Coffee at home tastes good, but why does it always taste better when it’s from a cafe?

We had the co-founder of Verve Coffee Roasters tell us why.

Plus, we offer a few tips on how to up your coffee game in your own kitchen.

a barista handing coffees to customers

Photo: Getty Images

But it’s not just in your head that drinks made by a barista taste so good.

There are more factors than you might think that go into making every cup of coffee.

Plus, we offer some tips on how to duplicate the experience at home.

After the quality beans are sourced, they must be roasted.

You’ve likely seen signs in coffee shops boasting that they roast in-house.

Becoming a skilled barista takes time, training and dedication.

When you find a good barista, hang on to them, and don’t ignore that tip cup.

“Dedication to properly maintaining and servicing all equipment is where most coffee roasters will stand out.

But it’s not just a dirty coffee maker that can impact the flavor of your coffee.

“It’s best to ask the barista about the coffee!

Great questions include: ‘Do you get your coffee from a local roaster?

Is it fresh?’

Your local barista will be able to provide the information on roast date and frequency of deliveries.”

These questions can also help inform your purchases of coffee for at-home brewing.

Coffee beans should be stored properly to help preserve their flavor.

But if you thought your coffee should head for the freezer, think again.

Instead, use an opaque container to store your beans at room temperature.

Once you’ve made coffee, it shouldn’t sit around for more than 30 minutes in your pot.

As it goes with many food items, fresh is best.

Knowing what you like, or don’t like, in your coffee is also key to at-home creations.

“If you have a favorite cafe, talk to the baristas.

Still feeling a little lost on what to pick?

In the mood to try your hand at something fun at home?

Check out theserecipes for healthy iced coffee drinks.