Passenger

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Overview

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 LinePositioningPrice Range
Single-Origin CoffeesHigh-quality direct-trade beans$18 - $30 per 12oz bag
Espresso RoastsDeveloped for espresso and drip$20 - $28 per 12oz bag
Loose-Leaf TeasSingle-origin global selections$15 - $25 per 2oz
Coffee SubscriptionsCurated 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)
  1. https://www.wacaco.com/blogs/news/roast-review-passenger-coffee
  2. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g52970-d10506534-Reviews-Passenger_Coffee_Roaster-Lancaster_Lancaster_County_Pennsylvania.html
  3. https://www.seattlecoffeegear.com/products/passenger-coffee-tea-stowaway
  4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LMqMDnmyo0
  5. https://ratetea.com/brand/passenger-coffee/676/
  6. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jaPr9ArmUpk
  7. https://drinkpassenger.com/journal/passenger-selected-as-food-and-wine-s-best-coffee-roaster-in-pa
  8. https://www.home-barista.com/coffees/passenger-recommendations-t85336.html