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Baltimore Coffee and Tea (BTC) ~ Annapolis Maryland

pictured from yelp.com

pictured from yelp.com

I walked into the Baltimore Coffee and Tea Coffee Shop (BTC) with great anticipation. It’s what I do. I love coffee houses and get really amped about the experience they can bring.

The aroma in BTC is amazing! They have an endless amount of coffee beans and teas for purchase by the pound. There’s lots of cozy seating and is an overall good spot to relax, read, and get a bite to eat. The menu is  pretty extensive for a coffee shop too. Soups, sandwiches, salads, and pastries are among the many gourmet food offerings.  I ordered the tuna melt sandwich.  It was very good.

Now, for the latte(s), I ordered the Snow Angel, which is a latte with dark chocolate and vanilla syrup. It had a pretty unpleasant finished so I sent it back to the Barista.   I assumed that the dark chocolate didn’t agree with me. So, I asked if I could try something different. We settled on a Crème Brule, which is a latte with caramel and vanilla syrup. This latte was worst.  It caused me to become nauseous. I really couldn’t believe it!

Now, for the latte(s), I ordered the Snow Angel, which is a latte with dark chocolate and vanilla syrup. It had a pretty unpleasant finished so I sent it back to the Barista.   I assumed that the dark chocolate didn’t agree with me. So, I asked if I could try something different. We settled on a Crème Brule, which is a latte with caramel and vanilla syrup. This latte was worst.  It caused me to become nauseous. I really couldn’t believe it!

The staff and the tuna melt were great but the Lattes….not so much. While it is not likely I go to BTC for a latte, I may go for a sandwich and iced tea!

Baltimore Coffee and Tea~ baltcoffee.com

Coffee Love,

Alicia

BeanRushCafe

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BeanRushCafe_pic

Pictured:Yelp.com

BeanRushCafe~Roaster-Baker-Sandwich Maker~ beanrushcafe.com

Crownsville, Maryland

The Bean Rush Cafe is a hidden jewel in Crownsville, MD.  I would describe it as not only a hidden jewel, but also an unassuming treasure. This coffee and teahouse has a lot to offer.  The menu has sandwiches, soups, salads, pastries, AND Oh Yes…Coffee!  I had the pleasure of partaking in the Honey Bee Latte (lightly sweeten) and LET me tell you it was remarkably delicious.  It had a very smooth taste and it didn’t come with the bitter finish that some espresso drinks have.  I also had the Soup and Sandwich Combo-Tuna Sandwich on wheat and Turkey Chili (Yumo!)

The BeanRushCafe staff presented as very polite, patient and knowledgeable of the menu items.  It’s warm and inviting atmosphere will bring me back to this “Hometown” establishment.  The proprietors have it right in terms of customer service, menu items and of course good ole’ espresso! Check it out!

Coffee Love,

Alicia


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Ebenezer’s~ Coffee with a Cause

Ebenezer~ Coffee with a Cause~ ebenezerscoffeehouse.com

Washington, DC

Image

As a Christian and Human Services Provider I understand the mission of Ebenezer’s Coffee House.  They offer and sale Fair Trade Coffee to support producers in developing countries to make better trading conditions and promote sustainability. According to their website they are owed and operated by the National Community Church and all proceeds go to their Outreach Programs. Ebenezer offers a small variety of baked goods and devotional books for your edification.

I have visited this Coffee House on many occasions and find it to be one of the most consistent in terms of service and in products. I have ordered various iced and hot espresso drinks.  They have all been very good.  Most recently, I order the Toasted Marshmallow Latte (seasonal item).  It was so very delicious.  The flavor was bold but smooth.  It was very hot (unlike some coffee shops) and lightly sweetened.

Coffee with a Cause is all right with me!  Check them out: http://ebenezerscoffeehouse.com/ .  You will see that their products and service is superb!

Coffee Love,

Alicia

Marty’s Market Pittsburgh PA~ Strip District

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Photo credit: http://www.inthestrip-pgh.com/

 Photo credit: http://www.inthestrip-pgh.com/

Marty’s Market~

http://martysmarket.com/

Pittsburgh PA~ Strip District

During our Annual Family Reunion In May 2013, we had the opportunity to visit the Strip District of Pittsburgh PA. Personally, I went there in search of a good ‘ole espresso drink.  Well, I found that and a lot more! Marty’s Market.

This Market is an incredible venue. I am sure the locals enjoy this meeting place, but it is certainly a destination for visitors.  The “Farm Fresh” Cafe offers great tasting, locally inspired foods that are uniquely pleasing to the palate. The market offers, fresh organic produce, a wide variety of spices, dairy and other pantry staples.  The coffee bar is one of the best I have ever visited. They serve single origin coffee, loose teas and a few pastries. I ordered the Honey Cardamom Latte. This latte was Nothing Like I Had EVER tasted.  It was terrific. So smooth, lightly sweeten and the cardamom takes the experience to another level. I enjoyed it so much that I went back the next day.

Great Service, Great Food, and GREAT COFFEE!


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4thebest.clickondetroit.com

4thebest.clickondetroit.com

Avalon International Breads~ The Sweet Spot in Mid- Town~Detroit Michigan

Avalon has become one of my favorite places to visit in Detroit. It is a great meeting place with a rustic, but welcoming atmosphere.  They have the best brewed coffee. The Latte is the creamiest you will find in Mid Town Detroit.  Not only is it smooth and creamy, but its bold flavor paired with its creamy texture offers a perfect balance and finish.  Now, I am not typically one for iced coffee, but Oh My Goodness is their’s good? Yes!!!  It has a unique velvety texture that makes for an enjoyable treat on a hot summer day.

While I must admit that initially I went there for the coffee, their organic baked goods are amazing!  The Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookie is completely Insane! Other favorites are the, Cranny Granny Muffin, Brioche, Brownie, Peanut butter and the Molasses Cookies.

Again,  I love the rustic atmosphere and the personable service is unique. Avalon International Breads is a staple in Detroit’s Mid-Town and is a favorite among many.

Avalon Bakery ~ http://www.avalonbreads.net/goodies/breads/

Coffee Love,

Alicia

 


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Murky Coffee……….Missing you again…:(

dcmetrocentric.com

dcmetrocentric.com

Murky Coffee: Reopened in Arlington VA

As soon as I learned Murky reopened their doors in Arlington VA, I grabbed my purse and dashed out of the door for some of this good ‘ole coffee.  With eager anticipation “again” I approached the counter where the cashier was waiting to happily take my order. The decor: different from the DC location in terms of seating, decorations, etc. was slightly more modern.  It looked more like a chain coffee spot but still inviting nonetheless.   I ordered my usual, a triple shot latte with one shot of white mocha.  My husband and I sat outside to enjoy the new spot. The coffee was divine! It was perfect! It was delicious.  It was grand! We visited there a few more times only to find out that this location closed too.  My heart was simply broken yet again.  This was just too sad.  Have you been there?  Do you know what I mean?  How I feel?