This 3-person, in-person group class takes place at City Bean Roasters. Please select an available date from the drop-down menu at the bottom of this page.

Learn the art and science of the modern barista with City Bean’s experienced coffee educators.

This 2.5-hour Brewing Fundamentals class focuses on the core techniques behind excellent hand-brewed coffee, using both pour-over and immersion methods. Grounded in brewing principles, coffee science, and industry best practices, the course offers a clear, practical introduction to coffee physics—how water, heat, time, and particle size interact to extract flavor from coffee.

Students will explore extraction theory in detail, learning how soluble compounds are pulled from coffee grounds, what under- and over-extraction taste like, and how to diagnose and adjust a brew. We’ll break down key variables such as grind size, brew ratio, water temperature, agitation, and contact time, and explain how each one affects strength, balance, and clarity in the cup.

The class also includes an introduction to refractometer use, covering how total dissolved solids (TDS) and extraction yield are measured, what those numbers mean, and how professionals use data alongside sensory evaluation to refine brewing decisions.

You’ll get hands-on experience with brewers like the V60, Chemex, and French Press, learning how to measure, time, pour, taste, and evaluate coffee with intention and consistency.

Whether you're a curious home brewer or an aspiring barista, this class will deepen your understanding of why brewing techniques work—not just how to follow them. You’ll leave with the confidence to experiment thoughtfully at home or bring greater precision and repeatability to a professional setting.

The Brewing Fundamentals class is perfect for:

• Home brewers looking to improve technique and flavor

• New baristas or café trainees starting their coffee journey

• Coffee professionals (sales, roasting, admin) seeking cross-training

• Anyone who loves coffee!

All participants receive a complimentary 12oz bag of City Bean coffee and a 10% discount on all professional barista gear in our shop (valid day of class only).

Location:
City Bean Roasters
5051 W Jefferson Blvd
Los Angeles CA 90016

Parking:
Street parking only - West View St or La Brea Ave, both around the corner from our Jefferson Blvd entrance, typically offer the easiest parking. Please plan accordingly and be on time, class begins promptly at the indicated start time.

Cancellations:
Your training session is NON-REFUNDABLE. Cancellations received via email (info@citybean.com) at least 72 hours before the start of class may be rescheduled to a future session, at City Bean’s discretion.

No Fragrance Policy:
City Bean restricts the use of scented products, like perfume, cologne, body spray, etc., to better accommodate individuals with fragrance sensitivities or allergies. This policy applies to all guests, class participants, and employees. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.