The Well Coffeehouse

Part of the Fill in the Coffee Map Series

Subject: The Well Coffeehouse
Location: Milton, PA
WiFi?: yes
Rating: 5+ [see key]

The concept of a church operating a coffeehouse can be a beautiful thing. Sure, sometimes churches start one up for the wrong reasons and/or they do a deplorable job in execution (picture florescent lights, a donated home espresso machine that is fed only pre-ground coffee and it's only open Sundays between services). But sometimes, a church really gets the concept of serving good coffee, not cutting corners and desiring to foster authentic community, and when done well, the result becomes a delight for everybody. 

One example that struck me as a fine example was an operation called The Well. Located in Milton, PA within the local Christ Wesleyan Church, The Well consists of a coffeehouse, indoor play land, fitness center and bookstore, aiming to be a gathering place for the entire community. What caught my ear was that they served local roaster Alabaster Coffee, and thus while passing through the region, I made my way over to grab some coffee and check the place out.

Arriving one Sunday morning, I found the church abuzz with activity. The gigantic coffeehouse exists as a central hub, with vaulted ceilings, huge windows, sharp decor and lots of seating. After taking it all in, I ordered an espresso of a single origin Brazil and a filtered infusion of a Papua New Guinea. The espresso, pulled short/medium with brown crema, smacked of chocolate, cherry, mozzarella, hibiscus, blood orange and some basil, proving sweet and a touch tart. The drip coffee also proved flavorful, with sweet notes of wheat, apple, cherry coke, buttered cracker and some mango. 

While I was only able to observe the other spaces while I visited, I was thoroughly impressed in the excellent job the church did in creating a beautiful communal space serving up delicious coffee (if I lived nearby, I would definitely be a frequent visitor). Thus, whether you're local or passing through, stop by The Well Coffeehouse for good coffee and maybe a workout, some play time and/or a book. 

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