From Bean to Brew: The Story of Bányai Coffee
Hungarian Barista Farms Coffee in Costa Rica
In the highlands of Costa Rica, near the village of Naranjo, a group of eight to ten Hungarians tend to 200,000 coffee bushes for a roaster in Szekszárd, western Hungary. This unique connection between Hungary and Costa Rica has flourished thanks to the passion and expertise of Sándor Tóth, a former financial professional turned award-winning barista.
Sándor Tóth, along with Sándor Bányai, began experimenting with coffee cultivation and fermentation in 2018. Following Sándor Bányai’s passing, the business retained his name, and Tóth continued to innovate and improve coffee production in the Central American country. Currently, the coffee is grown on 35 terroirs across three estates, with 13,000 new shrubs planted last year.
The labor-intensive process of maintaining the coffee farm involves significant effort from a dedicated team. Arabica plants, known for producing high-quality coffee, require meticulous care and attention. The plantation employs three local workers who work six days a week for a modest wage, supplemented by assistance from Hungarian friends and visitors at the St. Anna estate.
Tóth’s son, Mark, plays a pivotal role in the business, overseeing drying processes and import-export activities on the estate. Together with engineer Péter Cserta and a team of biologists, they ensure the highest quality standards for Bányai Specialty Coffee Concept.
The plantation’s portfolio includes various well-known coffee varieties and specialty offerings, reflecting the team’s dedication to producing exceptional coffee. This unique collaboration between Hungarian expertise and Costa Rican terroir has created a truly exceptional coffee experience for customers around the world.
With a commitment to quality and innovation, Hungarian baristas continue to make their mark in the international coffee industry, bridging continents and cultures through the shared love of coffee.
