Hey Friends!
I moved to DC nearly 18 years ago and immediately fell in love with its rich history and culture! Living in Capitol Hill was a defining time for me in so many ways. So, when asked to contribute to this article, I was super excited and honored to mention two of my favorite hidden gems in DC—The Roasted Boon and Sunah Blu. Check out the article below. I am sure you will find some cool new spots to visit in the nation’s capital.
Coffee is more than just a drink; it’s an experience, a ritual, a moment of solace that brings warmth to the soul. For me, Ethiopian coffee, with its rich history and unique flavor profile, holds a special place in my heart. This love story began on a chilly morning in Detroit, Michigan when I stumbled upon a cute little coffee house serving Ethiopian Yirgachefe. Little did I know, this medium dark roast would ignite a passion for one of the world’s most beloved beverages.
A Journey to Ethiopia in Every Sip
Ethiopian coffee is often regarded as the birthplace of coffee, a place steeped in centuries of tradition, culture, and the craftsmanship of the perfect brew. The coffee from this region is celebrated for its distinct flavors, which can range from fruity and floral to earthy and spicy. My first encounter with Ethiopian coffee was invigorating. The complex notes danced around my palate, captivating my senses with each sip.
It wasn’t long before I found myself returning to this beloved variety time and time again. My quest for the perfect Ethiopian brew led me to Trader Joe’s Organic Fair Trade Shade Grown coffee—a medium dark roast that caught my eye while I was perusing the aisles one lazy afternoon.
Trader Joe’s Organic Fair Trade Shade Grown Coffee: A New Favorite
The moment I opened the bag of Trader Joe’s Organic Fair Trade Shade Grown coffee, I was met with an incredible aroma that filled the air with deep, rich scents. It entices you to brew a cup and indulge. The lush smell is a prelude to the symphony of flavors that the beans offer.
Once brewed, the medium dark roast showcased a beautifully balanced cup of coffee. Its medium body is neither too heavy nor too light, making it incredibly versatile for any time of day. With just the right amount of depth, it carries the distinct Ethiopian characteristics I adore while providing a smooth finish that lingers without overwhelming the palate.
What truly sets this coffee apart is the commitment to quality and ethics. Being both organic and fair trade means that the farmers are not only receiving fair compensation for their hard work, but the cultivation process also supports sustainable farming practices. This aspect resonates deeply with me; knowing that my morning ritual contributes positively to the well-being of others makes each cup all the more enjoyable.
Brewing the Perfect Cup
Brewing my coffee has become a cherished morning ritual. I like to grind the beans just before brewing to maximize freshness, allowing the rich aroma to envelop my space. I prefer my Ethiopian coffee with a splash of cream—just enough to enhance the natural sweetness without overpowering the complex flavor notes. Each sip transports me to the highlands of Ethiopia, where coffee is not just a beverage but a cultural ceremony.
A Love Story to Cherish
In many ways, my journey with Ethiopian coffee and the Trader Joe’s Organic Fair Trade Shade Grown brew is a love story—one that bridges the gap between tradition and modern convenience, between heritage and everyday life. As I savor each cup, I am reminded of the rich tapestry that coffee weaves through our shared experiences. It’s a drink that warms not only the body but also the heart, connecting us all in simple yet profound ways.
So the next time you find yourself in need of a comforting brew, consider trying Ethiopian coffee, specifically the enticing medium dark roast from Trader Joe’s. The delightful aroma, balanced body, and ethical sourcing will make you fall in love, too. Who knows? It could be the beginning of your own coffee love story.
Vigilante Coffee: “Uplifting others through Specility Coffee”
This coffee house is one of my favorites in the DMV! Located in Hyattsville, MD; Vigilante is a whole vibe. It has an industrial-look with an airy feel. A roastery and cafe serving artisanal java made from organic and fair-trade beans.
The cool atmosphere allows one to settle into an amazing cup of coffee. Oberving the roasting process is an added bonus.
I personally got to know the proprietors Chris and Ashely years ago when I had the awesome opportunity of supplying the shop with my fresh made granola. One of my best jobs ever! Their passion for the coffee industry shines through in every cup. And the staff are some of the kindest and most professional I have experienced in all of my MANY visits to coffee houses around the world.
On today’s #esspressotrips, I enjoyed an espresso shot with a sidecar! The sidecar was sparkling water. This was a first for me. So, I decided to do a bit of research. It turns out that sparkling water is served alongside an espresso to improve the customer experience. In fact, Jason Reed Miller, director of coffee at Mazarine Coffee in San Francisco’s bustling financial district told Maggie Spicer at Edible magazine (July 2015) “The act of serving water as an unexpected accompaniment expands the experience of drinking espresso in a café.” This resonates with me because I was able to cleanse my palate before I enjoyed the flavor burst of the morning!
If you are ever in the DMV I highly recommend you visit Vigilante! Check them out on Instagram @vigilantecoffee
Thank you Vigilante for another great and different coffee experience!
Yours in coffee,
Alicia
This New Eritrean-Owned Coffee Shop opened in July 2020 in the Shaw neighborhood on the northwest side of DC; just months after COVID-19 reared its ugly head in the US. This must have been a challenge but they seem to be working through the ups and downs of this pandemic. I had the opportunity to visit this coffee house today and was very pleased with my Iced Oat milk Latte. If you have been following me for any length of time you know I love this drink. And the fact that they roast the beans in house is a win-win for me. But this latte had a unique depth about it. It was rich, earthy and subtly sweet with subtle notes of dark chocolate. On my next visit I plan to try their signature beverage: The Shaw Latte; which is made with French vanilla syrup and nutmeg. Lightly sweetened for me please! They also serve a variety of pastries, frappes, smoothies and wine too.
Besides my love for coffee and supporting local shops; I must admit the name intrigued me. Boon? Not bean? It’s not a typo my friends. A “boon” is a traditional coffee-making ceremony in Eritrea. It is performed for events such as a birth, death, when having over special guests, or just to pass the time away. Now, I really like the play on words and the logo which has two coffee beans in place of the o’s in boon.
With adequate “social distancing” seating (inside and out), I look forward to visiting this shop again during the warmer weather. This is truly a place that I would frequent often if I lived close by. Are you in the DC or planning a visit? Check out this gem located nicely in the Shaw neighborhood.
Coffee love,
Alicia
Enjoy your day😉
Coffee love,
Alicia
Also, before I share my first experience with trying one of my most favorite drinks at an independently owned coffeehouse and after coming to terms with my age and my evolving taste buds I must first set the parameters of which I will engage in this search and quest for the java that jams! Foremost, it has to be a stark contrast to how, when and why I partake. No more driving up, convenience or coffee chains, and way more free/fair trade, fair and environmentally responsible and sound.
Let’s also establish that coffee has become a good friend in the morning or early afternoon as the caffeine is just the jumpstart I need as I strive for that boost of clarity in my work as a consultant juggling multiple tasks, lists and errands. Another benefit is that I travel as a part of my work and sometimes the road can get monotonous. So, my plan will be to locate a small coffeehouse within walking distance of my hotel and stroll there to order my cup of joe. I will journal the taste, my in house experience and record the sights, sounds and smells! I am so excited!
My first experience on this journey of becoming the coffee snob I have always wanted to be was a trip to Santa Cruz, California. I stayed at a chain hotel fairly close to the downtown area. I walked approximately 4,000 steps one way to my desired destination. The first lesson I learned is that not all cafes specialize in coffee. This place was quaint and nestled on a quiet corner but adjacent were my favorite kind of self-care stores full of sage, crystals, tie-dyed clothing and incense! I was in my element! It was certainly not a surprise to me that the cafe was named after Saturn, where the stars and solar worlds meet and clash and beam and glow. The streets on my way to the cafe where also lined with moon and stars, astrology and religion, rocks, wood and nature. I enjoyed this walk!
Kalimah
(Guest blogger)
(photo credit: yelp.com)
On a leisurely walk through Old Town Scottsdale (looking for coffee), I became captivated by the beautiful flowers pictured above. All of a sudden a lady came through these rod iron gates with what looked to be an iced coffee beverage in her hand. I curiously asked, “Where did you get that coffee? I am looking for a coffee house” She replied, “right through those gates.” I counted it as a blessing and moved through the gates quickly. What I found was nothing short of beautiful. It was a courtyard; a sanctuary of sorts. It was filled with more flowers and a lovely fountain with beautiful seating for all to enjoy. The excitement I felt was overwhelming because I knew a great coffee treat would be on the other side!
(photo credit: yelp.com)
So, with great expectation I perused the menu and spoke with the barista regarding iced beverages. I decided to order the cold brew, lightly sweetened with agave and a splash of half and half. My, my, my, it was amazing! Perfectly brewed. Perfectly balanced. Perfectly smooth!
My experience here was extraordinary. If you are ever in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area, check out Schmooze in Old Town Scottsdale. It was one of the best coffee venues I have visited.
Schmooze on in,
Alicia:)
Photo credit: Trip Advisor
Late for the Train is a coffee house located in Flagstaff, AZ. My family and I went to the Fort Valley location, which appears to be a converted gas station. Pretty unique indeed. The owner; David Dobrick and his team are “dedicated to creating a mountain fresh difference by combining coffee sourced from unique soils, micro-climates, cultivars, and growers’ skills”. I am happy to be the beneficiary of this dedication:)
In addition to roasting their own beans, Late for the train has a wide variety of coffee and tea beverages, and food offerings. Which includes locally sourced cookies, pastries and sandwiches. We shared chocolate chip cookies, zucchini bread and a chocolate danish. All were really good.
My husband had the COCONINO MOCHA, which is an iced beverage made with their signature cold brew and homemade chocolate sauce. I had a half sweet, iced Black and White with an extra shot of espresso. Both where really good but my favorite was the Black and White. In fact, it was the best one I have had!!
If you are in the area, be sure to give this place a try (www.lateforthetrain.com). It is the perfect midway point from the Grand Canyon to Phoenix.
Yours in Coffee,
Alicia
New Order Coffee Roasters is located on the ground floor of Midtown’s Crystal Loft Building and near Grey Ghost Detroit. From the moment you walk inside, their mission to “delight and energize your everyday life” is clearly evident. The decor alone will take you to a happy place. The color scheme is aqua, orange and white, almost giving you the feeling of being in a candy store.
New Order is not your average coffee shop. They start off the right way by carefully selecting their beans and roasting them in small batches on site. However, what sets them apart is their fun and whimsical approach to making their beverages.
Customers can order drinks like the Cereal Milk latte, lattes with flavor-infused homemade marshmallows and M&M ganache. New Order Coffee also offers sweet and savory pastries and specialty foods and candies. They offer several brew methods and have Nitro of tap too! On our visit, my husband and I order the Cracker Jack latte (…and yes, it came with a prized! LOL) and the Marshmallow latte. Both were terrific and the Frosted Flake milk had us feeling nostalgic. “Who thought of this?” I asked my Barista. She replied, someone who is truly a kid at heart! Yes indeed! Another really cool thing about this coffee shop is that customers can buy freshly roasted coffee beans right there on the spot! The roasting can be customized to suit their taste and they can walk out of the shop with a warm bag of beans to brew at home roasted just for them in minutes. How awesome is that?
The proprietors at New Order are truly on to something fresh and new in the coffee world. They are a great addition to Midtown Detroit and I look forward to my next Esspressotrip there. Check them out if you are in the area: www.newordercoffee.com Also, go to my Instagram page to see my Cracker Jack Latte. My IG page is: Sweetsations
Yours in Coffee,
Alicia
Ciao (Hello)!
On a recent visit to Italy, I quickly learned that the way we drink and order coffee in the United States is completely different than the Italians. First of all, Italians drink espresso drinks all through out the day. At least 7-8 drinks daily. The portion sizes are significantly smaller and you will not find a Quad Venti Latte option on the menu. No Grande Caramel Macchiato in the streets of Venice! Not a chance! However, what you will find is a rich and luxurious cup of espresso. Bursting with rich flavor and without six pumps of white mocha:) Another important and defining difference is that coffee is consumed while standing -something that hardly ever occurs in the States! Unless, the coffee is ordered “to-go” in a disposable cup for walking. Also, there are no “coffee houses” in Italy. For the most part, one would order coffee from what is called “A Bar”
I am happy to say that I had my first shot of espresso in Italy! Rich~Dark~Smooth is how I would describe it. It is served in a very small cup, on a saucer with a small spoon. Definitely worth the wait. I also had my share of Cafe con Panas, Cappuccinos, and Cafe Lattes. A true favorite was the Affogato with Amaretto Gelato! Yummo!!!
When you visit Italy, order your espresso like the natives and Enjoy!
Fino alla prossima volta (until next time),
Alicia
esspressotrips 