The Coffee Bump: April 2009

Thursday, April 30, 2009

It is Time to Start Roasting Your Coffee!

Ch-ch-check it out. Home roasting coffee trends are on the rise, and I think it is time for you to jump on board. What you probably are aware of as a crazy coffee fan is that the generic canned coffee that you buy at your local grocer is way beyond stale. The point is that whole roasted beans will retain their freshness for about two weeks, and when you freshly grind them you have about two hours of premium quality. If you invest in a home roaster, you will be able to have your own “roast profile” ( which is a recipe to all you non-roasters out there), and customize your own coffee blend that tastes just like you. What more can you ask for? I think it is time…

The 411 on Cold Brewing Coffee

If you have not heard of this alternate method for brewing coffee then you are in luck since I am about to add some much needed variety to your coffee drinking habits. Cold brewed coffee actually does have a few health benefits, like having less caffeine and less acidity than regular coffee, so if you are subject to heartburn and insomnia then this may be right up your alley! First, you will need a pitcher and a fabric filter for siphoning and filtering your cold brewed coffee. You will also want to take 1 pound of freshly ground coffee and mix it with 9 cups of cold water so it can sit overnight for 12 hours. After that, filter your cold brewed coffee into the pitcher and let it sit in your fridge for two weeks so that it becomes a syrup. From there, you can use this concoction to make delicious summer coffee beverages unlike any you may have had before! Please note that the shelf life for your cold brewed coffee syrup is one week. Delightful!

The Right Way to Drink Your Coffee

No, I’m not going to tell you how to spruce up your coffee drinks so that they taste better- because I hope you are already drinking the best coffee brew out there for you! What I am going to share with you is a new study that has shown that the best way to utilize the caffeine in your coffee intake is to drink numerous small cups throughout the day instead of large quantities only in the morning. This may seem like something that you could be concerned with as far as affecting your sleep may go, but if you are not overdoing it on ridiculous amounts of caffeine, then splitting up your coffee drinks throughout the day will keep you on an even keel instead of having the classic caffeine crash that we all encounter by 11 in the morning. Start your day right!

Get More Out of Your Cup of Joe

Great news, coffee drinkers out there! There are actually a few little-known home remedies that are currently circulating for some great ways that you can recycle your used coffee grounds. This may sound a little too granola for you, but when you see the awesome uses for the old coffee grounds that you are throwing away every day, you will be a believer. First, you can sprinkle used coffee grounds into your garden to enrich your plant life. Second, if you are having an ant problem in your yard, you will be glad to know that putting coffee grounds in that area will keep the little suckers away. And lastly, if you are wanting to reduce the appearance of your cellulite, you can mix coffee grounds with olive oil and apply that to your problem areas for some help. Remember to cover those areas with Saran wrap while the grounds sit to reduce a mess! That’s all for today, but I’m happy to know that I can have a clear conscience by tapping into these eco-friendly uses for my old coffee grounds. Thanks, Joe!

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Starbucks Fails in Australia!

What can you find in the Land Down Under? Nary a Starbucks for miles! Isn’t that odd, and a little delightful? It turns out that the Aussies are on their A games because they have been educating and developing their own coffee counter culture for years that beats most countries coffee drinking habits in terms of sophistication and class. So while you may be looking all glazed over in line for the Starbucks drive through, your Aussie friend on the other side of the world is concocting his or her own authentic espresso drink from the finest beans available. Don’t you feel jealous?

A Tip for Summer Coffee Drinks

If you are a fan of iced coffee drinks for a hot day, and let’s face it- who isn’t?- then I have a great tip for you to give you the maximum in flavor for all of your hot weather coffee drinks. What you can do is take the leftovers from all of your morning pots and freeze them to make unique coffee ice cubes. These can remain in your fridge to be used as needed, and they will truly save you from watering down your summer coffee drinks and totally destroying the flavor. Your taste buds and all of your coffee drinking guests will thank you!

Monday, April 27, 2009

Your Espresso Machine is Worth the Investment!

Today, class, we will be doing a math lesson. If you are drinking a $3 latte every day, and so is your significant other, then we are looking at a $6 a day coffee habit, on the modest side. Multiply that for your whole year, and that is over two grand, which can buy you two or three very snazzy espresso machines. Hmm… are we letting coffee houses get the best of us? It may seem like a little chunk of change to buy your first pro espresso machine, but from there, you are set in the coffee savings plan. Not to mention all of the popularity you are gaining with your new latté art designs. Am I right? Class dismissed.

The Science Behind Your Roasted Espresso Beans

As you are sipping your daily latte, you may be totally unaware of all of the scientific discoveries that it took to give you the flavor you are so enjoying. And, no, I am not joking! The fine art of roasting the espresso beans itself stems from the scientific process of the sugar being steamed to the proper temperatures to truly caramelize the bean and give it the bold and rich flavors that make it so popular. If you are looking to perfect your home espresso brewed drinks, then consider the science behind what you are doing, and choose the best espresso beans out there. It is more than the thought that counts- it is the art and craft behind your drink!

Sunday, April 26, 2009

50 Best Coffee Shops Worldwide

Finding a great coffee is something that should be treasured, and something that is vital when you cross any state lines or international waters. If you are a guy or gal on the go, then this post will be your own personal Jesus in helping you to always have the best and most unique coffee house within reach to satiate your thirst for the Java. Let us begin.

Cafe Harlequin in York: I thought that the English were all about the tea, but I was so wrong. All of the cappuccinos are served with expert latte art, so make your way to 2 Kings Square in York, England.
Coffee Hill Coffee Company in Cincinnati: This coffee house was voted the best in all of Cincinnati, and even boasts two of its own special blends. Get yourself to Ohio!
The Daily Grind in Phoenix: This is apparently the best coffee shop joint in downtown Phoenix, so when you are in the area, check out its stylish and mod decor as you sip your latte. Perfect!
Boston Coffeehouse in Orlando: If you are looking for a great place to perk up in the Orlando, Florida area, then head to 12789 Waterford Lakes Pkwy for quality coffee in flavor and taste.
Sant Ambroeus in New York: This Madison Avenue location is said to have the best cappuccino and espresso in all of the Big Apple. New York, New York, that is.
True Grounds in Somerville: This premium coffee is paired with some slammin' eggs, so get yourself to Ball Square in Massachusetts, and fast.
Alterra Coffee Roasters in Milwaukee: This Wisconsin roaster is the best in the area since they will consistently serve you the strongest coffee that you can find. That's what I'm talkin' about.
Zoka Coffee Roaster and Tea House in Seattle: We all know that Seattle has had some great coffee come out of it, not to mention any names- ahem. But get yourself to the Greenlake area for the most perfect latte you can find. I swear!
Emerald City Press in Austin: This fine Austin coffee house on 915 N. Lamar has organic coffee and soft serve ice cream. Hello? God bless Texas!
Cafe Procope in Paris: This is the oldest cafe in Paris that opened in 1686 and became the first literary coffee house, so if you are looking for historic coffee flavors, then you must stop here!
Cafe de Jardin in Amsterdam: This is a beautiful cafe in Amsterdam that overlooks the water so that you can see all of the boats passing by as you sip your cup of joe. Stunning!
Cafe Gerbeaud in Budapest: This is one of the most historical cafes in Budapest, so be prepared to grab a cup of joe and do some great people watching!
Brother Baba Budan in Melbourne: This is an awesome Melbourne cafe that will give you the best latte that you can find in the Outback. Check out 359 Little Bourke Street when you are in the area!
The Source Espresso Bar in Sydney: This coffee shop has the best and the most cutting edge coffee wares, so get ready to hold onto your seats. Drop by 6/914 Military Road when you're in the town.
Maxfield's in San Francisco: This coffee shop treat is on 17th and Dolores in San Francisco and has the sunny atmosphere that is still full of the area's hipsters. A must try!
Dark Horse Espresso Bar in Toronto:This is a quaint little coffee house that you have to stop by to see the foam artistry made by the resident baristas! 682 Queen St E. in Toronto, Ontario.
Octavio Cafe in Sao Paulo: This is easily the best cafe in the city, and it has three large areas for smoking, non-smoking, and an outdoor patio. Breathtaking.
Common Grounds Coffee House in Denver: This great coffee house has two Denver locations and boasts a nice alternative to the bar scene. I'll drink to that!
Mr. Baguette in LA: This is said to have the best iced coffee in all of LA, so get yourself down to 400 S. Atlantic Blvd. as quick as your legs, or car, can carry you!
Espresso Royale in Boston: This is a Boston Univeristy student favorite, meaning that it's good enough to come back to again and again! Check out 736 Commonwealth Ave when you're in the Boston, Massachusetts, area.
Cafe Central in Madrid: Not only can you sip a wonderful coffee here, but this café is also known for its jazzy nightlife and quality music selection. Check out Plaza del Angel 10 when you're in Spain!
Ground Floor Cafe in Christchurch: When you are in New Zealand, please swing by this awesome café that is one of the best in the city, located next to Hagley Park at 47 Riccarton Road. Delightful!
Opening Bell Coffee in Dallas: If you like live music, fantastic coffee, and even open mic nights, then do not hesitate to make this your new haunt in Dallas! And did I say karaoke??
Java Cat in Madison: This is said to be the best coffeehouse in Madison, Wisconsin, to go for a casual first date. Ooh la la!
Brew Ha Ha! in Delaware Valley: This unique coffee chain has 12 locations within Delaware and Pennsylvania, and they even roast all of their own beans and create their own blends. Can anyone say "experts"?
The Red Cup in Oklahoma City: This funky coffee shop has a relaxed atmosphere with a variety of coffee blends, along with free wi-fi and live music. Hello! Check out 3122 N. Classen Blvd. when you're in the area.
Bad Ass Coffee in Oahu: The name allegedly comes from a donkey that used to carry coffee up and down the Hawaiian mountainsides, but either way, this coffee really does live up to its name!
Dark Horse Coffee Co. in Anchorage: They use the highest quality ingredients and are said to be the first in Anchorage to use eco-friendly cups! What's not to love?
Daily Grind in Lynchburg: The sophisticated taste of this coffee house has come straight from Seattle to Virginia. Not to be missed!
Tryst Coffee in Washington DC: This is actually a very hip coffeehouse and bar that exhibits professionally trained baristas in a Northern Italian style. Wow!
Hard Bean Coffee in Annapolis: This is a fantastic place to catch up on your reading if you are ever in Maryland, and they even serve a variety of fine coffee choices!
Coffee by Design in Portland: Just so there is no confusion, this is in Maine, not Oregon, but regardless- it is a coffee Micro Roastery that provides the best specialty coffees in the area. Hurray!
Vincent Gogh's Ear Cafe in Union: The name itself is cool enough for you to stop by if you are ever in the New Jersey area and want to have a fine coffee that people travel miles for. Brilliant!
Mad River Coffee House in Campton: This is a favorite coffee roaster in New Hampshire that always has fresh roasted coffee and even makes their own blend. Pour me a cup!
Empire Tea and Coffee in Rhode Island: This is a hot spot in Newport Rhode Island with a devoted following of independent coffee house lovers. Make sure to stop by 22 Broadway for a cup of Joe!
Capitol Grounds in Montpelier: This is a wonderful café and roastery in the Vermont area that showcases local artists, as well as live music. Make yourself at home!
Gruene Coffee Haus in New Braunfels: If you're looking for a down home Southern style coffee house, then stop by this German influenced coffee shop in Texas that has their very own coffee blends. Again, God bless Texas.
Zanzibar's in Des Moines: This coffee shop hosts a multicultural celebration of Java that you should check out if you're ever in the Iowa area. They even have a huge variety of coffee beans to choose from if you want to take any home with you! Smashing.
Moxie Java in Boise: This coffee shop was started in the heart of downtown Boise, Idaho, and they have an unreasonable amount of coffees to choose from. You have to see it to believe it!
Black Dog Coffeehouse in Kansas City: This hip Kansas coffeehouse specializes in fair trade coffee and even makes their own daily brews. Creative!
Cafe Brioso in Colombus: This is a fantastic coffee house in Columbus, Ohio, with artisan coffees that are roasted in-store. Did someone say fresh??
Jim and Patty's Coffee in Portland: This is the best in home grown coffee in Oregon, meaning that it is organic and shade grown so that you know that it is the highest quality around!
Mud Bay Coffee Co. in Olympia: This is a local small batch coffee roaster in Washington that you would be a fool to pass up because they also use all natural ingredients and hemp milk- hello??!
City Brew Coffee in Billings: This Montana roaster boasts using the top 2% of the world's coffee beans, so you can rest assured that you are sipping the best Java around. Delightful.
Le Cafe ile St. Louis in Las Vegas: I personally wouldn't mind grabbing a quality coffee in the Paris Hotel and Casino myself, but I don't think that you will want these tasty brews to stay in Vegas after all!
Brew Nerds in Winston-Salem: Are you to a coffee lover and geek? Then this is the perfect coffee shop for you at 1620 Fox Trot Court in Winston-Salem, North Carolina- and the cups are even decorated with scientific notebook doodlings!
Red Square Coffee Shop in Saigon: This is a really hip coffee shop with a delightful decor in Vietnam, if you are ever in the area! They offer custom-made cigarettes too!
Kauppayhtio Coffee Shop in Rovaniemi: This happens to be in Finland, by the way, so if you get the chance, then check out this cool coffee shop with an old-fashioned decor that is also known for having the cheapest coffee in the city. What more can you ask for?
Cuppa Joe Coffee in Vancouver: I can only assume that you always need something to warm you up in British Columbia, and this two-story coffee house has organic and free trade coffee, as well as a beer on tap. What? Sign me up!
Merrotica's Coffee Cafe in Port Salerno: Our final entry ends with a beautiful waterfront coffee shop that allows you to sit right next to the water, sip your cup of Joe, and watch the boats go by. I can't imagine anything nicer than that...

So there you have it, boys and girls- the top 50 best coffee shops worldwide for you to enjoy any time that you are in the area. Or you may even want to take a special trip to visit one of these unique locations? A coffee lover's field trip, if you will. Regardless of where you are on planet Earth, I am happy that we all share the unique love of coffee and the beautiful bean with all that it has to offer us. If I missed an incredibly unique and awesome coffee shop in your area, please e-mail me, and I'll post that information to my blog as a follow-up. Until next time, keep your mugs full, and your hearts warm!