Intelligentsia Coffee, hailing from the vibrant city of Chicago, is making waves as it expands its reach internationally. This week marks a significant milestone for the renowned US coffee chain as it opens its inaugural store in South Korea.
Scheduled for its grand opening on February 23, the establishment is a result of a fruitful collaboration with local distributor MH Partners. Over the past decade, MH Partners has been instrumental in promoting Intelligentsia’s bagged coffee and ready-to-drink offerings. Nestled within a beautifully renovated historic building in Seoul’s Seochon district, the new store adds a touch of global flair to Intelligentsia’s existing portfolio, which includes bustling locations in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Boston, and Austin.
The South Korean outpost boasts a striking design, featuring a prominent glass canopy that gracefully hovers above the bar, accentuating the skill and artistry of the baristas. Natural elements such as wood and stone accents infuse the space with a sense of tranquility, seamlessly blending the indoors with the outdoors.
Founded in 1995 by Doug Zell and Emily Mange, Intelligentsia Coffee has earned its reputation as a vanguard of the third wave coffee movement. Following its acquisition by Peet’s Coffee & Tea in 2015, Intelligentsia has continued to uphold its commitment to quality and innovation.
In addition to its flagship location at 1850 W. Fulton Street in Chicago, Intelligentsia operates several cafe retail outlets across the city. Their supply chain spans across various cafes, restaurants, and establishments throughout the US and Canada, sourcing premium beans directly from growers in Central and South America, with a particular emphasis on East African regions like Ethiopia. At the heart of their operations lie four gas-powered Ideal Rapid Gothot Roasters, including two 90-kilo roasters and a 23-kilo roaster in Chicago, alongside a 40-kilo roaster in Los Angeles. Crafted with precision in Stuttgart, Germany, these machines, dating back to the 1950s, embody a rich tradition of artisanal craftsmanship.
Not immune to controversy, Intelligentsia faced pushback in 2008 when it made the decision to cease serving 20-ounce coffee and espresso beverages in its stores. Founder Doug Zell defended the move, arguing that larger quantities diluted the pure, nuanced flavors that they painstakingly curated through meticulous sourcing, roasting, and production processes. For Intelligentsia, it’s not just about delivering caffeine—it’s about preserving the integrity of the coffee experience.
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