Roaster · United States
Modest Coffee
Modest Coffee is a specialty roaster founded by Marcus and Jenni Contaldo that focuses on traceable, single-origin coffee.

Founded in 2013 by husband and wife duo Marcus and Jenni Contaldo, Modest Coffee began as a home-roasting hobby using a popcorn popper before evolving into a professional operation. The business was officially established after the acquisition of a commercial roaster, which allowed the founders to scale their production while maintaining a focus on quality and accessibility. Driven by a commitment to sustainability and wage transparency, the company prioritizes traceable sourcing to support global coffee-growing communities. Marcus Contaldo, who draws on his background in culinary arts, oversees the roasting process and was recognized with a Good Food Award in 2021. Jenni Contaldo manages the business operations, ensuring the company remains dedicated to its vision of providing specialty coffee without pretension. Today, Modest Coffee has expanded its reach to over 100 retail outlets, offering a variety of single-origin coffees and subscriptions while maintaining the personal, community-focused values that defined its early days at local farmers' markets.
In the Encyclopedia
Beans from Modest Coffee
Costa Rica · Tarrazú
Costa Rica – Alajuela
This well-balanced regional blend is sourced from over 1,400 producer-members of the Coopepalmares cooperative in the Alajuela province of Costa Rica.
Guatemala · Antigua
DECAF Guatemala – Sierra Madre
This Swiss Water processed coffee is curated from lots selected for their cup profile and potential to express excellently once decaffeinated.
El Salvador – Ahuachapan
This washed lot from the Ilamatepec mountain range in Ahuachapan represents the classic regional profile of El Salvadoran coffee.
Kenya · Nyeri
Kenya – Nyeri
This Kenyan coffee is produced by smallholder farmers organized around the Ichamama Factory in Nyeri County.
ViewUganda – Mount Elgon
This coffee from the northern Mt. Elgon region of Uganda offers a rich, nutty flavor profile with dark chocolate notes.
GFA Test Roast- Mystery Bag
This mystery bag contains one of three competition level coffees that were test roasted for the 2024 Good Food Awards.
ViewLast updated: October 14, 2026