Savor the Freshness: Unwind Cafe Brews Innovation on Campus
The Scent of Innovation: A New Chapter for Campus Coffee
A delightful aroma of freshly roasted coffee now wafts through the University of Pittsburgh campus, heralding the arrival of Unwind, a new cafe boasting its own on-site roastery. Situated within The Eatery, the university's primary dining establishment, Unwind has made a significant leap from procuring pre-roasted beans to producing its own, marking a notable enhancement in campus culinary offerings. Visible from Forbes Avenue, a state-of-the-art Diedrich DR-5 roaster stands proudly in the Unwind kitchen, a testament to this commitment to freshness.
Crafting Unique Blends: The Art of In-House Roasting
Under the management of Pitt Eats, a division of Chartwells Higher Ed, Unwind has embraced the craft of in-house coffee roasting. Tony Loukas, the Retail Manager for Pitt Eats, has taken on the role of head roaster, meticulously developing four signature blends. These include the bright Oakland Roast, the robust Roc’s Roast, the rich Panther Perk espresso blend, and the decaffeinated 787 Blend, ensuring a diverse selection to satisfy every palate. This transition underscores a dedication to providing a unique and high-quality coffee experience.
A Collaborative Spirit: Nurturing Roasting Expertise
Recognizing the immense potential for education and development within this new venture, Loukas initiated a valuable partnership with Jean M. Swoope, President and CEO of Pittsburgh-based Coffee Tree Roasters. This collaboration focuses on comprehensive training and guidance in the intricate process of coffee roasting. Swoope expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to share their extensive knowledge, particularly given Coffee Tree Roasters' long-standing relationship with the University of Pittsburgh and their deep connection to the Diedrich brand.
Mentorship and Growth: Expanding the Roasting Program
Keisho Akamatsu, Coffee Tree's head of coffee and lead roaster, is actively mentoring and supervising Tony Loukas, empowering him with the expertise needed to manage the roasting operations. The vision extends beyond just Loukas, as plans are in motion to expand the roasting team, allowing Loukas to impart his newly acquired skills to future workers. This ensures the sustainability and growth of the program, fostering a new generation of coffee artisans on campus. The shared history with Diedrich roasters, a brand both companies cherish, adds a layer of serendipity to this partnership.
Modern Brews: Serving Excellence to the Community
Within The Eatery's vibrant open food court, Unwind baristas skillfully prepare a variety of beverages using advanced equipment, including a Thermoplan superautomatic espresso machine and a Bunn batch brewer. Essential supplies like milks and syrups are provided through Iron Star Roasting, Coffee Tree’s sister company specializing in equipment and distribution. The cafe is poised for its official grand opening with the commencement of classes, ready to serve the university community with its exceptional, freshly roasted coffee offerings.