Roastbook is a self-hosted coffee journal app that tracks espresso shots, beans, and brewing data with optional AI assistance for label scanning, roaster research, and brew recommendations. Users retain full control over their data stored on personal infrastructure, with AI features requiring an OpenAI API key and offering detailed brewing analytics and mobile-first design.
East Germany faced chronic coffee shortages due to climate constraints and Cold War trade restrictions, prompting a partnership with Vietnam to develop coffee plantations. This unlikely collaboration transformed Vietnam into the world's second-largest coffee producer, representing a fascinating but overlooked chapter of Cold War industrial cooperation.