Like most people, I have to have my coffee in the morning to begin functioning properly. I'm definitely more coherent and friendlier than my husband is in the morning without coffee though. I'm happy to get a grunt which serves as his "good morning - where's the coffee?" I knew as soon as we started dating years ago that coffee was going to be a staple to have a successful relationship (and not to ask any important questions before 9:30 am). Both James and I sleep very late on Sunday mornings because we usually both work very late on Saturday nights. Since I'm more of the morning person, it has become ritual that I wake up a few minutes before him and go to Starbucks on 7th and Peachtree -- the only place I would ever think of walking into with bed-head hair, no makeup, and yesterday's pair of jeans. Why don't I just make coffee at home you ask -- one reason is because I just don't like how I make coffee. It never tastes right; and two, because I've fallen in love with the Americano and I have yet to purchase my own espresso machine. Both James and I have an Americano - we love it. So the purpose of this caffeinated post is to share my favorite spots to get that must needed beverage:
1. Starbucks - the easiest and most convenient for any resident or visitor. I enjoy their Americano more than their coffee. Doesn't matter if you're in Tulsa, OK or Atlanta, GA, you'll know what to expect at Starbucks. The one on 7th and Peachtree is my weekend morning destination.
2. Caribou Coffee - I never heard of Caribou until I moved to Atlanta, and they are very good. They are a chain and have many locations. I really like their coffee, and their Americano is just as good. Caribou is my supplier of caffeine during the week. There's one right below my office in Peachtree Center Downtown.
3. Octane - If you're looking for atmosphere and a place with a great eclectic soul, you should definitely try Octane on the corner of Marietta and Howell Mill. I typically only get an Americano here because they are just so darn good. They almost have a chocolately essence to them. I'm no espresso aficionado, so forgive me for butchering my description. Just know they make fantastic espresso drinks and have a very funky atmosphere. I love looking at the art from local artists on their wall...I also love looking at both the employees and clientele - most often you'll see some fantastic tattoos and hair-dos there. A little bit of Little Five Points outside of Little Five Points.
4. Java-ology - Another great place for an Americano, on the corner of Edgewood and Boulevard. I've only been here twice, but from the vibe, I can tell they are another hip place to go for a great espresso drink and some groovy atmosphere. I look forward to exploring Java-ology more.
5. Midcity Cafe - Funny enough, I've only had coffee here. Just a hop skip and a jump from where we live, on the corner of Abercrombie Pl and West Peachtree under the Midcity Lofts, this is a nice alternative to Starbucks. They have delicious coffee (they brew Lavazza which my husband and I find yummy). I go here more after work than on weekend mornings though. The have a full bar and the atmosphere is more Midtown city-chic, rather than Octane's funky vibe.
I know there are many more coffee places in Atlanta to explore to find a great Americano. Please add comments to my post to share your favorite spot. Ahhhh, the Americano. It's almost better than breathing.