Tucson is known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes, but it also boasts a collection of gastronomic points of interest. If you’re looking to chow down on some of the best food the US has to offer (as denoted by the UNESCO City of Gastronomy distinction), it stands to reason that finding a quality cup of coffee may also be on your radar. Presta Coffee Roasters shines as a beacon for coffee enthusiasts with their exceptional specialty drinks and locally roasted beans for their brews. Presta Coffee is a cornerstone of Tucson’s coffee culture, offering a unique blend of quality, community, and craftsmanship.
Presta was founded by Curtis Zimmerman, who is a passionate coffee connoisseur with a vision to create a coffee shop that both serves outstanding coffee and the community. The name “Presta” is inspired by the presta valve, which is a kind of bicycle valve stem that reflects Zimmerman’s love for both coffee and cycling. This merging of worlds fits perfectly with their two downtown locations. The spot on 9th Ave is located just off of Historic 4th Ave and surrounded by various bike routes. The 9th Ave location is a good mix of shaded outdoor seating and cozy indoor bar seating. The wood, light colors, and bike accouterments that adorn the walls of this location match the aesthetics at the other two.
Arguably the more bike-centric location is inside the Mercado San Agustin, which is also home to another A Taste of AZ Magazine alum Agustin Kitchen. There are always a handful of kitted-out bicyclists occupying the plant-filled bar or open and bustling seating area. They can testify to the quality of the coffee, the tasty morsels from Houldens Rise Above bakery, and the lovely crossroads of coffee and biking which the establishment rides on.
At Presta Coffee, their quality is peerless. The team across all locations meticulously sources beans from reputable farms around the globe, ensuring that each cup is not only delicious but also ethically sourced and produced. Their commitment to sustainability and fair trade practices is displayed in every cup, making Presta Coffee a favorite among socially and environmentally conscious consumers. Presta Coffee’s menu caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you are a fan of a classic espresso, a smooth latte, or a refreshing cold brew, Presta has something to satisfy your coffee cravings.
Presta also offers a selection of teas, pastries, and light snacks, all curated to complement their coffee offerings. One of the most stand-out features of their menu are the seasonal drinks on rotation. Of the beverages currently on offer, the Desert Sage is the most popular as of this writing. Another classic is their cold brew and cola combination which is one of our personal favorite coffee concoctions ever.
Beyond serving great coffee, Presta Coffee Roasters has deep ties in the Tucson community. They host events, collaborate with local artists, and support various community initiatives, making Presta more than just a coffee shop. It’s a place where community spirit is fostered and coffee connections are brewed to last.
For those in Tucson or planning a visit, Presta Coffee is a must-sip destination for the caffeine-minded. With multiple locations across the city, including their flagship shop on 2502 N. 1st Avenue and their bustling downtown spot on 100 S. Avenida del Convento, great coffee is always within reach. Presta Coffee Roasters encapsulates the essence of Tucson’s dynamic and welcoming spirit. It’s a place where quality, community, and creativity converge, offering an unrivaled coffee experience that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you are a local or just passing through, a visit to Presta Coffee is sure to be a highlight of your Tucson adventure.
written & photographed by: isaac stockton
presta coffee roasters locations:
100 S. Avenida del Convento Tucson, AZ 85745
2502 N. 1st Ave. #100 Tucson, AZ 85719
501 E 9th St Tucson, AZ 85705