Meet the Founders of Medici Roasting: The Coffee Shop That Grew With Austin

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TLDR

When Michael and Alison Vaclav first crossed paths at Metro Espresso Bar on Guadalupe Street, they had no idea their love for coffee—and each other—would lead to the creation of one of Austin’s most recognized coffee brands.

In 2006, the couple opened Medici Roasting in Clarksville’s West Lynn neighborhood, laying the foundation for what would become a citywide institution. Today, with multiple locations across Austin, including one at the Austin Airport, Medici has seamlessly woven itself into the fabric of the city—providing consistency, warmth, and expertly crafted coffee to locals and visitors alike.

But Medici isn’t just about coffee. It’s a reflection of intention, philosophy, and a deep respect for craft and community—values that have been at the core of Michael and Alison’s journey from the beginning.

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The Medici Paradox: A Balance Between Speed and Perfection

For the Vaclavs, making great coffee isn’t just about getting drinks out fast—it’s about doing it well. They embrace what they call the Medici Paradox: "Make Haste Slowly"—a concept rooted in the tension between efficiency and quality.

On one hand, customers expect quick service—they have places to be, schedules to keep. On the other, a perfectly crafted coffee takes time, requiring skill, patience, and precision. How do you serve quickly without compromising quality? How do you slow down enough to get it right without frustrating the person in line?

This balance between speed and craftsmanship is something Medici’s baristas perfect every day, ensuring that each cup meets the highest standards while keeping service smooth and seamless. It’s a challenge, but one that speaks to the very essence of Medici’s philosophy—thoughtful execution without cutting corners.

A Brand Rooted in History and Philosophy

The name Medici isn’t just a clever choice—it’s a nod to the powerful Medici family of Florence, known for their patronage of the arts, humanities, and intellectual movements during the Renaissance. While the Vaclavs don’t claim a direct connection, they saw in the Medici name an icon of human progress, creativity, and ambition—qualities they wanted to instill in their own coffee brand.

Michael, a history and philosophy enthusiast, was particularly drawn to this theme, and it’s reflected in Medici Roasting’s brand ethos. Every café is designed to foster conversation, creativity, and collaboration—a place where the community gathers, much like the intellectual salons of the past.

From their meticulous coffee sourcing to the way they engage with the Austin community, the Vaclavs have built more than a brand—they’ve created a philosophy of hospitality and craft that resonates across all their locations.

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