Passenger
ActiveOverview
Passenger Coffee is a coffee roastery and tea seller based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, focused on single-origin coffees and teas sourced globally from regions including Colombia, Ethiopia, and Kenya. It emphasizes supply chain transparency through annual reports and equitable practices, holding Certified B Corporation status. The company operates a roastery, coffee shop, and online sales, recognized by Food & Wine as top in Pennsylvania for both roasting and shop in 2022.
History
Founded in 2014 in Lancaster, PA, Passenger Coffee established itself by storing green coffee in a deep-freeze facility to maintain quality and consistency year-round. It became part of The Commons Company, a local B-Corp hospitality group. In 2022, it received Food & Wine awards for best coffee shop and roaster in Pennsylvania.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Origin Coffees | High-quality direct-trade beans | $18 - $30 per 12oz bag |
| Espresso Roasts | Developed for espresso and drip | $20 - $28 per 12oz bag |
| Loose-Leaf Teas | Single-origin global selections | $15 - $25 per 2oz |
| Coffee Subscriptions | Curated rotating selections | $20 - $40 monthly |
Manufacturing
Coffee roasting occurs in-house at their Lancaster, PA facility, with green beans stored in a deep-freeze upon arrival to preserve freshness. No manufacturing of coffee machines; focus is on roasting and packaging.
Notable Products
- Francy Marin Washed Colombia - Washed processed Colombian coffee reviewed for balanced flavors.
- Mullugeta Muntasha Washed Ethiopia - Ethiopian single-origin known for distinctive washed profile.
- Stowaway Espresso Blend - Versatile roast suitable for espresso, drip, and filter brewing.
- Passenger Loose-Leaf Teas - Single-origin teas served in local cafes and sold online.
Reputation
Enthusiasts praise Passenger for consistent quality, transparency in sourcing, and B-Corp commitment, with positive reviews on flavor balance and memorability. Professionals note its impact on equitable supply chains and awards from Food & Wine. Some mention higher pricing for premium offerings as a drawback.
Sources (8)
- https://www.wacaco.com/blogs/news/roast-review-passenger-coffee
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g52970-d10506534-Reviews-Passenger_Coffee_Roaster-Lancaster_Lancaster_County_Pennsylvania.html
- https://www.seattlecoffeegear.com/products/passenger-coffee-tea-stowaway
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LMqMDnmyo0
- https://ratetea.com/brand/passenger-coffee/676/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jaPr9ArmUpk
- https://drinkpassenger.com/journal/passenger-selected-as-food-and-wine-s-best-coffee-roaster-in-pa
- https://www.home-barista.com/coffees/passenger-recommendations-t85336.html