Friday, November 19, 2010

CC: Water Avenue Coffee



Subject: Water Avenue Coffee
Location: Portland, OR
Free WiFi ? : yes
Rating: 6+ [see key]

While I consider myself a big outdoors person, I really savor old, industrial areas within cities, especially ones that have been revitalized to serve a residential or commercial purpose. One of my top picks is Portland's Southeast Industrial District, not just because it's a pleasant place to stroll but also because it has great coffee.

The coffeehouse I refer to is Water Avenue Coffee. A relative newcomer, having just opened their doors only months ago, their venue initially bedazzled me with their gorgeous wood counters (made from a local, reclaimed tree), huge neon sign (inside) and open space.

With quite the qualified staff, I was practically chomping at the bit to try out their coffee. That particular day Water Ave had their El Salvador as both their espresso and french pressed coffee, and even though I'm a fan of variety in my coffee selection, I'm also pretty flexible, so I went with the flow.

The espresso, pulled short with a nice crema, held tart apple, a smattering of cocoa, a little lemon candy, some whiskey and a bit of peach (very good). The french press had similar sweetness, but more akin to honey as well as some earthy notes, flecks of wheat grass and glazed walnuts. I would agree with their claim on the website that denotes that this coffee has a "versatile profile." The tea was not noted.

Yet another gem in Portland's coffee crown. Make Water Avenue a stop on your route.

1 comment:

Kopi Luwak said...

I've read some reviews about Water Avenue Coffee and it was all delightfully positive! Heard their process of roasting coffee beans got a 100 rate in their week's health inspection. That is totally clean! Can't wait to visit the place someday.