Infusion Coffee & Tea Crafters: Tempe's Hidden Gem for World-Class Coffee, Tea, and Barista Training
Written by Angela Muniz | Photo credit: Mark Lipczynski
Nestled just east of Arizona State University's Tempe campus, Infusion Coffee & Tea Crafters appears as a charming local café amid college apartments, a historic neighborhood, and one of Arizona's pioneering craft breweries. This inviting spot draws together a diverse crowd for their essential daily brew.
Yet, Infusion serves as a gateway for coffee and tea enthusiasts, with windows revealing a glimpse of a state-of-the-art training facility. Owner Patrick O’Malley connects Tempe to the global coffee community through his expertise.
Like a coffee bean's journey from distant farms to your cup, O’Malley’s path began over 30 years ago repairing espresso machines in Hawaii.
In 1999, he launched Espresso Italia in Tempe, supplying premium wholesale coffee and teas to Arizona's burgeoning food scene. By 2010, it was a staple for restaurants and chefs. O’Malley advanced into roasting, earning international certifications in roasting, Q grading for bean quality, and education.
His passion for tea, rooted in Irish and English heritage, led to tea master certification in 2005. He curates an evolving selection of teas for wholesale and the café, including blends honoring his parents' favorites.
In 2012, O’Malley established the International Barista & Coffee Academy (IBCA) adjacent to the Espresso Italia warehouse. One of only 31 certified coffee labs worldwide, it trains professionals globally for competitions and education.
Arizona locals and visitors need only curiosity to explore this Tempe treasure. Infusion offers introductory Saturday classes on coffee and tea at the facility—currently paused due to COVID-19; check their website and social media for updates.
Celebrating its fifth anniversary amid the pandemic, the café brings O’Malley’s decades of experience and worldwide travels home, offering specialty drinks and a community gathering spot. Even in uncertain times, he emphasizes coffee's role in fostering connection.
“Coffee shops create that Third Space,” he says. “Where workers and locals form a community.”
Infusion Coffee & Tea
1300 E. Eighth St., Tempe, AZ 85281 | (480) 968-2533
*Infusion Coffee & Tea Crafters is currently open, but classes are on hold.
