At Endorffeine in Los Angeles, Jack Benchakul makes every single drink. As the proprietor and sole barista, he is constantly searching for the best possible way to brew coffee for his guests. His endless pursuit of quality and warm hospitality makes Endorffeine one of the truly unique coffee experiences available in the entire world.
When you get to Endorffeine every morning, what’s the first thing you do to prepare for service?
To ensure a proper beginning to the day, I require at least 20 minutes to enjoy my first espresso. This moment is meditative, and it sets the tone for mindful service.
How do you decide which coffees you want to serve each week at Endorffeine?
I am easily bored, so I need to remain focused. Endorffeine is a multi-roaster coffee bar, and the offerings change every day. On any given day, there is only 1 available coffee per method (i.e. espresso, hand brew, and cold brew). In order to be considered, a coffee roaster must have been roasting at scale for at least 3 years, their sourcing must be traceable, and they must roast at a light profile. My brew water recipes are designed to complement light roasts only.
Is the process or the result more important to you when making espresso?
The result, or the final expression, of my espresso is of utmost importance. Cost, time, and methodology take a backseat to the final outcome. How an espresso is perceived on my palate is the endgame.
Why did you choose Modbar for Endorffeine?
Transparency of method is what Modbar brings to the table. Other commercial equipment enshrouds the process of brewing espresso, and doesn’t allow guests to become a part of it. Modbar creates learning moments and more opportunities for human connection.
What does hospitality in a café look like to you?
When all inhabitants of a space feel at peace, then the mission has been accomplished. It is important to foster respect, and to practice it. Respect for oneself, respect for others around you, and finally, for the craft of Specialty Coffee – these are influential tenets at Endorffeine.
What is the next thing you plan to do to improve your coffee service?
Improvements at Endorffeine have never been monumental; changes have always been incremental (and constant). But, even before a change becomes procedural, it is tested dozens of times before becoming acceptable. Ultimately, I don’t chase trends or the latest advancements in technology; anything new must only satisfy one objective – the expression of complete balance on my palate.
Endorffeine is a coffee bar and roaster with one location based in Los Angeles. Follow them on Instagram.
