fast forward 21 years, and Intelligentsia still holds true to the values that have inspired them since day one. They have grown, they have evolved, but they certainly haven’t changed. Through their coffeebars, Roasting Works, and training labs, they now make their home in five quintessential American cities, each possessing distinctive characteristics that resonate within the Intelligentsia brand.

From Chicago, they inherit the Midwestern work ethic and pragmatism that embodies the city of Big Shoulders. Los Angeles inspires them to dream big. New York reminds them of the need to be authentic and to live up to their own lofty expectations. Atlanta’s unmistakable Southern charm creates a model for their commitment to service. And cosmopolitan San Francisco fuels their continual push for innovation. Alone, each of these attributes is formidable. Combined they define their commitment to sourcing, developing, roasting, and distributing the world’s finest coffees.

They didn’t adopt Direct Trade practices because it’s a trendy way to do business; they introduced the concept to the coffee industry. Their commitment to direct trade allows them to cut out unnecessary importers and exporters, and enables them to truly partner with their growers.

Their buying team travels the globe and is collectively in the field virtually every day of the year, sourcing new grower relationships and working with their existing farmers.

They meticulously collect data, insights, and best practices from all of our growing partners and share them to improve overall quality. They also tie adherence to sustainable farming and environmental practices with our commitment to paying above Fair Trade prices for truly outstanding coffee. This ensures responsible stewardship of the land, and a sustainable business model for our farmers, resulting in partnerships that thrive year after year. Because of this, they were able to provide you with exclusive, remarkable coffees you won’t find anywhere else.

They believe coffee in all its forms—whole bean, brewed, and espresso—should be an approachable, accessible luxury. Our goal is to make our coffee a memorable addition to any experience, and to make the act of preparing and enjoying a cup of our coffee an experience in and of itself.