Coffee in itself has transformed a lot from being just a wake-up call in the mornings to becoming an artisanal affair that some brands epitomize the best, such as 'Third Wave Coffee Roasters'! This specialty coffee company from India is winning over the hearts of coffee lovers by focusing on quality, sustainability, and taste. Here, we explore what sets Third Wave Coffee Roasters apart—from its origins, to its influence today on the coffee-growing scene in India.
What is Third Wave Coffee?
To understand the company, you need to understand what it calls the “third wave” of coffee. This stage focuses on, not only high-quality beans, ethical sourcing, and masterful roasting to accentuate distinct flavor profiles, but also, a wine-like appreciation. In contrast to mass market coffee, third wavers prioritize single-origin beans, light to medium roasting, and sustainable sourcing. It is enshrining the journey that the bean takes from farm to cup, allowing the fruit, the chocolate, the nuts to be heard.
The Birth of Third Wave Coffee Roasters
Started in 2016 by Sushant Goel, Ayush Bathwal, and Anirudh Sharma, Third Wave Coffee Roasters was started as a boutique specialty cafe in Koramangala neighborhood of Bengaluru. Taking a cue from international coffee trends, the trio set its sights on bringing artisan coffee to India, a country with a longstanding tradition of tea culture. Fueled by bootstrapped beginnings, they rapidly expanded by emphasizing 100% Arabica beans and roasting in-house. Today, it is an iconic name that mirrors India’s burgeoning café culture – an innovative and community-friendly cafeteria.
Sourcing and Roasting: The Heart of the Brew
Ethical sourcing is at the heart of Third Wave Coffee Roasters. They work directly with farmers like those in Chikmagalur, India, which means sustainable production and fair trade. The beans are roasted in small batches with high-tech machinery for profiles that are designed to bring out natural flavors — no preservatives or additives. The carefulness of this process contributes to the roasts available being from medium-light (fruity and balanced) to dark (bold and chocolaty), so coffee enthusiasts can try a variety of tastes.
Diverse Offerings: Beans and Beyond
At Third Wave Coffee Roasters we have a comprehensive selection for home or in the café. Their coffee beans differ, with varieties such as single-origin beans with flavors of dark chocolate, nutty earthiness, orange, banana, and caramel. Favourites like El Diablo or Monsoon Malabar exist to suit tastes for individuals and a traditional French Press, Aeropress or Channi. Online, you can order fresh soybeans roasted to perfection and delivered to your door, guaranteed with a “stamp of freshness.” If you’re looking for health-focused options, brands such as Greenbrrew offer instant green coffee made from unroasted beans which is rich in antioxidant for a distinct brew.
The Cafe Experience
Walk into one of Third Wave Coffee Roasters’ cafes and it feels friendly and welcoming. More than just great coffee — read pour-overs, lattes with intricate art, and signature blends — the menu matches the brews with great food like pastries and sandwiches. It’s not just about the drink: It's a place to work, or relax, or socialize, but also a model for spreading third-wave ethos, community and quality alike.
Growth and Expansion
Starting from one outlet, Third Wave Coffee Roasters has been growing quickly. As of mid-2025, they have 165+ cafes across 12 cities in India namely Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi-NCR and Hyderabad. With investors such as WestBridge Capital, the company has been valued at around ₹1,300 crore, and looks to further expand. This growth is indicative of India's increasing craving for the premium coffee experience.
Beyond Roasted Coffee: Exploring Alternatives
Though Third Wave Coffee Roasters promotes its artisanally roasted coffee, the market features wide selection catering to all tastes. Such as, Greenbrrew with 100% natural, unroasted green coffee beans for weight management, detox with no chemical or preservative added. Greenbrrew comes in flavors such as lemon and cappuccino, replacing the harshness of regular roasts with a gentler, antioxidant-rich alternative. Whether you're a fan of the robust taste of Third Wave or you're in it for Greenbrrew's health benefits, there's a brew for everyone.
Summary
In summary, Third Wave Coffee Roasters has literally transformed coffee in India, by ensuring third wave principles are executed at the forefront - ethical sourcing, fresh roasting and unparalleled flavours! Rapidly growing and committed to quality, the brand remains a source of inspiration for a new generation of coffee enthusiasts. Now sip down at a cafe or brew at home, Third Wave Coffee Roasters has come up with a full-blown experience that is worth every sip of it. If you’re ready to level up your coffee experience, try them out today!
FAQ's
Q1. Who is the owner of Third Wave Coffee?
Ans. Third Wave Coffee was founded by Ayush Bathwal, Anirudh Sharma, and Sushant Goel, not owned by one individual.
Q2. What is a Third Wave Coffee roaster?
Ans. A roaster with emphasis on quality single-origin beans and sustainable sourcing and artisanal brewing.
Q3. Has Nikhil Kamath invested in Third Wave Coffee?
Ans. Yes, Nikhil Kamath, Zerodha co-founder, is an investor in Third Wave Coffee.
