Intelligentsia Coffee Pasadena

  Finding a new shop is one of my key motivations for pursuing coffee and writing these reviews. Looking for the my favorite pour over or a barista capable of “the god shot” is of course pivitol, but so is finding the perfect space and the right people to connect with. Chains, they’re all the…

The Verve Coffee Roasters 41st

Verve and Santa Cruz can’t go together in the same sentence without the word “outstanding.” Whether this refers to their beans, drinks, facilities, or staff, Verve is one of the best coffee companies in California. There is no denying that. Their level of popularity and prestigue is seldom achieved by anyone. My individual experience and personal…

Companion Bakeshop’s 1st Year Anniversary

Although Companion Bakers and the heart of the operation, owner Erin Lampel, have been putting out the finest breads and baked goods in the Santa Cruz area for several years, Companion’s formal storefront is only one year young. In that short span of time, Erin and partner Jeremy have radically transformed the old Beckman’s facility…

An Amateur Barista’s Latte Art

I have avoided doing this on the site since its inception because I am not about self promotion. This site is about sharing my love of coffee and undying admiration for the hard working women and men in the industry doing amazing work every day. Every now and again, people have asked me to post…

The Refinery

The Refinery is an excellent shop in Santa Monica. They are a growing business that is quickly developing a solid reputation as an artisan coffee shop in the Los Angeles area. Although the Refinery has only been open for 4 months, their soft opening seems to have been fairly successful. In time, I can see them…