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Three Keys Coffee: A Roasting Finalist Crafting More than Just Coffee

October 15, 2024

Savor Brands

Three Keys Coffee Roaster of the Year 2025 finalist

Jazz-inspired specialty coffee Houston

Minority-owned coffee roaster finalists

Best micro roaster 2025 finalist

The 2025 Roaster of the Year finalists have been announced, and among the notable contenders in the Micro Roaster category is Houston-based Three Keys Coffee . Launched in 2019 by Kenzel and Tio Fallen, Three Keys has quickly become recognized for its unique approach to coffee roasting, combining the rich sounds of jazz with carefully crafted brews. As a 100% Black-owned and 51% woman-owned business, Three Keys is dedicated to providing both exceptional coffee and a creative, inclusive environment.

With a production of over 20,000 pounds of coffee in the last year and a diverse team made up of 78% minority representation, this small but mighty roaster is changing the way we think about specialty coffee. Three Keys Coffee: Blending Music and Coffee At the heart of Three Keys Coffee is a deep connection to jazz music, a tribute to the co-founders' passion for the arts and culture. Jazz isn’t just a backdrop, it’s infused into the ethos of the brand, with each coffee being named after or inspired by different aspects of jazz. The company seeks to make specialty coffee approachable and enjoyable for a wide range of people, echoing the inclusive and soulful nature of the music it celebrates. A Modern and Inclusive Approach to Business The leadership team at Three Keys, Kenzel Fallen (CEO) and Tio Fallen (Executive Director of Coffee), have brought their past corporate experiences into the coffee industry, but with a refreshing twist. Their goal is to foster an open, non-hierarchical work culture where employees feel empowered to lead and innovate. They prioritize trust and autonomy, which has helped the company grow rapidly in just a few short years. With a commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, Three Keys Coffee stands as a model of how businesses can balance success with social responsibility.

Community and Sustainability Three Keys Coffee is also deeply committed to its community and environmental practices. The company prioritizes sourcing high-quality coffee beans and builds relationships with suppliers that share their values. As finalists in the Roaster of the Year competition, Three Keys has demonstrated a consistent dedication to sustainability, the education of their staff, and their involvement in the broader coffee industry. Why Three Keys Coffee Stands Out

Jazz Meets Coffee: With every roast, Three Keys offers a celebration of jazz culture, creating a sensory experience that goes beyond just taste.
Diversity and Inclusion: As a minority-owned business, Three Keys is dedicated to fostering an inclusive work environment and promoting equity.
Focus on Quality: From sourcing beans to roasting techniques, Three Keys ensures that every cup of coffee is of the highest quality.
Community Engagement: The company emphasizes strong ties to its local community and involvement in the coffee industry as a whole.

Three Keys Coffee is much more than just a roastery, it’s a cultural experience that blends the art of coffee with the soul of jazz. As one of the top contenders for the 2025 Micro Roaster of the Year, Three Keys Coffee has not only captured the attention of coffee lovers but has also set a new standard for creativity and inclusion in the specialty coffee world. If you’re looking for a coffee that offers more than just flavor, Three Keys is the key to unlocking a unique, unforgettable experience.