Nestled near Piazza della Signoria, the bustling cultural heart of Florence, stands a true gem of Italian tradition and innovation: Dini Caffè. Founded in 1939 by Alberto Dini, this artisanal coffee company has withstood the test of time, the rise of industrialization, and even natural disaster—all while thriving in a male-dominated market. Today, it is a proud, women-powered business bringing bold flavor and even bolder leadership to Italy’s coffee scene.

From the River to the Hills: A Story of Resilience

Originally located closer to the Arno River, Dini Caffè’s first roasting house was tragically flooded in 1966, forcing the company to relocate to the hills above Florence. “They were safe,” Serena Dini said, recalling the move that not only protected the business but also marked the beginning of its evolution. Ironically, as the business grew, Dini Caffè found itself working back down toward the river level—this time on its own terms, with greater strength and experience.

The location may have changed, but the brand’s essence has remained the same: authentic, handcrafted Italian espresso made with purpose and passion.

A Women-Powered Revolution in Italian Coffee

In an industry that remains largely male-dominated, Dini Caffè is blazing a new trail. With a majority-female leadership team, this roastery is thriving through empowerment and community. The women here are not just running a business—they’re curating a legacy of excellence, innovation, and visibility for women in coffee.

“Most companies hide their blend recipes. We show our ingredients with pride.”
— Serena Dini

Their new packaging, inspired by the city of Florence, is a beautiful homage to their roots. Each label showcases iconic Florentine symbols, adding cultural richness to every cup they sell.

The Coffee Process: From Cherry to Cup

We were walked through the journey of the coffee bean, starting with the “Bean Belt”, a global region around the equator where coffee grows. Dini sources both Arabica and Robusta beans, emphasizing quality and ethical practices. Did you know a single cup of espresso requires about 25 cherries? Neither did we.

🌿 Hand-picking ensures each cherry is perfectly ripe—a practice often replaced by machines in mass production. At Dini, this attention to detail remains sacred.

There are two main methods of processing:

• Dry process: Beans are dried naturally in the sun.
• Wet process: Beans are fermented and washed before drying.

After that, beans enter the dry mill, where they’re stripped of additional layers and sorted by density. “One defective bean,” our guide warned, “can ruin the whole cup.” That’s why inspection happens at multiple stages—on the plantation, before shipping, and after arrival in Florence.

☕ Fun Fact: Pirates still exist! Some coffee shipments are hijacked during overseas transport.

Roasting: The Ferrari of Coffee Craftsmanship

In the heart of their modern facility sits their pride and joy: an Italian roasting machine they acquired during the COVID pandemic. If you compare the machine to cars, it’s the equivalent of a Ferrari—both for its cost and its performance.

During roasting, beans change in:

• Color
• Density
• Aroma

Dini’s signature espresso blend is a mix of various beans, expertly roasted to maintain a consistent taste, even as harvests and bean profiles change year to year. This art of consistency is what sets Italian roasters apart, and it’s something Dini takes very seriously.

Protecting the Aroma: A Lesson in Packaging

Packaging might seem like a minor detail, but for Dini, it’s crucial. The first enemy of coffee is air, followed by light and moisture. That’s why you’ll never see high-quality coffee in a clear bag. These elements strip the beans of their natural oils and rich aroma, which are essential to a perfect cup.

Their packaging is more than just protective—it’s also a reflection of their brand identity. Inspired by Florence, each design tells part of the Dini story, creating a unique visual experience to match their exceptional taste.

Final Reflections: Tradition Meets Modern Empowerment

Visiting Dini Caffè was more than a field trip—it was a journey through time, culture, and passion. From the hand-picked cherries to the sleek Italian roaster, every detail reflects a commitment to craftsmanship and progress.

But what stood out most wasn’t just the coffee. It was the women behind the beans, leading with confidence, creativity, and care. In a city known for its Renaissance masterpieces, Dini Caffè proves that Florence continues to be a place where innovation thrives, and tradition lives on—in every cup.

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By: America Paredes & Arya Rajesh