Pilot Coffee Roasters
Founded in 2009, Pilot Coffee Roasters has become synonymous with Toronto's specialty coffee movement. They source exceptional coffees through direct relationships with farmers in Ethiopia, Colombia, Guatemala, and beyond.
Our Story
What started as a small roasting operation in a Leslieville garage has grown into one of Canada's most respected specialty roasters. Founders Jesse Makepeace and Graham Lawes were driven by a simple belief: great coffee should be accessible to everyone. Their dedication to transparency in sourcing and excellence in roasting has earned them multiple Canadian Barista Championship titles.
Sourcing & Origins
Direct trade relationships with farms in Ethiopia (Yirgacheffe, Sidamo), Colombia (Huila, Narino), Guatemala (Antigua), and Kenya. They visit origin at least twice per year to cup, select, and build relationships.