About Us

My name is Yair “Leo” Carvajalino. I grew up on a coffee farm in Colombia. My parents and grandparents were also coffee farmers, so it runs in the family. Growing coffee is a business that requires dedication, diligence and passion. Generation by generation, these values continue to flourish in the region where I grew up since coffee production is one of the main economic activities there.
Finca Paramitos, Chinchina, Colombia 2022
When I came to the United States for the first time, I learned that coffee is a big deal. The world consumes it for multiple reasons, and coffee is very important to Americans. Studies show that coffee increases energy levels, burns fat by jump-starting the body's metabolism, improves productivity and brain function. Drinking coffee together is also a way for family, friends and colleagues to connect.
Saint Paul Farmers Market, Maplewood, Minnesota 2023
Norte Café is a dream come true. I always wanted to be able to create value for the society. And what better way than by creating a brand that offers the best coffee in the world? Norte Café is a source of coffee information, so you know what you are drinking, where it comes from, and the faces behind the production.
My wife, Sally, is a coffee lover. She is from Minnesota and has been to Colombia multiple times to visit my family. Sally has witnessed how selective our Colombian coffee is and all the hard work that goes into it, which is why she is my partner on this adventure. She recognizes the value and wants more people to experience Colombian coffee!
Finca Paramitos, Chinchina, Colombia 2022