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Discovering Specialty Coffee: The Rise of Cafe Secret Alley
Dilshan "Arty" Ranaweera's journey into the world of specialty coffee began rather unassumingly in 2017 when he opened Cafe Secret Alley in the picturesque city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. Founded in a time when the country lacked a thriving coffee culture, the cafe initially catered to tourists seeking a taste of the exotic. Ranaweera uncovered a market gap in an area renowned for its natural beauty but without a vibrant coffee scene.
The Craft of Transition: From Instant to Artisan
As he reflected on his initial foray into coffee, Ranaweera candidly recalled their use of capsule machines—far from the artisanal standard they aspired to achieve. A pivotal moment came when he traveled to Bali to observe the island's coffee culture, an experience that ignited his passion for quality coffee. “We started really small with smoothie bowls and coffee,” he shared, but he soon realized that to thrive, they needed to elevate their coffee offerings.
Commitment to Quality: The Specialty Coffee Transformation
Ranaweera's determination to improve Cafe Secret Alley's coffee led him to pursue education through the Specialty Coffee Association, earning his barista certification and deepening his expertise. His commitment to quality is evident as he sources beans from local farmers and international roasters, ensuring freshness and flavor depth in each cup. “I know how stock moves, so I’ll ask for an aerobic this month and a carbonic maceration the next,” he explained, reflecting his strategic approach to coffee sourcing.
A Growing Community of Coffee Lovers
With the growing demand for specialty coffee in Sri Lanka, particularly in urban centers like Colombo, Ranaweera has witnessed a significant shift in customer profiles at Cafe Secret Alley. More locals are frequenting the cafe, revealing an expanding knowledge and appreciation for coffee. “This is the very beginning of the specialty coffee boom here in Sri Lanka,” he believes. "I think in the future, many more people will get involved and production will increase."
Navigating Challenges in the Coffee Industry
Yet, the path to success in the coffee industry isn't without its challenges. Ranaweera expressed his concerns over the political and economic instability that can affect operations, impacting not only cafe owners but also farmers and families reliant on the coffee trade. “In specialty coffee, we need many people working from top to bottom, and all of these people need assurance,” he stated, emphasizing the need for stability in a market that's still maturing.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Coffee in Sri Lanka
As Cafe Secret Alley continues to grow, Ranaweera’s vision remains rooted in quality and community. Whether you are a coffee connoisseur seeking the best specialty coffee shops or a curious traveler looking to experience high-end coffee bar culture, visiting Cafe Secret Alley promises a unique blend of Sri Lankan coffee culture.
In a world increasingly focused on specialty coffee experiences, where can you find ethically sourced coffee or indulge in a coffee shop with handcrafted pour-over coffee? Cafe Secret Alley stands as a beacon for anyone looking to savor the rich flavors of premium coffee made with love and care.
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