Thursday, March 31, 2016

Early Bird Espresso and Mercantile



Subject: Early Bird Espresso and Mercantile
Location: Frenchtown, NJ
WiFi?: yes
Rating: 6+ [see key]

Right along Route 29 above Trenton exists some of New Jersey's prettiest scenery. Growing up within a 45 minute drive, I would love romping through Washington Crossing and patronizing towns like Lambertville with their antique stores, medieval weapon shops and local bistros. The area is also one of few spots in NJ with a long-standing quality coffee presence at Rojo's Roastery, a fact that kept Route 29 a common route for me. Fortunately, the slow growth of quality coffee has finally led to another tulip flowering about 15 miles north on 29 in Frenchtown, an outfit called Early Bird.


Located in a beautiful, high-ceilinged shop on Bridge Street, Early Bird Espresso and Mercantile welcomes patrons with their gorgeous banner in its gigantic front window. Inside the shop is a soothing mix of white walls, wood surfaces and the black chalkboard of their well-drawn menu. In the back amidst the tables, the shop boasts a variety of home goods and craft food items. 


As for their coffee, they serve Counter Culture. Following a quick menu perusal, I ordered up an espresso of Hologram and a pourover of Cueva de los Llanos Colombia. The espresso, pulled short/medium with brown crema, sang of chocolate, raspberry, grape, cane sugar and romaine, proving sweet and bright. The pourover emanated a sultry, smooth brew of milk chocolate, honey, oatmeal with brown sugar, grape, candied pecan and a little bib lettuce.


If only more shops like this could open across the land! If you seek a gorgeous outing or a quick stop, definitely head to Frenchtown for a stroll through the picturesque streets and a great cup of coffee at Early Bird.



These wonderful folks made this visit possible in part. Make sure to check them out!

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