The Expresso Shoppe
ActiveOverview
The Expresso Shoppe is a small craft coffee roaster based near Chicago's O'Hare International Airport. It roasts and supplies coffee to restaurants, cafes, and home/office consumers in the Chicago area, with annual revenue around $7 million. The company specializes in its signature Carioca espresso blend and other specialty coffees.
History
Founded in 1982, The Expresso Shoppe has operated continuously as a craft roaster near O'Hare Airport. It has maintained its signature espresso recipe, originating from Rome and passed down through generations. The business expanded from supplying restaurants and cafes to include coffees for home and office use.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Carioca Espresso Blend | Signature Roman-origin espresso | $15 - $25 per lb |
| Specialty Roast Coffees | Unique blends for home/office | $12 - $22 per lb |
| Private Label Coffee | Custom roasts for businesses | $10 - $20 per lb |
Manufacturing
Coffee is craft roasted in-house at its facility in Bensenville, Illinois, near O'Hare Airport. Roasting has been conducted on-site since 1982 using proprietary recipes.
Notable Products
- Carioca Espresso - Signature espresso blend with a closely guarded Roman recipe roasted since 1982.
- Specialty Home Coffees - Unique roasts developed for retail home and office drinkers.
- Private Label Blends - Custom coffee roasts supplied to Chicago-area restaurants and cafes.
Reputation
The Expresso Shoppe is recognized locally as a longstanding craft roaster with a niche focus on its signature espresso. Professionals in the Chicago food service sector value its consistent supply to restaurants and cafes. Limited national visibility keeps it under the radar among broader coffee enthusiasts.