Walnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Phone: (215) 222-1400
Everything was just sweet-auto WC, not much body to the beat taste. Just too sweet, in house cup. 3.3 beans
CC46
Friday, November 21, 2008
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
La Colombe
Neighborhoods: Rittenhouse Square, Penn Center
130 S 19th St
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 563-0860
http://www.lacolombe.com/
CC45
130 S 19th St
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 563-0860
http://www.lacolombe.com/
CC45
Cafe Twenty-Two
236 S 22nd St
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 772-1911
Used ....beans and good milk taste, but chocolate quality and flavor strength was a little lacking. Overall not bad. 3.9 beans
CC44
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 772-1911
Used ....beans and good milk taste, but chocolate quality and flavor strength was a little lacking. Overall not bad. 3.9 beans
CC44
Tuscany Cafe
222 W Rittenhouse Sq # 1
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 772-0605
Hershey's syrup?! I was highly disappointed. Very average tasting, could have used more milk and better chocolate. served in house cup. asked about whipped cream. 3.0 beans
CC43
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 772-0605
Hershey's syrup?! I was highly disappointed. Very average tasting, could have used more milk and better chocolate. served in house cup. asked about whipped cream. 3.0 beans
CC43
Caffeine's
1338 Memorial Ave
West Springfield, MA
(413) 731-5282
The girl put chocolate powder in the milk, then frothed it. Looks nice but average taste, just average all around, at least there was no whipped cream. 2.8 beans
CC42
West Springfield, MA
(413) 731-5282
The girl put chocolate powder in the milk, then frothed it. Looks nice but average taste, just average all around, at least there was no whipped cream. 2.8 beans
CC42
Pump Station Cafe
103 E Boal Ave
Boalsburg, PA 16827
(814) 466-6202
Almost watery, hardly taste the espresso. Decent foam not much chocolate taste either. 2.5 beans
CC41
Boalsburg, PA 16827
(814) 466-6202
Almost watery, hardly taste the espresso. Decent foam not much chocolate taste either. 2.5 beans
CC41
Cool Beans Coffee and Tea Shop
141 West High Street
Bellefonte, PA 16823
(814) 355-1178
www.coolbeanscoffees.com/
Was in the in-house cup, but came with whipped cream; too sweet. 3.1 beans
CC40
Bellefonte, PA 16823
(814) 355-1178
www.coolbeanscoffees.com/
Was in the in-house cup, but came with whipped cream; too sweet. 3.1 beans
CC40
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Saints Cafe
123 W. Beaver Ave.
State College, PA 16801
(814)238-5707
http://www.statecollegecoffeeshop.com/
Not a bad drink, wasn't amazing though. Apparently the chocolate used, Hershey's or Ghirardelli depends on the budget that week, arg. In house cup. 3.6 beans
CC39
State College, PA 16801
(814)238-5707
http://www.statecollegecoffeeshop.com/
Not a bad drink, wasn't amazing though. Apparently the chocolate used, Hershey's or Ghirardelli depends on the budget that week, arg. In house cup. 3.6 beans
CC39
Common Grounds Coffee House
616-459-2999 1319 Fulton St E
Grand Rapids, MI 49503, US
(616)459-2999
http://www.commongroundgr.com/index.html
Even at around midnight they made a very decent drink. Bean flavor was strong enough. but could have been a little better quality; asked about milk, whipped cream, and to-go. 4.2 beans
CC38
Grand Rapids, MI 49503, US
(616)459-2999
http://www.commongroundgr.com/index.html
Even at around midnight they made a very decent drink. Bean flavor was strong enough. but could have been a little better quality; asked about milk, whipped cream, and to-go. 4.2 beans
CC38
Beaner's Cafe
2500 E. Beltline SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
(616) 285-7130
(616) 285-7136 - Fax
www.beaners.com
Was in to-go cup w/ auto whipped cream. Ok taste, chocolate ok, could have been better foam. Needed stronger espresso taste. 3.4 beans
CC37
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
(616) 285-7130
(616) 285-7136 - Fax
www.beaners.com
Was in to-go cup w/ auto whipped cream. Ok taste, chocolate ok, could have been better foam. Needed stronger espresso taste. 3.4 beans
CC37
Pekara Bakery and Bistro
116 N Neil St
Champaign, IL 61820
(217) 359-4500
www.pekara-bakery.com
They used Hershey's syrup-argh...everything was artificial tasting. Added whipped cream w/ out asking. Everything about this drink screams. 2.8 beans
CC34
Champaign, IL 61820
(217) 359-4500
www.pekara-bakery.com
They used Hershey's syrup-argh...everything was artificial tasting. Added whipped cream w/ out asking. Everything about this drink screams. 2.8 beans
CC34
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
Latte Time
Coffee Hound
Aroma Cafe
Grace Cafe
Cafe Kopi
Longbranch Coffeehouse
Common Grounds Coffee House
600 E Grand ave suite #6
Carbondale, IL 62901
(618) 549-4180
A very decent all around coffee drink, decent beant taste, chocolate is ok, right milk amount, good foam. The difference between good and great?-Beans. 4 beans
CC26
Carbondale, IL 62901
(618) 549-4180
A very decent all around coffee drink, decent beant taste, chocolate is ok, right milk amount, good foam. The difference between good and great?-Beans. 4 beans
CC26
Book and Bean
131 Saint Joseph Ave
Brewton, AL 36426
(251) 867-7002
Served in auto TG cup, chocolate was there, was ok but not quality espresso, lame foam. 2.9 beans.
CC25
Brewton, AL 36426
(251) 867-7002
Served in auto TG cup, chocolate was there, was ok but not quality espresso, lame foam. 2.9 beans.
CC25
The Coffe Bean
Dr. Java
Satori Coffee House
Carpe Diem and Tea Company
Java House
327 Memphis Junction Rd
Bowling Green, KY 42101
(270) 846-4723
Better than expected; good chocolate and milk, firm been taste but they added whipped cream masked! 3.9 beans
CC19
Bowling Green, KY 42101
(270) 846-4723
Better than expected; good chocolate and milk, firm been taste but they added whipped cream masked! 3.9 beans
CC19
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Spencer's Coffee House
915 College St
Bowling Green, KY 42101
(270) 393-7060
It was a spitting image of Starbucks, the texture, the taste. But they did offer a dine in cup. 3.8 beans
CC18
Bowling Green, KY 42101
(270) 393-7060
It was a spitting image of Starbucks, the texture, the taste. But they did offer a dine in cup. 3.8 beans
CC18
Cornerstone Coffee House
200 S 4th St
Murray, KY 42071
(270) 759-5648
Chocolate was...but bean flavor was not there; it was served in a "to go" cup. 2.8 beans
CC17
Murray, KY 42071
(270) 759-5648
Chocolate was...but bean flavor was not there; it was served in a "to go" cup. 2.8 beans
CC17
Joshua Cup Coffee LLC
1090 Washington Ave # 114
Macon, GA 31201
(478) 745-9099
Very average tasting drink, milk was predominant, did ask about whipped cream-couldhave used more chocolate taste and higher quality coffee taste. 3.1 beans
CC16
Macon, GA 31201
(478) 745-9099
Very average tasting drink, milk was predominant, did ask about whipped cream-couldhave used more chocolate taste and higher quality coffee taste. 3.1 beans
CC16
Downtown Grind
418 S Gay St # 101
Knoxville, TN 37902
(865) 524-4747
They used Ghiradelli Chocolate; very weak coffee taste, automatically used skim milk. 3.4
CC15
Knoxville, TN 37902
(865) 524-4747
They used Ghiradelli Chocolate; very weak coffee taste, automatically used skim milk. 3.4
CC15
Madagascar Coffee Co.
1 Sheridan Sq
Kingsport, TN 37660
(423) 245-4003
Ok texture of drink, did ask about whipped cream; chocolate too dominant, not enough coffee taste. 3.6 beans
CC14
Kingsport, TN 37660
(423) 245-4003
Ok texture of drink, did ask about whipped cream; chocolate too dominant, not enough coffee taste. 3.6 beans
CC14
PJ's Coffe and Tea Co.
28588 Us Hwy 98
Daphne, AL 36526
(251) 625-1236
Was there coffee or chocolate in the drink?? All I tasted was hot milk w/ a mild coffee flavor, ewww 2.0
CC13
Daphne, AL 36526
(251) 625-1236
Was there coffee or chocolate in the drink?? All I tasted was hot milk w/ a mild coffee flavor, ewww 2.0
CC13
The Coffee Loft
503 N Section St
Fairhope, AL 36532
(251) 929-2299
Bean flavor ok, but milk heated and frothed w/ chocolate in it! Too strong of chocolate flavor; a little too thick. 2.5 beans
CC12
Fairhope, AL 36532
(251) 929-2299
Bean flavor ok, but milk heated and frothed w/ chocolate in it! Too strong of chocolate flavor; a little too thick. 2.5 beans
CC12
Cafe Gourmet
138 Sherlake Ln
Knoxville, TN 37922
(865) 531-8022
Overall lack luster drink, they did use Giradelli dark chocolate but you couldn't taste it. Used whole milk ok, beans ok. 3.0 beans
CC11
Knoxville, TN 37922
(865) 531-8022
Overall lack luster drink, they did use Giradelli dark chocolate but you couldn't taste it. Used whole milk ok, beans ok. 3.0 beans
CC11
Old City Java
Cafe Amore
103B N Bancroft St
Fairhope, AL 36532
251-928-2719
Pleasantly surprised. Very decent bean taste, and chocolate too, good milk mixture and taste, smooth, asked about type of milk and whipped creams. 4.3 beans
CC9
Fairhope, AL 36532
251-928-2719
Pleasantly surprised. Very decent bean taste, and chocolate too, good milk mixture and taste, smooth, asked about type of milk and whipped creams. 4.3 beans
CC9
Bay Coffee Co.
1905 Main St
Daphne, AL 36526
(251) 621-1898
Everything about this drink was average. average beans, average coffee, but, they do ask about whipped cream. 3.2 beans
CC8
Daphne, AL 36526
(251) 621-1898
Everything about this drink was average. average beans, average coffee, but, they do ask about whipped cream. 3.2 beans
CC8
Starbucks
Starbucks Coffee
1703 W Tennessee St
Tallahassee, FL 32304-3436
(850) 425-2641
*There are several Starbucks in the Tallahasse area.
Whipped cream was automatically added-hence it was too sweet, chocolate was ok. Initial coffee taste was decent but quickly wore off. Milk taste ok; there was option of soy. 3.7beans
CC7
1703 W Tennessee St
Tallahassee, FL 32304-3436
(850) 425-2641
*There are several Starbucks in the Tallahasse area.
Whipped cream was automatically added-hence it was too sweet, chocolate was ok. Initial coffee taste was decent but quickly wore off. Milk taste ok; there was option of soy. 3.7beans
CC7
Black Dog Cafe
229 Lake Ella Dr
Tallahassee, FL 32303
(850) 224-2518
Decent drinks, average coffee taste, milk chocolate-nothing special, not totally frothed=no foam. But-asked for type of milk and whipped cream. 3.5 beans
CC6
Tallahassee, FL 32303
(850) 224-2518
Decent drinks, average coffee taste, milk chocolate-nothing special, not totally frothed=no foam. But-asked for type of milk and whipped cream. 3.5 beans
CC6
Monday, September 29, 2008
Cool Grindz Coffee
115 E. Park Ave
Tallahassee, FL
(850) 205-0293
Whipped cream was an option and espresso could have been a little much stronger, ok milk flavor; too much chocolate and foam 4.1 beans
CC5
Tallahassee, FL
(850) 205-0293
Whipped cream was an option and espresso could have been a little much stronger, ok milk flavor; too much chocolate and foam 4.1 beans
CC5
Beans-N-Screens
8700 Emerald Drive
Emerald Isle, NC
(252) 354-4336
Coffee and chocolate are rather average tasting. Foam was ok, but the beans taste over-roasted perhaps? 3.0 beans
CC4
Emerald Isle, NC
(252) 354-4336
Coffee and chocolate are rather average tasting. Foam was ok, but the beans taste over-roasted perhaps? 3.0 beans
CC4
Church Street Coffee and Deli
105 W Church St
Swansboro, NC 28584
(910) 326-7572
Mocha was too sweet, but good quality chocolate, could've used stonger coffee taste; whipped cream was automatically added Illy beans w/ Giradelli chocolate. 4.2
CC3
Swansboro, NC 28584
(910) 326-7572
Mocha was too sweet, but good quality chocolate, could've used stonger coffee taste; whipped cream was automatically added Illy beans w/ Giradelli chocolate. 4.2
CC3
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Coffee is catching on.......
PLEASE NOTE: I have over 450 mocha latte reviews to post on here but currently have only gotten around to about 120. Please be patient and I will do my best to post all of my findings ASAP. Thanks
Guide: ATGC= Automatic To Go Cup
IHC= In House Cup
w/c= whipped cream
w/= with
bean= coffee/espresso
Alabama
Dothan
Mobile
Montgomery
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
Jonesboro, AR
Classic Cup Coffee House
The Edge Coffee House
Caffe Buono
Coffee Bistro
Coffee Gallery & Dessert Bar
The Daily Grind (Moeloe's)
Shadrach's Coffee and Roastery
Hardwired Cafe
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Newark
District of Columbia D.C.
Florida
Cape Coral
Daytona Beach
Hot Spot Coffee Shoppe
Ft. Myers
Lakeland
Orlando
Sanibel Island
Sarasota
Big E's Coffee & Sweets
Tallahasse
West Palm Beach
Barnie's Coffee and Tea
Georgia
Albany
Augusta
The Daily Grind
Inner Bean
Evans
Fotenotes Cafe
Columbus
Macon
Savannah
Gallery Espresso
Coffee Cake Cafe
Metro Coffee House
Sentient Bean
Soho South Cafe
Savannah Coffee Roasters
B. Matthews Eatery and Bakery
Cafe Gelatohhh
Cafe Ambrosia
Christy's Espresso Delights
Tybee Island
Mermaids Cive coffee and cafe
Hawaii
Idaho
Nampa
Old Town Cafe
Illinois
Bloomington
Champaign
Indiana
Clarksville
Buffalo Madison
Evansville
Wired Coffeehouse
Pennylane Coffeehouse
Coffee Cottage & Cafe
Jeffersonville
DDL Shotz Coffee Bar
New Albany
Coffee Crossing
Iowa
Cedar Rapids
Des Moins
Kansas
Topeka
Kentucky
Bowling Green
Luoisville
Buzz Worx
Coffee Treat
Days Espresso and Coffee Bar
Borders Books and Music
Highland Coffee Company
Heine Bros. Coffee
Old Luoisville Coffeehouse
Murray
Pikeville
Out to Lunch Coffeehouse
Louisiana
Bossier City
Moxie Java
Cajun Coffee House
Houma
Monroe
Mylo's Coffee House
The Coffee Bean
New Orleans
Café Du Monde
Café Au Lait
Café Beignet
Ruston
The Frothy Monkey II
Crescent City Coffee
Shreveport
Figlio's Coffee House
Columbia Café
Thibodaux
Maine
Portland
Java Net Cafe
Zarra's Monumental Coffeehouse
Coffee By Design
Windham
Maine Bean Bakehouse and Deli
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Fowlerville
Grand Rapids
Minnesota
Mississippi
Tupelo
Missouri
Montana
Billings
City Brew
Mountain Mudd Coffee Stand
Bozeman
Bittersweet Bistro
Homepage Internet Cafe
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
Binghamton
LaTazza
Java Joe's
Buffalo
LaVazza/McDonalds rest stop stand
Corning
Soul Full Cup Coffeehouse
Horseheads
Louis on Hanover Square
LeCreme Coffee and Tea
Laka Placid
Cuppa Jo
Coff-e-bean Internet Cafe
New Leaf Coffeehouse
Syracuse
Coffee Pavilion
Freedom of Espresso
North Carolina
Asheville
Carrboro
Padgett Station Coffee & Tea
Open Eye
Chapel Hill
Cafe Driade
Charlotte
SK Net cafe
Dillworth Coffee (Tyron Ave.)
Therapy Cafe
Lava Java
Jackson's Java
The Smelly Cat
Fayetteville
Raleigh
Morning Times
North Dakota
Ohio
Canton
Carpe Diem Coffee
Muggwigz
Elmore
Red White and Brew
Sylvania
Nautica Coffee
Toledo
Downtown Latte
Navy Bean Co.
Oklahoma
Oregon
Guide: ATGC= Automatic To Go Cup
IHC= In House Cup
w/c= whipped cream
w/= with
bean= coffee/espresso
Alabama
Dothan
Mobile
Montgomery
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
Jonesboro, AR
Classic Cup Coffee House
The Edge Coffee House
Caffe Buono
Coffee Bistro
Coffee Gallery & Dessert Bar
The Daily Grind (Moeloe's)
Shadrach's Coffee and Roastery
Hardwired Cafe
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Newark
District of Columbia D.C.
Florida
Cape Coral
Daytona Beach
Hot Spot Coffee Shoppe
Ft. Myers
Lakeland
Orlando
Sanibel Island
Sarasota
Big E's Coffee & Sweets
Tallahasse
West Palm Beach
Barnie's Coffee and Tea
Georgia
Albany
Augusta
The Daily Grind
Inner Bean
Evans
Fotenotes Cafe
Columbus
Macon
Savannah
Gallery Espresso
Coffee Cake Cafe
Metro Coffee House
Sentient Bean
Soho South Cafe
Savannah Coffee Roasters
B. Matthews Eatery and Bakery
Cafe Gelatohhh
Cafe Ambrosia
Christy's Espresso Delights
Tybee Island
Mermaids Cive coffee and cafe
Hawaii
Idaho
Nampa
Old Town Cafe
Illinois
Bloomington
Champaign
Indiana
Clarksville
Buffalo Madison
Evansville
Wired Coffeehouse
Pennylane Coffeehouse
Coffee Cottage & Cafe
Jeffersonville
DDL Shotz Coffee Bar
New Albany
Coffee Crossing
Iowa
Cedar Rapids
Des Moins
Kansas
Topeka
Kentucky
Bowling Green
Luoisville
Buzz Worx
Coffee Treat
Days Espresso and Coffee Bar
Borders Books and Music
Highland Coffee Company
Heine Bros. Coffee
Old Luoisville Coffeehouse
Murray
Pikeville
Out to Lunch Coffeehouse
Louisiana
Bossier City
Moxie Java
Cajun Coffee House
Houma
Monroe
Mylo's Coffee House
The Coffee Bean
New Orleans
Café Du Monde
Café Au Lait
Café Beignet
Ruston
The Frothy Monkey II
Crescent City Coffee
Shreveport
Figlio's Coffee House
Columbia Café
Thibodaux
Maine
Portland
Java Net Cafe
Zarra's Monumental Coffeehouse
Coffee By Design
Windham
Maine Bean Bakehouse and Deli
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Fowlerville
Grand Rapids
Minnesota
Mississippi
Tupelo
Missouri
Montana
Billings
City Brew
Mountain Mudd Coffee Stand
Bozeman
Bittersweet Bistro
Homepage Internet Cafe
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
Binghamton
LaTazza
Java Joe's
Buffalo
LaVazza/McDonalds rest stop stand
Corning
Soul Full Cup Coffeehouse
Horseheads
Louis on Hanover Square
LeCreme Coffee and Tea
Laka Placid
Cuppa Jo
Coff-e-bean Internet Cafe
New Leaf Coffeehouse
Syracuse
Coffee Pavilion
Freedom of Espresso
North Carolina
Asheville
Carrboro
Padgett Station Coffee & Tea
Open Eye
Chapel Hill
Cafe Driade
Charlotte
SK Net cafe
Dillworth Coffee (Tyron Ave.)
Therapy Cafe
Lava Java
Jackson's Java
The Smelly Cat
Fayetteville
Raleigh
Morning Times
North Dakota
Ohio
Canton
Carpe Diem Coffee
Muggwigz
Elmore
Red White and Brew
Sylvania
Nautica Coffee
Toledo
Downtown Latte
Navy Bean Co.
Oklahoma
Tulsa
Broken Arrow
Durant
Oregon
Portland
Bend
Pennsylvania
Cleona
Mad Hatter
Mad Hater
Edinboro
Sheetz Gas Station
Erie
Floral Gallery
Brick House Coffee
Lebanon
Cumberland Coffee and Tea
Higher Grounds Coffee Bar
Special Perks
Mechanicsburg
Juice and Java Cafe
Reading
City Espresso
Womelsdorf
Crave Coffee and Tea
Puerto Rico P.R.
San Juan
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Anderson
Ecity Java
Florence
Hilton Head Island
Signe's Heavenbound Cafe and Bakery
French Bakery and Courtyard Cafe
South Dakota
Rapid City
Tennessee
Chattanooga
Fayetteville
Elk River Coffee Company
Gatlinburg
Johnson City
Pennsylvania
Cleona
Mad Hatter
Mad Hater
Edinboro
Sheetz Gas Station
Erie
Floral Gallery
Brick House Coffee
Lebanon
Cumberland Coffee and Tea
Higher Grounds Coffee Bar
Special Perks
Mechanicsburg
Juice and Java Cafe
Reading
City Espresso
Womelsdorf
Crave Coffee and Tea
Puerto Rico P.R.
San Juan
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Anderson
Ecity Java
Florence
Hilton Head Island
Signe's Heavenbound Cafe and Bakery
French Bakery and Courtyard Cafe
South Dakota
Rapid City
Tennessee
Chattanooga
Fayetteville
Elk River Coffee Company
Gatlinburg
Johnson City
Memphis
Odessa
Waco
Ft. Worth
Houston
McAllen
El Paso
Wichita Falls
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Charlottesville
Milano Espresso
La Taza
Java Java
Williamsburg
Coffee Beanery
Steeps Tea Tavern Elixer Bar
Roanoke
Mill Mountain Coffee and Tea
Mojo Cafe
Washington
Seattle, WA
Original Starbucks
Vivace
Spokane, WA
Bittersweet Bistro
Thomas Hammer Coffee Co.
West Virginia
Wheeling
Wheeling Coffee and Spice Co.
Centre Cup Coffee
Beans 2 Brew
Second Cup Cafe
Island Hurricane
Wheeling Coffee Shop
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Canada
Calgary
Edmonton, AB
Tim Hortons
Sugar Bowl
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Charlottesville
Milano Espresso
La Taza
Java Java
Williamsburg
Coffee Beanery
Steeps Tea Tavern Elixer Bar
Roanoke
Mill Mountain Coffee and Tea
Mojo Cafe
Washington
Seattle, WA
Original Starbucks
Vivace
Spokane, WA
Bittersweet Bistro
Thomas Hammer Coffee Co.
West Virginia
Wheeling
Wheeling Coffee and Spice Co.
Centre Cup Coffee
Beans 2 Brew
Second Cup Cafe
Island Hurricane
Wheeling Coffee Shop
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Canada
Calgary
Edmonton, AB
Tim Hortons
Sugar Bowl
Monday, May 12, 2008
Why a Mocha Latte?
Of all the edible things that come from nature.....coffee and chocolate have to be at the top of my list. Each enjoyed on their own are grounds for creating a special occasion, but combine them and then add a little bit of perfectly frothed milk in all its natural creamy sweetness and one truly has a little taste of something straight from the heavens.
OK, so where does a Mocha Latte come into the picture as my measuring stick for a cafe? The way I see it, there are several crucial factors that go into making a banging Mocha Latte:
1) attention to detail (preparation- see #3, serving cup: e.g cup material/warmed/shape of cup, ingredients-see #2, asking on whipped cream, presentation)
2) quality of ingredients (fresh, best available, or even better it's made in-house)
3) skilled (i.e. properly trained) and competent baristi
4) cleanliness (tools, techniques, cafe, baristas)
5) quality of tools (tamper, grinder, espresso machine, pitcher)
Even though I'm talking about a specific drink I believe that everything it takes to make a truly special Mocha Latte carries over into the rest of the cafe. And in over the 420 Mocha Lattes at individual cafes that I've visited thus far this has been proved to me over and over again. Why not a double espresso you ask? good question. To pull a "god shot" does take various degrees of the 5 criteria I mentioned before. But, looking at my own experience as an RV barista (aka home barista) I can pull a pretty decent shot with a good fresh espresso blend but I have some way to go before I can get my milk right and even further before I feel qualified in my barista background to do justice to an espresso drink by adding chocolate to it. Thus, an amazing Mocha Latte that leaves a lasting impression is truly something special....something that is a culmination of everything a cafe and its barista can offer and most certainly something worth seeking out. Thus, my quest continues......
OK, so where does a Mocha Latte come into the picture as my measuring stick for a cafe? The way I see it, there are several crucial factors that go into making a banging Mocha Latte:
1) attention to detail (preparation- see #3, serving cup: e.g cup material/warmed/shape of cup, ingredients-see #2, asking on whipped cream, presentation)
2) quality of ingredients (fresh, best available, or even better it's made in-house)
3) skilled (i.e. properly trained) and competent baristi
4) cleanliness (tools, techniques, cafe, baristas)
5) quality of tools (tamper, grinder, espresso machine, pitcher)
Even though I'm talking about a specific drink I believe that everything it takes to make a truly special Mocha Latte carries over into the rest of the cafe. And in over the 420 Mocha Lattes at individual cafes that I've visited thus far this has been proved to me over and over again. Why not a double espresso you ask? good question. To pull a "god shot" does take various degrees of the 5 criteria I mentioned before. But, looking at my own experience as an RV barista (aka home barista) I can pull a pretty decent shot with a good fresh espresso blend but I have some way to go before I can get my milk right and even further before I feel qualified in my barista background to do justice to an espresso drink by adding chocolate to it. Thus, an amazing Mocha Latte that leaves a lasting impression is truly something special....something that is a culmination of everything a cafe and its barista can offer and most certainly something worth seeking out. Thus, my quest continues......
Friday, February 15, 2008
Saint's Cafe
123 W Beaver Ave
State College, PA 16801
(814) 238-5707
www.statecollegecoffeeshop.com
Not a bad drink, wasn't amazing though. Apparently they chocolate use Hershey's or Ghiradelli's, I was told it depends on the budget that week. Used Intelligentsia beans, serve IHC. 3.6 beans
CC39
State College, PA 16801
(814) 238-5707
www.statecollegecoffeeshop.com
Not a bad drink, wasn't amazing though. Apparently they chocolate use Hershey's or Ghiradelli's, I was told it depends on the budget that week. Used Intelligentsia beans, serve IHC. 3.6 beans
CC39
Beaner's Coffee
2500 E. Beltline SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
(616) 285-7130
www.beaners.com
Was in ATGC with auto w/c. Ok taste, ok chocolate, could have been better foam. Needed stronger espresso taste. 3.4 beans
CC37
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
(616) 285-7130
www.beaners.com
Was in ATGC with auto w/c. Ok taste, ok chocolate, could have been better foam. Needed stronger espresso taste. 3.4 beans
CC37
Latte Time
706 S Main St
Normal, IL 61761
(309) 452-3700
www.lattetimecoffee.com
Nothing to get excited about; espresso was present but not high quality bean taste; IHC, weak foam. Chocolate could have been stronger. 3.1 beans
CC36
Normal, IL 61761
(309) 452-3700
www.lattetimecoffee.com
Nothing to get excited about; espresso was present but not high quality bean taste; IHC, weak foam. Chocolate could have been stronger. 3.1 beans
CC36
Coffeehound
407 N Main St
Bloomington, IL 61701
(309) 827-7575
www.coffeehound.net
One of the best mochas I've ever tasted. Excellent espresso (Intelligentsia Chicago); Perfect foam + latte art, asked about w/c; perfect amount of chocolate and taste (Italia d'oro). Amazing, 4.8 beans
CC35
Bloomington, IL 61701
(309) 827-7575
www.coffeehound.net
One of the best mochas I've ever tasted. Excellent espresso (Intelligentsia Chicago); Perfect foam + latte art, asked about w/c; perfect amount of chocolate and taste (Italia d'oro). Amazing, 4.8 beans
CC35
Pekara Bakery & Bistro
116 N Neil St
Champaign, IL 61820
(217) 359-4500
They used Hershey's syrup...argh; Everything was artificial tasting. Added auto w/c, Everything about this drink screams mediocrity. 2.8 beans
CC34
Champaign, IL 61820
(217) 359-4500
They used Hershey's syrup...argh; Everything was artificial tasting. Added auto w/c, Everything about this drink screams mediocrity. 2.8 beans
CC34
Aroma Cafe
118 N Neil St
Champaign, IL 61820
(217) 356-3200
www.aroma-cafe.com
Too sweet; ok milk and espresso but just too sweet. They did ask about milk type and w/c; ok foam. 3.8 beans
CC33
Champaign, IL 61820
(217) 356-3200
www.aroma-cafe.com
Too sweet; ok milk and espresso but just too sweet. They did ask about milk type and w/c; ok foam. 3.8 beans
CC33
Grace Cafe
818 Broadway St
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701
(573) 334-2448
www.capegracecafe.com
Very nice drink! Beautiful foam, nice bean taste and good milk. There could have been a tad bit more of espresso taste, but nice texture, although it was served in ATGC. 4.4 beans
CC32
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701
(573) 334-2448
www.capegracecafe.com
Very nice drink! Beautiful foam, nice bean taste and good milk. There could have been a tad bit more of espresso taste, but nice texture, although it was served in ATGC. 4.4 beans
CC32
Cafe Kopi
109 N Walnut St
Champaign, IL 61820
(217) 359-4266
www.cafekopi.com
Asked about cup type and w/c. Was a little stong on the espresso, but decent taste, not enough milk or foam though. 4.0 beans
CC31
Champaign, IL 61820
(217) 359-4266
www.cafekopi.com
Asked about cup type and w/c. Was a little stong on the espresso, but decent taste, not enough milk or foam though. 4.0 beans
CC31
Yellowmoon Cafe
110 N Front St
Cobden, IL 62920
(618) 893-2394
www.yellowmooncafe.com
Didin't expect much here, used Hershey's syrup, served in ATGC, hardly any espresso taste, milk and foam ok. 3.0 beans
CC30
Cobden, IL 62920
(618) 893-2394
www.yellowmooncafe.com
Didin't expect much here, used Hershey's syrup, served in ATGC, hardly any espresso taste, milk and foam ok. 3.0 beans
CC30
Longbranch Coffeehouse
100 E Jackson St
Carbondale, IL 62901
(618) 529-4488
http://www.shawneenet.net/menus/longbranch/menu.html
Decent drink, a little sweet; asked about cup type and w/c. Good chocolate, needed a little better espresso taste. 4.0 beans
CC29
Carbondale, IL 62901
(618) 529-4488
http://www.shawneenet.net/menus/longbranch/menu.html
Decent drink, a little sweet; asked about cup type and w/c. Good chocolate, needed a little better espresso taste. 4.0 beans
CC29
Old Savannah Coffee & Tea
12900 Fort Campbell Blvd
Oak Grove, KY 42262
(270) 697-0716
Expectations weren't high and I wasn't disappointed; bad chocolate flavor, low quality espresso taste. Was drinkable enough, but not preferred. 2.7 beans
CC28
Oak Grove, KY 42262
(270) 697-0716
Expectations weren't high and I wasn't disappointed; bad chocolate flavor, low quality espresso taste. Was drinkable enough, but not preferred. 2.7 beans
CC28
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Melange
Common Grounds Coffee House
600 East Grand Street
Carbondale, IL 62901
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=60899588
A very decent all around coffee drink; decent bean taste, chocolate is ok, right milk amount, good foam. The difference between good and great? 4.0 beans
CC26
Carbondale, IL 62901
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=60899588
A very decent all around coffee drink; decent bean taste, chocolate is ok, right milk amount, good foam. The difference between good and great? 4.0 beans
CC26
Book & Bean
131 Saint Joseph Ave
Brewton, AL 36426
Served in ATGC, chocolate that was ok, not quality espresso, lame foam. 2.9 beans
CC25
Brewton, AL 36426
Served in ATGC, chocolate that was ok, not quality espresso, lame foam. 2.9 beans
CC25
Coffee Bean
5472 Atlanta Hwy
Montgomery, AL 36109
(334) 272-2487
http://thecoffeebeanmontgomery.com/
Very weak taste overall. Ok milk taste, but htey used Hershey's chocolate. A weak drink overall, but not much to choose from in Montgomery. 2.9 beans
CC24
Montgomery, AL 36109
(334) 272-2487
http://thecoffeebeanmontgomery.com/
Very weak taste overall. Ok milk taste, but htey used Hershey's chocolate. A weak drink overall, but not much to choose from in Montgomery. 2.9 beans
CC24
Cafe Louisa
1036 E Fairview Ave
Montgomery, AL 36106
(334) 264-4241
http://www.cafelouisa.com/
Was delighted by this mocha, served IHC, better than average tight foam. Pretty good bean flavor, ok chocolate. I'd choose it over Starbucks. 3.9 beans
CC23
Montgomery, AL 36106
(334) 264-4241
http://www.cafelouisa.com/
Was delighted by this mocha, served IHC, better than average tight foam. Pretty good bean flavor, ok chocolate. I'd choose it over Starbucks. 3.9 beans
CC23
Dr. Java Coffee Co.
5821 Old Shell Rd # G
Mobile, AL 36608
(251) 340-8484
http://www.drjavacoffee.com/
Very tasty, bean taste was not present enough, a little too much of the milk flavor, not enough chocolate. Overall, a decent drink. 4.1 beans
CC22
Mobile, AL 36608
(251) 340-8484
http://www.drjavacoffee.com/
Very tasty, bean taste was not present enough, a little too much of the milk flavor, not enough chocolate. Overall, a decent drink. 4.1 beans
CC22
Satori Coffeehouse
5460 Old Shell Rd
Mobile, AL 36608
(251) 344-4575
www.satoricoffeehouse.com
Too Chocolatey, hardly any bean taste; milk amount- ok. Not overly impressive. 3.3 beans
CC21
Mobile, AL 36608
(251) 344-4575
www.satoricoffeehouse.com
Too Chocolatey, hardly any bean taste; milk amount- ok. Not overly impressive. 3.3 beans
CC21
Carpe Diem
4072 Old Shell Rd
Mobile, AL 36608
(251) 304-0448
http://www.springhillcoffeeroasters.com/
One of the top in the USA at the time of this review. In house roasted beans make for top notch espresso flavor. Near perfect foam and the right amount of milk make for a top notch mocha; Served ATGC. 4.8 beans
CC20
Mobile, AL 36608
(251) 304-0448
http://www.springhillcoffeeroasters.com/
One of the top in the USA at the time of this review. In house roasted beans make for top notch espresso flavor. Near perfect foam and the right amount of milk make for a top notch mocha; Served ATGC. 4.8 beans
CC20
Java house
308 E Main St
Bowling Green, KY 42101
(270) 846-4723
Better than expected; good chocolate and milk; fair bean taste but they added auto w/c. 3.9 beans
CC19
Bowling Green, KY 42101
(270) 846-4723
Better than expected; good chocolate and milk; fair bean taste but they added auto w/c. 3.9 beans
CC19
Spencer's Coffeehouse
915 College St
Bowling Green, KY 42101
(270) 393-7060
http://www.myspace.com/915college
It was a spitting image of Starbucks; the texture, the taste. But they did offer an IHC.. 3.8 beans
CC18
Bowling Green, KY 42101
(270) 393-7060
http://www.myspace.com/915college
It was a spitting image of Starbucks; the texture, the taste. But they did offer an IHC.. 3.8 beans
CC18
Cornerstone Coffeehouse
200 S 4th St
Murray, KY 42071
(270) 759-5648
Chocolate was Torani, but bean flavor was not there; it was served was served in ATGC. 2.8 beans
CC17
Murray, KY 42071
(270) 759-5648
Chocolate was Torani, but bean flavor was not there; it was served was served in ATGC. 2.8 beans
CC17
Joshua Cup Coffee
1090 Washington Ave # 114
Macon, GA 31201
(478) 745-9099
www.joshuacup.com
Very average tasting drink, milk was predominant, did ask about whipped cream. Could have used more chocolate taste and high quality coffee taste. 3.1 beans
CC16
Macon, GA 31201
(478) 745-9099
www.joshuacup.com
Very average tasting drink, milk was predominant, did ask about whipped cream. Could have used more chocolate taste and high quality coffee taste. 3.1 beans
CC16
Downtown Grind
418 S Gay St
Knoxville, TN 37902
(865) 524-4747
www.dailygrindunwind.com
They used Ghiradelli chocolate, very weak coffee taste. automatically used skim milk. 3.4 beans
CC15
Knoxville, TN 37902
(865) 524-4747
www.dailygrindunwind.com
They used Ghiradelli chocolate, very weak coffee taste. automatically used skim milk. 3.4 beans
CC15
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Madagascar Coffee Co.
1 Sheridan Sq
Kingsport, TN 37660
(423) 245-4003
http://madagascarcoffee.com/
Ok texture of drink, did ask about w/c; chocolate too dominate, not enough coffee taste. 3.6 beans
CC14
Kingsport, TN 37660
(423) 245-4003
http://madagascarcoffee.com/
Ok texture of drink, did ask about w/c; chocolate too dominate, not enough coffee taste. 3.6 beans
CC14
PJ's Coffee & Tea
503 N Section St
Fairhope, AL 36532
(251) 625-1236
http://www.pjscoffee.com
Was there coffee or chocolate in the drink? All I tasted was hot milk w/ a mild coffee flavor, ewwwww. 2.0 beans
CC13
Fairhope, AL 36532
(251) 625-1236
http://www.pjscoffee.com
Was there coffee or chocolate in the drink? All I tasted was hot milk w/ a mild coffee flavor, ewwwww. 2.0 beans
CC13
The Coffee Loft
503 N Section St
Fairhope, AL 36532
(251) 929-2299
Bean flavor ok, but milk heated and frothed w/ chocolate in it! (a no-no in latte land) Too strong of a chocolate flavor; a little too thick. 2.5 beans
CC12
Fairhope, AL 36532
(251) 929-2299
Bean flavor ok, but milk heated and frothed w/ chocolate in it! (a no-no in latte land) Too strong of a chocolate flavor; a little too thick. 2.5 beans
CC12
Cafe Gourmet
301 S Gay St
Knoxville, TN 37902
(865) 523-7263
http://www.wdvx.com/
Overall lackluster drink, they did use Ghiradelli dark chocolate, but you couldn't taste it. Used whole milk, ok texture, ok beans. 3.0 beans
CC11
Knoxville, TN 37902
(865) 523-7263
http://www.wdvx.com/
Overall lackluster drink, they did use Ghiradelli dark chocolate, but you couldn't taste it. Used whole milk, ok texture, ok beans. 3.0 beans
CC11
Old City Java
109 S Central St
Knoxville, TN 37902
(865) 523-9817
http://oldcityjava.homestead.com/
They used Hershey's syrup, argh; they did ask about milk type. No w/c, some foam; bean taste was ok; it could have used more milk and better dark chocolate; not as good as Starbucks. 3.1 beans
CC10
Knoxville, TN 37902
(865) 523-9817
http://oldcityjava.homestead.com/
They used Hershey's syrup, argh; they did ask about milk type. No w/c, some foam; bean taste was ok; it could have used more milk and better dark chocolate; not as good as Starbucks. 3.1 beans
CC10
Cafe Amore
103 N Bancroft St # B
Fairhope, AL 36532
(251) 928-2719
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=162739577
Pleasantly surprised, very decent beans taste and chocolate too. Good milk mixture and taste, smooth; asked about the type of milk and w/c. 4.3 beans
CC9
Fairhope, AL 36532
(251) 928-2719
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=162739577
Pleasantly surprised, very decent beans taste and chocolate too. Good milk mixture and taste, smooth; asked about the type of milk and w/c. 4.3 beans
CC9
Bay Coffee Co.
1905 Main St
Daphne, AL 36526
(251) 621-1898
Everything about this drink was average. Average beans, average milk, BUT they did ask about w/c. 3.2 beans
CC8
Daphne, AL 36526
(251) 621-1898
Everything about this drink was average. Average beans, average milk, BUT they did ask about w/c. 3.2 beans
CC8
Starbucks Coffee
3425 Thomasville Rd # 25
Tallahassee, FL 32309
(850) 894-7005
www.starbucks.com
W/c was automatically added- hence it was too sweet, chocolate was ok; initial coffee taste was decent but quickly wore off. Milk taste, ok; there was option of soy. 3.7 beans
CC7
Tallahassee, FL 32309
(850) 894-7005
www.starbucks.com
W/c was automatically added- hence it was too sweet, chocolate was ok; initial coffee taste was decent but quickly wore off. Milk taste, ok; there was option of soy. 3.7 beans
CC7
Black Dog Cafe
229 Lake Ella Dr
Tallahassee, FL 32303
(850) 224-2518
decent drink, average coffee taste, chocolate-nothing special; milk not totally frothed= no foam. But asked for type of milk and w/c. 3.5 beans
CC6
Tallahassee, FL 32303
(850) 224-2518
decent drink, average coffee taste, chocolate-nothing special; milk not totally frothed= no foam. But asked for type of milk and w/c. 3.5 beans
CC6
Coolgrindz Coffee Co.
1700 N Monroe St
Tallahassee, FL 32303
(850) 561-3700
www.coolgrindz.com
W/c was an option and espresso could have been a little stronger, ok milk flavor, too much chocolate and foam. 4.1 beans
CC4
Tallahassee, FL 32303
(850) 561-3700
www.coolgrindz.com
W/c was an option and espresso could have been a little stronger, ok milk flavor, too much chocolate and foam. 4.1 beans
CC4
Beans-n-Screens
8700 Emerald Drive
Emerald Isle, NC 28594
(252) 354-4336
www.beansandscreens.com
Coffee and chocolate are rather average tasting. Foam was ok, but the beans taste over-roasted perhaps? 3.0 beans
CC4
Emerald Isle, NC 28594
(252) 354-4336
www.beansandscreens.com
Coffee and chocolate are rather average tasting. Foam was ok, but the beans taste over-roasted perhaps? 3.0 beans
CC4
Church Street Coffee & Deli
105 W Church St
Swansboro, NC 28584
(910) 326-7572
Mocha was too sweet, but good quality chocolate, could've used stronger coffee taste; auto w/c; used Illy beans w/ Ghiradelli chocolate. 4.2 beans
CC3
Swansboro, NC 28584
(910) 326-7572
Mocha was too sweet, but good quality chocolate, could've used stronger coffee taste; auto w/c; used Illy beans w/ Ghiradelli chocolate. 4.2 beans
CC3
Crispers
109 N Kentucky Ave # 2
Lakeland, FL 33801
(863) 646-2102
www.crispers.com
Crispers is a chain based out of Florida and owned by Publix. They have decent soups and sandwhiches handmade in-house; BUT their baked goods and ice cream are from elsewhere. Environment is similat to Panera and some of the Crispers now offer free wi-fi.
CC2
Lakeland, FL 33801
(863) 646-2102
www.crispers.com
Crispers is a chain based out of Florida and owned by Publix. They have decent soups and sandwhiches handmade in-house; BUT their baked goods and ice cream are from elsewhere. Environment is similat to Panera and some of the Crispers now offer free wi-fi.
CC2
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