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Bangkok · Thailand

Roots Coffee Roaster

Since 2013 · Varatt 'Tae' Vichit-Vadakan, Korn Sanguenkeaw, Somdej 'Ake' Luengtaviboon

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Overview

Roots was founded in early 2013 by Varatt 'Tae' Vichit-Vadakan (2014 Thailand Barista Champion, who competed at WBC that year), head roaster Korn Sanguenkeaw, and Somdej 'Ake' Luengtaviboon. Started as a weekend-only micro-roastery on Soi Ekamai that doubled as a weekday training space, Roots is now part of Vichit-Vadakan's Kinnest Group with four outlets, around 50 staff, and a 100% Thai coffee sourcing commitment. The company runs a 'cup-to-farm' program returning a portion of revenue to producers in northern Thailand to improve quality and infrastructure.

Known for

  • Thailand specialty coffee pioneer (2013)
  • 100% Thai coffee sourcing commitment
  • Founded by 2014 Thailand Barista Champion (Varatt Vichit-Vadakan)
  • Cup-to-farm program with northern Thai producers
  • Four outlets including 2018 Sathorn flagship at Bhiraj Tower

Why it matters

Roots is the rare consuming-market roaster that became a producer-country pioneer. By committing to Thai-only sourcing, Vichit-Vadakan and team have done what most specialty roasters won't — invested in their own country's coffee infrastructure rather than importing exotic origins. The Bruna espresso blend (40% Thai Prao District + 40% Brazil + 20% Guatemala — note: original blend) has evolved as the Thai program matured.

Production

head roaster
Korn Sanguenkeaw
roaster machine
Giesen W6
filter equipment
Mahlkönig EK43, Mahlkönig Tanzania
espresso equipment
1999 La Marzocco Linea (two-group); Compak conical grinders

Café

33,31 Bhiraj Tower, S Sathorn Rd, Yannawa, Sathon, Bangkok 10120 (Sathorn flagship)

Recognitions

  • Thailand National Barista Champion 2014 (Varatt Vichit-Vadakan)
  • Competed at World Barista Championship 2014

Sources

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