Kimbo: Neapolitan coffee since 1963 | Cafemalin

The Kimbo story in 90 seconds

The Kimbo adventure began in 1963 in Naples —the historic and global capital of espresso. The three Rubino brothers (Francesco, Elio, and Gerardo) created a roasting process faithful to Neapolitan tradition : darker roasts than those from the North (Turin, Trieste), more full-bodied blends, a generous body, and a dense crema. This strong identity immediately distinguished Kimbo from other Italian brands and positioned it as the benchmark for traditional, full-bodied espresso.

From the 1970s and 80s onwards, Kimbo established itself as the leading Neapolitan brand and expanded its distribution throughout Italy. The brand has maintained its family ties to Rubino SpA —never surrendered to financialization—allowing it to preserve its slow, low-temperature roasting process and its identity as an authentic Neapolitan coffee. The historic slogan "L'espresso napoletano" (The Neapolitan espresso) reflects this commitment to regional authenticity.

Today, Kimbo is the number two B2C coffee brand in Italy (behind Lavazza) and distributes its coffee in over 40 countries. The brand is an official sponsor of SSC Napoli (football, Serie A) — a strong cultural connection that embodies the Neapolitan identity of coffee. Kimbo operates its main production facility in Melito di Napoli, complements its traditional whole bean range with capsule (Nespresso Original compatible, Dolce Gusto compatible, Kimbo Original), and is progressively developing Rainforest Alliance for its green coffee.

Kimbo's expertise

What has defined Kimbo since 1963: 4 pillars of expertise which explain the No. 2 positioning in Italy B2C and the global reach of Neapolitan coffee.

Neapolitan roasting

Slow roasted at a low temperature, darker than the traditional Turin (Lavazza) or Trieste (Illy) roast. The bean develops notes of cocoa, toast, and spices characteristic of Parthenopean espresso. Generous body, dense crema, long finish.

Arabica & Robusta Blends

Kimbo's signature coffee is based on a balanced blend of Arabica (sweetness, aromas) and Robusta (body, crema, caffeine). Each blend— Prestige, Extra Cream, Cremoso, Espresso Mix, Armonico —adjusts these proportions for a specific profile.

Multi-system ecosystem

In addition to its traditional 1kg bean range, Kimbo has launched capsule lines : Kimbo Original (proprietary system), compatible with Nespresso Original , and compatible with Nescafé Dolce Gusto . All capsules feature the company's signature Neapolitan style.

Neapolitan anchor

Headquartered and produced in Melito di Napoli (northern suburb of Naples), official sponsor of SSC Napoli (Serie A football), partner of Campania cultural events. Kimbo embodies the Neapolitan identity of coffee: espresso just like in Naples.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long has the Kimbo brand existed?

Kimbo was founded in 1963 in Naples , Italy, by the three Rubino brothers — Francesco, Elio, and Gerardo. The brand was born from the desire to market an espresso true to Neapolitan tradition : darker roast than Northern roasters, more full-bodied blends, generous body, and dense crema.

The brand will celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2026, while remaining a family business (Rubino SpA) that has never succumbed to financialization. Today, Kimbo is the number two B2C coffee brand in Italy and distributes in over 40 countries.

Where is Kimbo coffee made?

Kimbo is roasted in Italy, at its main industrial site in Melito di Napoli (northern suburb of Naples, Campania region). The company receives green coffee from the main producing countries (Brazil, Vietnam, India, Uganda, Colombia, Honduras, etc.), selected according to strict specifications to maintain the consistency of Kimbo blends over time.

The roasting process uses the slow, low-temperature Neapolitan method , unlike rapid industrial roasting: the beans develop a darker color, a more intense body, and the dense crema characteristic of Neapolitan espresso. Each blend is then packaged in a protective atmosphere with a one-way valve to preserve freshness.

Which is the best Kimbo product to try first?

Kimbo Prestige is the absolute best-seller in the range and the best entry point into the Neapolitan world. A balanced blend of dark roast Arabica and Robusta, with chocolate and toasty notes, an intense body, and a long finish — the benchmark blend for a full-bodied, traditional Neapolitan-style Italian espresso.

Other blends to consider depending on your preferences:

  • Kimbo Extra Cream — if you are looking for a dense and long-lasting cream for cappuccino or latte art.
  • Kimbo Espresso Mix — for a very strong , intense Italian-style espresso
  • Kimbo Armonico — more Arabica, balanced blend, finer and more harmonious notes.
What is the difference between Kimbo and Lavazza or Illy?

It's a question ofItalian regional identity — each brand embodies a school of espresso:

  • KimboNeapolitan school (Southern Italy). Dark roast , Arabica + Robusta blend, intense and full- bodied . Traditional southern espresso style.
  • LavazzaTurin school (North industrial). Balanced multi-origin blends, medium roast, more versatile, geared towards mass distribution.
  • IllyTrieste school (Northeast). Lighter roast , 100% Arabica only (9 origin blend), delicate notes, refined coffee.

Kimbo is the choice of lovers of authentic Neapolitan espresso , full-bodied and with a long finish — espresso as it is drunk in Naples.

Does Kimbo offer organic or sustainably certified coffee?

Yes, Kimbo is gradually developing socially conscious product lines:

  • Kimbo BIO OrganicEuropean organic certified blend , traceable sourcing, available in grains and capsules in certain ranges.
  • Rainforest Alliance — part of Kimbo's green coffee sourcing is Rainforest Alliance certified (biodiversity preservation, fair income for producers).

Kimbo is also a partner of the Napoli Autism Friendly and undertakes several social responsibility actions rooted in its Campania region. Consult the product sheet for each item to verify applicable certifications (BIO, Rainforest Alliance, UTZ, etc.).

How to choose between Kimbo beans and Kimbo capsules?

The choice depends on your machine and your priorities :

  • Whole bean coffee — for automatic machines with integrated grinders, professional espresso machines with grinders, or separate grinders. Best value for money, optimal aroma (ground just before extraction), available in 1 kg household packs to 6 x 1 kg professional packs. Absolute bestseller: Kimbo Prestige 1 kg.
  • Nespresso compatible capsules — for Nespresso Original machines (not Vertuo). Maximum convenience, guaranteed dosage, preserved Neapolitan style.
  • Compatible Dolce Gusto capsules — for Nescafé Dolce Gusto machines (Piccolo, Genio, Krups Melody, etc.).

In terms of pure cup quality, freshly ground coffee beans remain superior. However, capsules win in terms of convenience and consistency.

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