Zoka Coffee's Decaf Hidden City is a Swiss Water processed dark roast that refuses to compromise. Sourced from Central and South American origins and roasted in Seattle, this coffee delivers the rich, chocolatey depth you want from a dark roast without the caffeine—or the flatness that plagues lesser decafs. It's named for the mystery and allure of coffees that reward those who seek them out, even after hours.
Tasting Notes
Expect molasses sweetness upfront, followed by roasted pecan and a creamy caramel finish. The body is full and silky, with low acidity that makes it incredibly smooth and approachable. The dark roast brings forward bittersweet chocolate undertones without crossing into ashy or burnt territory. This is decaf that tastes like coffee—bold, satisfying, and complex enough to stand on its own or shine through milk.
Brew Methods
Hidden City excels as espresso, where its viscous body and caramelized sugars produce shots with thick crema and syrupy texture. It's equally at home in a French press or drip brewer, where the full immersion or longer contact time highlights its molasses sweetness. Avoid lighter brew methods like pour over unless you prefer a more delicate cup—this coffee wants to be bold.
About the Roaster
Zoka Coffee has been a Seattle institution since 1996, roasting with precision and a commitment to sustainability. Their decaf program uses only Swiss Water processing, which removes caffeine through osmosis rather than chemicals, preserving the bean's natural character.
Not sure which grind size or brewer to pair with Hidden City? Clive's team can walk you through grinder settings, espresso dialing, and equipment recommendations to get the most from every bag.