CC: Java Monkey

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What's a Coffee Commentary?

Subject: Java Monkey
Location visited: Decatur, GA
Free WiFi ? : yes
Rating: 3+ [see key]



In my experience in dealing with cafes named after animals, it's been hit or miss. I've had good fortune with a monkey in Ithaca but not so much luck with a cow in South Dakota. And there's no seemingly noticeable trend, as I've had great coffee with a goat in Decatur but poor coffee with a goat in Kingston.

So when I heard a few good things about a place called the Java Monkey in Decatur, I made sure to "swing in" while in Atlanta. Coming right out of the Decatur MARTA station, I was surprised to find it right outside of the station. The exterior was painted a lovely maroon shade complimented with some clever exterior decor and a fairly nice patio off to the left. Walking inside, the interior was a long coffeehouse with super cozy seating towards the front and the coffee and wine bars toward the back.

The coffee comes from Equal Exchange, an organic roaster that I have never had a good cup of coffee from. The Guatemalan served via drip (sadly) met the usual expectations with a fairly bitter and charred cup of coffee. The espresso was also not so hot, with a long pull and a heavily-oiled, harsh double shot. The tea is free leaf and while I did not have any, there was a fairly extensive wine and beer bar.

Sadly, this particular monkey was not as hopping as I had hoped but given a better coffee and stronger espresso training, this monkey could climb to the top. If you're looking for a cup of mediocre organic coffee or can't go far away from the MARTA train station, stop on by the Java Monkey.