The Rise of Specialty Coffee Culture in Five-Star Hotel Lobbies

five star hotel

Hotel lobbies form the guests’ first impression. They are designed to exceed people’s expectations, setting the tone and atmosphere of the hotel. Design and decor play an important role in the lobby of a luxury hotel, but looks alone are not enough to reach the standard of hospitality expected in a luxury setting. Lobbies are, after all, functional spaces that must be both beautiful and efficient.

Checking into a five star hotel can be stressful, particularly during busy periods. Therefore, it is essential to keep the new arrivals comfortable.

A Cup of Coffee While You Wait

A hotel lobby is a reception area. There’s some paperwork to be done on arrival, luggage needs to be dealt with, and the rooms must be assigned. Even in a 5 star hotel, the process can be exhausting, especially if the guests come straight from the airport or train station.

A small act of hospitality can go a long way. Making guests feel welcome can make checking in a smooth process. Coffee and light refreshments are an easy way of achieving this effect. The question arises: What impact can coffee have on new arrivals?

Specialty Coffee is an Experience

Hotel directors know luxury resorts, spa hotels and other five-star establishments are all about making even the briefest moments memorable. To achieve a level of sophistication and elegance, every detail matters.

When offering coffee in a lobby, for example, the type and style of the coffee make a big difference. Specialty coffee, known for its nuanced flavors and aromas, is an excellent way to set the tone for the rest of the guests’ stay. Namely if it’s part of a wider specialty coffee programme in the property’s suites and restaurants.

The type of coffee chosen, just like the color palette used throughout the hotel, is part of the hotel’s brand identity, so here are a few suggestions.

Three Types of Specialty Coffee for a Hotel Lobby

1. Ethiopia Yirgacheffe Coffee

Ethiopia is the birthplace nation of coffee. There are endless heirloom varieties in the country, which can’t be found anywhere else. The coffee is floral and sweet on the nose, with notes of caramel, praline and vanilla. This is the type of specialty coffee to choose if you want your hotel lobby to have a traditional, authentic feel.

2. Hawaii Kona Coffee

One of the most sought-after specialty coffees in the world, Hawaiian Kona is synonymous with exclusivity. Offering this rich, caramel-flavoured, creamy specialty coffee to your guests sets the tone for a luxurious stay focused on rare and exclusive experiences. Kona coffee is not only rare, but it is also delicious and an excellent first impression of your hotel’s focus on quality.

3. Bali Karana Kintamani

Bali’s specialty coffee is intense. It is ideal for espresso and espresso-based drinks with character. Offering Bali Karana coffee might be ideal for hotels that host corporate events, where a high-end executive atmosphere is required. A bold espresso made with Bali’s finest beans can set the stage for a successful business trip.

What type of coffee would you enjoy in a hotel lobby?

Since 2014, Hayman has been helping top hotels win over the competition. Many hotels restaurants have been delighting guests and boosting revenues, by serving the coffee that leaves no one indifferent, the fresh roasted specialty coffee from Hayman.