Best Coffee to Buy at Home That Tastes Like Pret Coffee
For a taste similar to Pret Coffee at home, try buying a medium roast coffee like Illy Classico or a specialty blend from local roasters that emphasize smooth flavors.
If you love Pret A Manger’s coffee but want to enjoy it at home, you’re in luck. With the right beans and brewing methods, you can recreate that rich, smooth Pret taste in your kitchen. This guide covers everything from bean selection to equipment.
What Makes Pret Coffee Unique?
Pret uses 100% Arabica beans in their blends, which provides a smoother, less bitter taste than Robusta. Their espresso-based drinks have a distinctive caramel sweetness with medium acidity. The chain also uses high-quality commercial equipment that extracts flavors perfectly.
Key Characteristics of Pret Coffee:
- Medium roast profile
- Balanced acidity
- Caramel and nutty notes
- Creamy mouthfeel
Best Coffee Beans to Mimic Pret’s Flavor
These beans come closest to Pret’s signature taste:
1. Pret’s Own At Home Coffee
Pret sells their house blend online. This is the most authentic option, though availability varies by region.
2. Union Hand-Roasted Coffee
This UK roaster supplies Pret and offers similar blends like Pret House Blend for home use.
3. Square Mile Coffee Red Brick
A well-balanced espresso blend with caramel notes that resembles Pret’s profile.
Brewing Equipment for Pret-Style Coffee
To get cafe-quality results at home, consider these options:
Espresso Machines
Pret uses commercial espresso machines, but home models like Breville Barista Express can produce similar results.
French Press
For a budget-friendly option, a French press can extract rich flavors. Use a coarse grind and steep for 4 minutes.
Pour Over
The best cone filter coffee makers can highlight the subtle notes in Pret-style beans.
Grinding for Optimal Flavor
Fresh grinding is essential for Pret-like coffee:
- Use a burr grinder for consistent particle size
- Espresso requires fine grind
- French press needs coarse grind
For the best results, consider a coffee maker with built-in grinder to ensure maximum freshness.
Milk Options for Pret-Style Drinks
Pret uses whole milk standard, but offers alternatives:
| Milk Type | Effect on Flavor |
|---|---|
| Whole Milk | Creamiest texture, balances acidity |
| Oat Milk | Slightly sweeter, nuttier flavor |
| Soy Milk | Adds subtle beaniness |
Tips for Perfect Pret-Style Coffee at Home
- Use freshly roasted beans (within 2 weeks of roast date)
- Measure coffee precisely (18g for double espresso)
- Preheat your cup
- Experiment with water temperature (195-205°F ideal)
- Clean equipment regularly
With the right beans, equipment, and technique, you can enjoy Pret-quality coffee without leaving home. Start with their official blend if available, or experiment with similar specialty roasts to find your perfect match.
