How to Make the Perfect Cup of Coffee

By Courtney Davis Walker

Today, coffee is having a moment. Okay, let’s be real, coffee is always having a moment. Coffee is popular worldwide for its energizing effects, taste and social aspects. 

But is there a magic formula for making that perfect cup? How long do you brew? How hot is too hot? What about the beans? Grind size? Brewing pressure? There are so many opinions that go into this morning (or afternoon or evening) ritual, and if you ask 100 people, you’ll likely get 100 different answers. Lucky for you, we were up to the challenge. 

But first, a little history. 

Back to the beginning 

Coffee has been an integral part of American culture since the Civil War, when it was used as a stimulant for soldiers. But the specialty coffee movement took off in the late 20th century as people began paying more attention to the quality of beans, roasting techniques and brewing methods.

Starbucks opened its first store in Seattle’s Pike’s Place Market in 1971. Two decades later, Starbucks became a global business. And now, there seems to be a coffee shop on nearly every corner, making coffee a true lifestyle brand in personal and professional settings. 

Locally, we have several independent shops run by passionate experts who have given blood, sweat and tears to their respective coffee houses. They are vibrant and active members of their communities and they know their customers by name—and, of course, coffee order. 

Bean basics

Making a perfect cup of coffee begins with where and how the coffee is grown. 

“We make sure to source our coffee carefully because we want to know the quality of the beans,” says Selamawit “Mimi” Wieland-Tesfaye, owner of Mimi’s Coffee House in Mount Kisco.“I use Counterculture, but there are different types of coffee available all over the world.” 

Michelle and Erich Smith of The Farmer’s Grind in South Salem agree that it starts with the best beans. 

“Our beans are sourced from Java Love, a women-owned business in Suffern, New York,” says Michelle. 

“They are sustainability sourced and we know they are high quality,” Erich adds.

Once you’ve found your beans, it’s time to find your ideal roast.

“Roasts are really about personal preference,” Erich explains. “We encourage people to sample the roasts—medium, light and dark. People fail to realize that the lighter the roast, the more caffeine it will have. They say, ‘I need caffeine! Give me your darkest roast.’ But it’s quite the opposite. The longer you roast the beans, the more it’s cooking; therefore, the amount of caffeine decreases.” 

The daily grind

After determining your preferred beans and roast, you will want to figure out the best type of grind based on your brewing method. Here’s a quick guide:

• Espresso calls for a fine grind. 
• Drip coffee makers require medium grind. 
• French Press uses a coarse grind 
• Pour-over is best with a medium grind. 

How does one choose the right brew? Experience.

“It’s really about personal preference,” says Wieland-Tesfaye. “I think people should try different types of coffee to get a sense of what they like.” 

Our experts also emphasized the importance of when to grind, which is immediately before making that morning Joe. If the grind sits around, it will lose its freshness and taste stale.

 “This is really key to making a tasty cup of coffee,” says Wieland-Tesfaye.

Time, temperature and water 

“If you grew up in Ethiopia like I did and it’s not burning hot, it’s not coffee,” Wieland-Tesfaye says with a laugh. “Of course, I have customers who swear by iced coffee or cold brew. It’s all about your preference.”

Water temperature should be between 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a bit below boiling, and it’s ideal for flavor. 

“Anything above 205 degrees can burn the coffee, so it’s important to follow those guidelines,”  Erich Smith cautions. 

The coffee-to-water ratio is also key. A good measurement is 1-2 tablespoons of coffee for every six ounces of water. Adjust to taste. 

Getting fancy

What about those fancy machines? Are they worth it? 

“These machines are not cheap,” says Wieland-Tesfaye.“But if you’re buying coffee twice, three times a day, then it may be worth it.  But do your research before you buy. There’s a lot of information online regarding espresso makers or grinder coffee brewers. Always read reviews from real people online to help you decide what will work best for you.”

Should you purchase the same machine found in your favorite coffee house? 

“It would be difficult to buy the same machine as your favorite coffee house due to the size of the waterline,” says Wieland-Tesfaye.

Commercial coffee machines connect directly to a water supply, which often isn’t possible at home. Plus, they often require a higher voltage than what you’d find in a standard home outlet. 

CoffeeGeek and Home-Barista are great resources for reviews and advice on top-tier coffee machines. You can also go to specialty retailers like Williams-Sonoma or Sur La Table or shop online through Crate & Barrel or Wayfair. Or you can purchase directly through manufacturers like Breville or Miele. 

Latte art

“Latte art is all about that Instagram moment,” says Wieland-Tesfaye. “It’s fun, and we have some baristas who are great at it. But it means nothing if the coffee isn’t good.”

According to methodicalcoffee.com, latte art requires a specific pouring technique to make those beautiful tulips, hearts, rosettas, etc. out of steamed milk and espresso. But there are only a few things you need to get started: a cup or mug full of hot coffee, a milk steaming pitcher and a steam wand or frothing device to create the art. 

“To make latte art, you need the perfect combo of foam and temperature,” says Erich. 

It’s too detailed to explain here, but that’s what YouTube is for. A quick search for “how to make latte art” will pull up multiple videos with millions of views. Find your favorite teacher and go! 

Coffee talk

The other bonus of coffee? The conversations.

“The perfect cup of coffee is shared with the right person in the right setting,” says Erich. “It’s knowing you can walk into your local shop and enjoy the experience of being there.” 

Wieland-Tesfaye agrees.

 “The coffee culture is really special,” she says. “We get to know the customers each day. To come here and relax or work, it’s a really great experience for them and for us and them.”

This article was published in the November/December 2024 edition of Connect to Northern Westchester.