We just had to share our latest find with you guys. Meet Mateusz, the coffee guru behind Lagacca, Poznań’s dopest micro-roastery and coffee shop. Hidden away on Wozna 21 in the Old Town, Lagacca is thee treasure trove for coffee lovers since July 2024 . Mateusz is a straight-up legend in Poland’s coffee scene, making waves since he opened Brisman in Jeżyce back in 2012 and brought serious coffee culture to the city. We spoke to him and girlfriend Iza who who was instrumental in lauching Lagacca.
Hey Mateusz, it’s been a minute. Congrats on Lagacca! So, do we still call you a barista these days?
Nah, call me ‘Kawiarz,’ which basically means ‘coffee guy’ in English.
Your Instagram says Lagacca is an Amusement Park. What’s the deal with that?
Iza – This place is all about having fun and exploring the world of coffee.
What makes Lagacca stand out from other coffee spots?
For starters, we blend our own beans. Plus, it’s all about coffee here – nothing else.
What do you say to someone who claims they don’t like coffee?
I’d invite them to try our coffee before making any rash decisions.
What’s the wildest coffee you’ve ever made?
It might not be wild, but we are super proud of our ‘Brewing Bad’ blend. It’s got notes of milk chocolate, fermented cherries, strawberries, and black and red currants.
Break it down for us – what’s the difference between a cappuccino, espresso, and latte?
Good question! Each should be a different blend and prepared in its own unique way. The texture of each one is different. Coffee is not just coffee. Its all about the details. For example, a cappuccino should be drunk ASAP to appreciate the texture if it’s done right. That’s why we skip the café art on our cappuccinos – you get it straight away.
What’s this Cookie Monster I keep hearing about?
It’s an Oreo shake with ground coffee inside.
How many coffees do you drink in a day?
Mateusz – Not as many as I used to, so around 11 or 12. Back in the day, it was more like 30!
Iza – I don’t count but for sure not as much as Gaca!
What’s your go-to summer coffee?
The Tepacze CO2 coffee with Fritz-cola Anjola and cold brew – it separates better and stays super refreshing.
Where’s the second-best place for coffee in Poznań?
Hahaha, definitely Guest Coffee Culture in Wilda.
Why the name Lagacca?
It’s a play on words. I tweaked Lavazza (probably the most famous coffee) to Lagacca since Gaca is my last name.
How long does a pack of your blends last?
Coffee is like salt and pepper – it doesn’t go off. Just keep it sealed to keep the aroma fresh.
Got any cool coffee facts?
Coffee was banned until the 15th century.
No way! Why was that?
Christians viewed it as the black bean of the Islamic world, so the pope banned it! Thankfully for us they saw sense eventually.
You’ve always had great hair, especially back when you had an afro! Any tips for healthy hair?
Hahaha, lots of coffee!
What are your favorite coffee beans?
Ours, of course! You’ll only find our blends at Lagacca.
Are Italians tough customers?
Hahaha, I love them. They know what they want, but sometimes I convince them my way.
Is Starbucks coffee any good?
Hahahaha
I heard you’re into hip hop?
Absolutely. I love rap. I’m always writing stuff in my spare time. It’s my getaway hobby from coffee.
What’s your favorite game on your in-house arcade machine?
Moon Walker. I challenge anyone to a game!
Who designed Lagacca’s interior?
Me and Stanislaw Wertelak a.k.a. Tips.pl, who can make anything from scrap. He’s a genius.
Are you ever tired of coffee after more than 30 years in the biz?
Some days, but the next day, I’m all excited again!
Can you drink coffee in other places without being a critic?
Hahaha, not really. I hate it, to be honest.
Would you change anything from the past?
Let’s just say I’m too trusting.
What’s the difference between the old Brisman and Lagacca?
It’s actually very similar. Let’s call it Brisman 2.0. This time, it’s just me and my girlfriend Iza, so I have more control. Brisman was amazing, but it was more of a team effort.
I think I remember you from somewhere, Iza?
I used to work for Mateusz at Brisman back in the day.
What coffee would you both choose if a client could only have one drink ever?
Mat: Robokop. It’s our take on Vietnamese coffee – very sweet, strong, and creamy.
Iza: Flajt.
What’s that? It’s a sabotage blend with 50% robusta and 50% arabica with ristretto – a “short shot” of highly concentrated espresso with lactose-free milk. Delicious!
It’s been awesome catching up with you guys. I’m super impressed with Lagacca and will definitely be a regular since our office is just around the corner. One last thing – what do you say when I describe you as a legend in Poznań?
That’s great because it’s true, hahahaha.
Swing by Lagacca to try Mateusz and Iza’s freshly ground coffee. With Mateusz’s impressive awards and experience, you’re in for a whole new coffee adventure. Remember, like a wise man once said, “Coffee is not just coffee. It’s all in the details!”
