It’s coffee mania all up in here. New York has gone coffee crazy as of late. Starbucks, which used to be on almost every street corner, is getting some stiff competition from numerous artisanal coffee bars and cafes where coffee and the art of making it is being taken super seriously. The New York Times recently published an article on the fact that the city is no longer second-string when it comes to finding a good cup.
I, for one, have always taken my coffee seriously. As in I seriously need a cup or two in the morning. I prefer it strong, usually make by own, and have nothing against Starbucks, as passé as it has become.
French Press
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Portland, OR for the first time, for the wedding of two very special people. Portland is home to many wonderful attractions, one of which is Stumptown Coffee Roasters. I had read about Stumptown and know a few people who swear by their coffee but had never really given it much thought. Upon checking in to our hotel room, we discovered a welcome basket lovingly prepared by the soon to be bride and groom. One of the elements in the basket? A bag of Stumptown coffee – Ecuador Quilanga Reserva.
On the next morning, I visited Mother’s Bistro for breakfast and was given too many coffee options. After much deliberation and questioning of our server, we finally settled on a French Press pot for two of the Stumptown Indonesia Gajah Aceh. Stumptown again. Could it really be better than some of my local favorites? The short answer is YES.
I then visited the Stumptown shop once a day during my remaining days in Portland. While there, I bought a bag of this Indonesia Gajah Aceh. Upon my return to NYC, I purchased my first French Press. Although I still have my regular, not so artisanal blend, during the week, I now grind my Stumptown to order, alternating between Ecuador and Indonesia, press it and savor it on the weekend.
And the good news is that when I run out I can replenish my beans at the newly opened Stumptown outpost in NYC’s Ace Hotel. Not that I would mind making a return visit to Portland….
mix.bake.stir 