Brewing a New Legacy: India’s Specialty Coffee Revolution

India’s coffee story began in the 17th century when Baba Budan smuggled seven coffee beans from Yemen and planted them in the lush hills of Chikmagalur, Karnataka. Centuries later, India has grown into the sixth-largest coffee producer in the world, known for its shade-grown, handpicked Arabica and Robusta beans cultivated in Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.

For years, Indian coffee remained largely an export commodity or was confined to instant and traditional filter coffee. But now, a specialty coffee revolution is brewing—led by third-wave coffee roasters, innovative cafés, and passionate entrepreneurs who are redefining how coffee is grown, sourced, and consumed. Single-origin beans, artisanal roasting techniques, and direct trade models are elevating Indian coffee to the global stage.

In this exclusive interview, Mithilesh Vazalwar from Corridor Seven shares insights on their coffee journey, the impact of direct sourcing, and the future of Indian coffee.

Edited excerpts.

From Badminton to Brewing: The Coffee Journey

What sparked your passion for coffee, and how did your journey into the specialty coffee industry begin?
My love for coffee began while traveling for badminton tournaments across India. Tasting coffee in different cities, I kept wondering—why does it taste so different everywhere? That curiosity pushed me beyond just drinking it. A 2015 trip to Australia changed everything. What started as a holiday turned into a two-day coffee course in Melbourne, and that was my turning point. I knew coffee was my calling and pursued it relentlessly. My mantra then—and now—remains: ‘whatever it takes.’

The Champion’s Perspective on Coffee Roasting and Brewing

Being India’s first AeroPress Champion and a Barista Champion, how did those experiences shape your approach to coffee?
I come from a sports background, so I see coffee as a sport—demanding discipline, precision, and constant improvement. Championships push quality and innovation, and I believe competition drives progress. My experience in these events shaped my approach not just to brewing but to business—operations, finance, and marketing. I encourage my team to adopt a competitive mindset, always striving to be the best.

Cutting Out the Middlemen: The Power of Direct Sourcing

You emphasize direct sourcing with no middlemen. What impact has this model had on Indian coffee farmers?
The impact has been immense. Direct sourcing isn’t just a transaction—it’s a relationship. I connect with estate owners, share meals, discuss challenges, and plan ahead. This transparency benefits both farmers and consumers. Farmers get fair prices and feedback, while we ensure top-quality coffee. Technology makes ordering easy, but nothing replaces human connection and a shared vision.

Indian Coffee on the Global Stage

How do you think Indian coffee stands out worldwide?
Indian coffee is gaining global recognition for its unique chocolatey, nutty flavors and rich complexity. With advanced processing, we’re now competing with the best. Unlike many countries, India has a key advantage—all players in the coffee supply chain (farmers, roasters, and consumers) coexist in the same market, enabling rapid feedback and innovation. I believe Indian coffee will soon rank among the world’s top three or four.

The Future of Indian Coffee Culture

What trends do you see shaping the future of coffee in India?
Experiential coffee drinking is the future. We introduced India’s first ‘Omakase-style’ coffee experience, offering curated multi-course tastings. We also pioneered coffee raves—blending music, art, and coffee. It’s no longer just a beverage; it’s a culture, a lifestyle.

Innovation and Expansion Plans

Are there any new experiments or innovations you’re currently exploring?
Yes! We’re expanding into RTD (Ready-To-Drink) coffee, ensuring top quality and consistency. We're also developing blockchain solutions to cut logistics costs for roasters nationwide. By collaborating with experts, including those from Harvard, we aim to revolutionize the industry.

What’s next for Corridor Seven? Do you see expansion beyond India?
Yes, we’re exploring ways to take Corridor Seven global. It’s humbling to see international interest, but our focus is on delivering the right vibe and quality. We’re also developing new product lines—ones that add real value, not just fill shelves.

The Art of Consistency

How do you ensure quality across your café and partner cafés?
Consistency is everything. We use advanced software for quality monitoring, but data alone isn’t enough—it must be transformed into actionable insights. With thousands of beverages made daily, the key is rigorous training, precise tools, and tech-driven quality control. Our café partnerships show that trust and consistency go hand in hand.

The Final Brew
India’s coffee scene is evolving rapidly, with pioneers like Mithilesh driving its future. From direct sourcing to global expansion and immersive coffee experiences, the journey is just beginning. With innovation, transparency, and passion at its core, Indian specialty coffee is making its mark worldwide.