Alejandro Balzaretti
Raised in El Salvador in a family of multi-generational coffee farmers, Alejandro Balzaretti developed a deep appreciation for coffee from an early age. After moving to Los Angeles, that lifelong connection evolved into a passion for specialty coffee and the relationships that make it possible.
Five years ago, Alejandro founded Amigo Coffee Roasters in Venice, California, creating a direct link between family coffee farms in El Salvador and the Los Angeles coffee community. Built on transparency, hospitality, and meaningful partnerships, Amigo Coffee Roasters sources coffee directly from trusted producers, sharing both exceptional coffees and the stories behind them.
In 2024, Alejandro expanded that vision by opening Paisita, a Venice café that celebrates Latin American heritage through its food, hospitality, and culture. While Amigo Coffee Roasters focuses on sourcing and roasting high-quality coffee, Paisita provides a welcoming space that honors the traditions and flavors of the region.
Through both businesses, Alejandro is committed to making specialty coffee approachable while fostering meaningful connections between coffee producers, hospitality professionals, and the communities they serve.
Sessions
-
[SPANISH] Is Specialty Coffee for Everyone? Panel Discussion21-Aug-2026Conversation Corner
-
Roasters Forum Hosted by Roast Magazine21-Aug-2026Conversation Corner
-
Roasters Meetup: Conversation & Connections21-Aug-2026Roasting Hub
-
The Flavor Canvas: Coffee Sourcing for 2026’s Savory & Functional Menu Trends22-Aug-2026Conversation Corner