Real talk: The 2026 Good Food Awards have just unveiled a list of U.S. roasters pushing coffee boundaries. From California’s coastal hills to Oregon’s misty valleys, 20 roasters made the cut, showcasing single-origin beans and experimental processing techniques that redefine what coffee can be. This isn’t just about flavor—it’s about transparency, sustainability, and the art of storytelling through each sip.
The finalists lean heavily into Ethiopia and Colombia, with entries like Gesha, Pink Bourbon, and SL-28 dominating the roster. These beans aren’t just celebrated for their complexity—they’re gateways to terroir, with roasters emphasizing methods like thermal shock, carbonic maceration, and anaerobic honey. Think of it as a culinary rebellion: coffee isn’t just a drink anymore; it’s a conversation about where it comes from and how it’s made.
The Good Food Foundation’s judging process is as rigorous as it is innovative. First-round evaluations involve Bay Area tasters brewing at home, then pros cupping in a second round. This blend of public and expert feedback ensures the finalists aren’t just trendy—they’re technically sound. The updated criteria, which separates seasonal and year-round offerings, also pushes roasters to think beyond fleeting trends and focus on consistency.
What stands out? Single-origin dominance—20 of 25 finalists are pure, unblended beans. Even blends like Crimson Coffee’s Ethiopia Reshad Ababulgu White Honey or Magnolia Coffee’s Ethiopia Gera Estate Anaerobic Natural feel like curated experiences, not just mixtures. This year’s list also highlights a shift toward post-harvest innovation, with phrases like “thermal shock” and “anaerobic honey” becoming descriptors of quality rather than gimmicks.
Whether it’s a Costa Rican Pacamara or a Panama Gesha, these roasters are betting on origin, technique, and transparency to win over discerning palates.
Key takeaway? The 2026 finalists are less about hype and more about heritage. Whether it’s a Costa Rican Pacamara or a Panama Gesha, these roasters are betting on origin, technique, and transparency to win over discerning palates.
So, what’s your take? Which finalist deserves the spotlight? Drop a comment below.
Questions & Answers
Who are the 2026 Good Food Awards coffee finalists?
Twenty U.S. roasters are named 2026 Good Food Awards coffee finalists. The list highlights small-batch and sustainable coffee producers recognized for quality and innovation.
What makes a coffee a Good Food Awards finalist?
Coffee finalists are judged on quality, sustainability, and craftsmanship. They must demonstrate excellence in sourcing, roasting, and ethical practices to be considered.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
