With people feeling more rushed and stressed these days, it's no wonder caffeine is such a hot commodity.
But most people spend precious time waiting in line at coffee chains, when they could be taking the opportunity to turn a coffee break into a quick escape. Try these local, independent cafes for a refreshing take on how to satisfy your caffeine fix.
The name of this coffee shop means "light" in Latin, and that's what it strives to be for the community. The staff is very service-oriented, so don't be surprised when the barista asks for your name, then wants your life story. There are monthly rotating artist exhibits and a local DJ with an eclectic music list on Friday mornings. The espresso beans are roasted at the store, and the unique blend can be purchased in pound and half-pound bags. Also try the house-lemonade with a sugar-rimmed glass.
This low-key spot is less of a hissing coffee pot and more of a slow-drip brewer. The owners try to create a relaxing atmosphere through minimalist interior design and one-on-one service. You can walk up and order an Americano at the bar or just sit down and wait to be served. The walls are mostly blank, and the contrast of the diverse customers is meant to be the art. Made-to-order breakfast and lunch are served every day with all-organic ingredients.
If you think conspiracy theories don't work, visit this coffee house for an awakening. Founders of the Collectively Operated Local Artist Boutique joined forces with John Sagasta of the Coffee Conspiracy to create this multifunctional boutique/coffeehouse. Here, you can sip on an Americano or iced mocha while shopping fashion lines from more than two-dozen local artists. And what would a good coffee be without a great book? Visit the back room for a creative collection of books to read or buy.
This European-style hangout is more than just a coffeehouse. Along with a full coffee bar, they offer a menu of international foods, beer and more than 20 wines. After sunset, you can dance to '80s and '90s tunes while enjoying a latte or a beer. Also supporters of the arts, this cafe showcases original art on its walls and has six artist studios outside.
Built in 1899, this Victorian tearoom is the perfect place for people who don't like coffee but still crave caffeine. Freshly brewed teas are served with traditional tea-sandwiches and soups, and authentic tea ceremonies are available by reservation. At night, this tearoom offers “mom and pop” Midwestern fare and has live jazz music on weekends.
The cartel here is not just a name. The owner of this coffeehouse developed relationships with farmers the world over who practice eco-friendly growing techniques. The quality coffee ingredients cost the company more, but the owners say the extra isn't passed on to customers. The decor here will transport you back to college days — there's a coffee table consisting of glass on a box and bike tires are used as wall art. The cappuccino is the most popular drink. The baristas pour the drink and don't spoon foam on top.
If you're tired of chocolate mochas, try this authentic, family-owned Mediterranean market for a different kind of coffee. You can sit down and enjoy sweet baklava and strong Turkish coffee served from a bell-shaped Turkish coffee pot. Try the lunch buffet or order hummus and kebabs off the full menu. There's also a hookah bar upstairs or on the patio and belly dancers on Friday and Saturday nights.
This independent coffeehouse is almost 16 years old. It has thrived despite, or perhaps because of, its close location to two corporate coffee stores. Its fresh-roasted beans come from Allann Bros. in Oregon twice a week, and the whipped cream topping is made fresh as needed. During the week, this is a quiet place, perfect for business meetings or studying, while the weekend brings a jazz band and classical guitarist. Try the Mocha Especiale, and make sure to get a frequent-customer punch card.
Fair Trade Cafe
Located in the heart of downtown, this cafe bills its brews as “coffee with a conscience.” The organic coffee brewed here is Fair Trade Certified, which means the farmers who grow the coffee beans practice sustainable farming and use part of their profits to invest in their local communities. The imported beans come mainly from Mexico and Costa Rica. This coffeehouse also supports the arts and has a monthly rotating gallery. Try the Frozen Explosion, a blend of espresso, cream, malt and your choice of flavoring.
Daily Grind
This coffee emporium and bakery offers hot and frozen drinks. For coffee aficionados, there's espresso, café Americano, cappuccino, latte, café au lait and an iced latte. On a hot day, you can't go wrong with a frozen frappuccino or mochaccino. Sit inside or on the patio and take advantage of complimentary WiFi.
Royal Coffee Bar
Small and sleek, this store combines fresh coffee and cool design. The creatively constructed walls are covered in art, and the coffee bar looks as smooth as the brew tastes. There is outdoor seating on a misted patio and free wi-fi. There are urban fashions here, too, and you can do a little shopping while you wait for a cappuccino.
