Saturday, November 6, 2010

Coffee, coffee, coffee (it's an expression)

Well, I'm not going to admit to slacking off on you guys. Why, you ask, would I be so bold as to not only not apologize, but present an anti-apology? Because I am always right and also because I am about to try and play it off like I was compiling research this whole time and therefore couldn't post until I had some worthwhile information to share.
For the past few weeks I have been collecting data on the very important topic of local coffee spots. Those of you in the Temple University area are likely familiar with all of the many options presented daily on the coffee front. Between the food trucks, the huts, the Anderson food strip, the SAC and other campus offerings (*cough Einstein monopoly), it is difficult to find that perfect cup without doing some serious sipping. Luckily, you have me, and here are my notes from the week:
Monday: Ali's
To be fair, Ali's has become my regular Monday/Wednesday/Friday jolt, so I may be a little bias, but I will stand by my assertion that Ali makes a good cup of coffee. He is also by far the friendliest of the coffee providers and between his smile and the $1 cup, you're morning will definitely begin on the right foot. He also knows my order and I might enjoy his usual quip of "Extra sweet for extra sweetheart," but who doesn't love a man (of any age) with an accent?

Tuesday: Tommy's food truck (located outside Tomlinson theater by Peabody Hall)
As loyal as my heart is to Ali, so far this is the best cup of coffee I've sampled. It was super strong and nutty but in that good bold way. The woman was neutral, but at least she smiled and accepted my dollar coin without comment (c'mon, SEPTA, duh).

Wednesday: Saxby's (aka my first day cheating on Ali)
All I have to say about Saxby's is OVERPRICED. Seriously, get a life.

Thursday: The Bagel Hut
Again, I may be bias here because I wrote an article about The Bagel Hut freshman year and the owner was extremely helpful and kind. However, anyone who has ever been to The Bagel Hut could tell you that the owner is extremely helpful and kind. Her sunny demeanor is a big draw for many of their loyal customers- that is, when she's serving food and not chain smoking in the back; we all have our vices. The coffee was good, but I was not entirely convinced they took my "Extra cream" request to heart. I do see a lot of people with their cups though, so clearly they are popular; perhaps too popular as the line is always ridiculously long.

Friday: The hut outside the library
This coffee came highly recommended by a fellow coffee conosiour- word for addicts who want to sound fancy- Namarata, a Subway coworker. I will say this, the coffee was good and EXTREMELY HOT. However, the service totally blew it for me. The couple who owns the stand wouldn't know a smile if it smacked them in the face. Namarata was willing to forgive them this on the basis that they are European, but I am less merciful. Every one of these and basically all of the food joints around here are owned and operated by someone foreign and it doesn't take a lot to learn, "Have a nice day." If you don't mind unfriendly people at 8 am, enjoy their brew (cautiously), but for me, their service was a total buzz kill.
I also feel that I should give 7-11 a shout out. As a poor college student, I utilize their 99 cent after noon special at least once a day. I myself enjoy being able to add the cream and sugar to my own taste. I also think they have good coffee and appreciate their location right next to Subway.
Stay tuned for more...hopefully...bah, just stay tuned!

1 comment:

  1. As an additional comment, fuck you Starbucks @ the Tech Center...but I'm still going to go to you and give you my money occasionally, please don't take this as acquiescence to your evils.

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