Coffee has evolved from a simple drink into a world wide phenomenon, a status symbol and a prized ritual and a journey of self indulgence, all rolled into one magical trip. A trip that, up until recently, many referred to as a diversion, or merely an interruption of their day in progress. A cup of coffee used to be simply needed; now, it is cherished, evaluated, and even rewarded upon ourselves. The act of enjoying coffee has transformed not into just an industry, but into a way of life.
Starbucks, the globally recognized mascot of the coffee industry, has catapulted the coffee experience into the proverbial stratosphere with its countless signs of the "ultimate" in consuming what was once a very simple breakfast beverage for most people. Along with other dedicated companies around the world, coffee drinkers have been introduced to a lexicon and vocabulary of terms and phrases that, back in the sixties and seventies, would have been better put to use in bars. Instead of bartenders, we have baristas; instead of coffee regular, we have mild or dark roast; instead of lattes, we have double long espresso macchiatos. The lingo has helped to make things exciting, romantic, adventurous; but has it all become too much to swallow?
The great thing about coffee - one of many things, rather - is that it has many stories to tell, with many interesting characters, plot twists, along with plenty of comedy and intrigue. While on the road during our RV adventures, Chantal and I have been lucky to discover and enjoy alternative coffee experiences that have nothing to do with corporate labels or boring habits or false expectations. This is not to say that the Green Giant cannot deliver on fantastic coffee; however, there are so many independent coffee houses out there, and we wanted to explore as many as we could along the way.
Here are just a few that we have sampled on the American highways:
Cafe Du Monde, New Orleans, Louisiana:
One of the few places I've been where it's a treat just to line up for take out. Forget trying to wait for a table in the courtyard; go for the window and know what you want, just make sure you get a bag of beignets along with your coffees; if the caffeine doesn't get you, the sugar on the donuts will. Just knowing that you stood in line not too far from Mardi Gras to get your morning fix will be half the coffee experience, I promise you.
The Lazy Lizard Cafe, Key West, Florida:
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| Lazy Lizard Cafe, Key West FL |
Cafes began looking like bars over thirty years ago to maintain the vibe of getting away from it all to enjoy a good drink, except without the cost of alcohol and the intoxication that went with it. The Lazy Lizard Cafe is steps away from the southernmost point in the United States, and, combined with a cool patio and inventive menu and relaxing breeze, will make enjoying any brew, hot or cold, that much more fulfilling. We had cuban coffees, a strong latte mixed with sugar cane whisked into the espresso, not for all tastes but very delicious. Of course, you can enjoy almost anything with a view like this...
The Jahva House, Artesia, New Mexico:
Truly a hidden gem, we almost missed it with all the ongoing construction on the town's main street. But it was worth the search. Inside, there are beans and loose tea leaves on display in jars; an open bible at the counter and crosses everywhere give off a religious but not preachy vibe; a cool menu with items such as the Dog Pile, a double roast beef sandwich and two types of cheese; and, a quiet lounge with dark leather sofas. Chantal's latte was hot and frothy; my white mocha and caramel jahvacino with whipped cream was a perfect treat.
Starbucks, Disney Springs, Orlando, Florida:
One of the busiest locations I've ever seen, and we were outside on a weeknight. No fewer than twelve baristas were preparing drinks for about thirty of us in the courtyard, a mixture of hot and cold items for a variety of ages. But it was all handled smoothly with plenty of smiles, and of course Disney would expect no less. This experience was unlike any other Starbucks encounter because it stood out, and my vanilla latte did not disappoint, either.
The Hen & The Roost, Milton, Ontario, Canada:
Okay, this last one is outside of the USA but I can't help showing off my Canuck roots. This little cafe is in the older part of Milton, west of Toronto, and it definitely has the bar vibe going for it, helped by the fact you can order a beer here, too. The menu reads like a fun novel on the wall, and we sat at the bar to watch our barista make our drinks. It was quiet, relaxing, and our coffees were amazing.
We can't wait to try our next coffee or espresso or cappuccino as we continue our trek across the roads that lie ahead. Please tell me about your special coffee adventures that you have enjoyed off the beaten path! Thanks for reading, and enjoy your next cup!
Rob
