Principio Coffee – Craft & Purpose at the Heart of Birmingham

Principio Coffee is more than just a specialty roaster—it's a mission-driven brand rooted firmly in Birmingham’s vibrant coffee scene. Located in the historic Vulcan building, this roastery offers ethically sourced, Honduran-grown beans roasted with precision and passion. If you're looking for flavor that makes a difference, Principio delivers a distinctive coffee experience intertwined with real-world impact.

A Mission Served in Every Cup

Principio is a not-for-profit roaster that reinvests 100% of its profits into sustainable community development in Honduras—funding clean water, schools, clinics, and economic projects in rural villages. You can learn more about their mission and visit their Birmingham location at Roasters Map. By choosing Principio, you're supporting transparent sourcing, traceable beans, and transformative development work—all while enjoying beautifully roasted coffee.

Ethically Sourced & Rotating Small-Batch Roasts

Principio works directly with Honduran farmers, buying 100% Arabica, farm-direct beans. Their in-house roasting system produces small batches tailored to highlight each lot’s flavor nuances—from bright, fruity tones to richer, chocolatey profiles. With an evolving lineup—light, medium, dark roasts, and signature blends like “Mocha Mist,” “Caramel Sky,” and “Pumpkin Spice”—Principio brings variety, quality, and freshness to every cup.

Accessible Brews & Thoughtful Offerings

In their downtown café, Principio serves a streamlined menu of espresso drinks, batch brew, and pour‑overs, all highlighting the clarity and sweetness unique to Honduran Arabica. They also offer cascara tea—the first in the region—alongside flavored teas and coffee subscriptions for home enjoyment. Packaging is clear and informative, featuring roast dates and tasting notes, ensuring that every bag supports sustainability and educates the drinker.

Community & Coffee with Conscience

More than a roastery, Principio is a community hub. Their space is warm, welcoming, and equipped for connection—great for grab-and-go orders, meet-ups, or focused work. With partnerships across Birmingham—from churches to local artists—the brand elevates both coffee culture and cultural cohesion. Their subscription model extends their reach, letting customers support the Honduran mission and enjoy fresh coffee delivered to their doorstep monthly.