OUR STORY
Two generations.
One wood-fired tradition, since 1978.
Founded in Oakland, California
Bringing the rich tradition of Italian wood-roasted espresso to America.
How It All Began
One man's pursuit of authentic espresso.
Founder Carlo Di Ruocco learned the traditional craft of wood-fired coffee roasting in his hometown of Salerno, Italy. After immigrating to the San Francisco Bay Area, he discovered that the espresso he grew up with simply didn't exist here. Rather than settle, he decided to recreate it.
In 1978, Carlo founded Mr. Espresso with a simple mission: bring the rich tradition of Italian wood-roasted espresso to America. Combining Old World craftsmanship with the finest coffees from around the world, he created a flavor unlike anything else available.
Building a Legacy
From local favorite to Bay Area institution.
Word quickly spread throughout California's restaurant community. Influential chefs and cafés embraced Carlo's coffee, helping introduce authentic Italian espresso to a new generation. More than four decades later, Mr. Espresso continues to roast over oak wood fire, while serving cafés, restaurants, hotels, businesses, and coffee lovers across the country.
A LEGACY CARRIED FORWARD
48 years later, still family owned & run.
From Carlo's original vision to the team leading the company today, Mr. Espresso has stayed true to its roots while growing into a nationally recognized roaster.
Marie Françoise Di Ruocco
Founder/CFO
Born in France, Marie-Françoise Di Ruocco is the co-founder of Mr. Espresso and the wife of the late Carlo Di Ruocco. Since 1978, she has managed the company's finances while raising a family of three children. Today, she remains the financial head and heart of the multigenerational brand.
Luigi Di Ruocco
Vice President
Luigi Di Ruocco leads the company's business operations while honoring the traditions established by his father, Carlo. Raised in the family business, he is dedicated to preserving the art of wood roasting while guiding the company into its next generation.
John Di Ruocco
Vice President
Roastmaster John Di Ruocco oversees coffee sourcing and Mr. Espresso's signature wood-roasting process. His commitment to craftsmanship and consistency ensures every roast reflects the quality and tradition the company is known for.
Laura Zambrano
Vice President
Laura (Di Ruocco) Zambrano has been a part of Mr. Espresso since its earliest days, helping grow the family business while preserving its values of authenticity, craftsmanship, and exceptional customer service. Her dedication continues to shape the culture and legacy of the company. Hers is often the voice customers hear when they call the roastery.
THE OAK WOOD ROASTING PROCESS
Roasted slowly,
over an oak wood fire.
Our traditional process is at the heart of everything we roast. For more than four decades we've refined the craft of oak wood roasting by hand, coaxing out flavor batch by batch.
OUR IMPACT
Building strong relationships, from origin to Oakland.
From long-term partnerships at origin to supporting our neighbors here in Oakland, we're committed to the people behind every cup. Learn more about our community efforts.
VISIT THE CAFFÈ
An Italian-inspired coffee bar
in downtown Oakland.
Inspired by the coffee culture of Italy, where coffee is often ordered and enjoyed while standing at the bar, The Caffè brings that same spirit of ritual, energy, and connection to everyday life. Enjoy classic espresso drinks, specialty coffee creations developed with local chefs, fresh pastries, and grab-and-go sandwiches.
- Mon — Fri
- 7am — 4pm
- Saturday
- 9am — 3pm
- Sunday
- Closed
1120 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94607
WHOLESALE
Bring Mr. Espresso to
your business.
We partner with restaurants, cafés, bakeries, hotels, and offices across the country.
Inquire about wholesale pricing, equipment, training and support.