Tuesday, September 05, 2017

Common Grounds



Subject: Common Grounds
Location: Waco, TX
WiFi?: yes
Rating: 6+ [see key]

When I was a college student, I often yearned for a great coffee spot near campus where I could study, meet up with friends or catch some live music. Now in my older age, I'm not so much looking for acoustic renditions of Everlong but I definitely still appreciate quality coffee spaces that can accommodate open mic nights.


One fine example of such an establishment is a behemoth coffee establishment in Waco, Texas called Common Grounds. Located right next to Baylor University, this coffeehouse is part old house and part amphitheater; inside they transformed the downstairs into a fairly open floorplan full of bohemian furniture and curios that spill outside onto porches and finally out to the backyard-turned-stage where live performances seem to fit perfectly.


Fully impressed with their formidable digs, I made my way to the bar to try out the coffee. Using a variety of roasters, I ordered the 8th Street Blend from Pinewood Roasters for my espresso, and a pourover of a Guatemalan from Onyx. The espresso, pulled medium with brown crema, sang of lemon, chocolate, sherbet, brazil nuts, corn chip and light olive oil, making for a sweet, slightly savory and lightly piquant infusion. The pourover made for liquid dessert, smacking of honey, nougat, whipped cream, graham cracker and cherry in a light/medium body.


After finishing my drinks, I sat for a bit before heading off into the Texas night (sadly there were no shows that night). If you're anywhere near Waco, definitely check out Common Grounds.


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

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