Cannon Coffee

Subject: Cannon Coffee

Location visited: Downtown, Hagerstown, MD
Rating: 5+ [see key]

Driving through western Maryland one early afternoon, I (shockingly) had a strong hankering for some good coffee. Knowing that most shops shut down around 2 or 3 PM these days (how I miss the days of the evening coffeehouse culture), I managed to find a promising prospect in Hagerstown at a place called Cannon.

Omega Coffee

Subject: Omega Coffee
Location visited: Chambersburg, PA
Rating: 6+ [see key]

Passing by a coffee shop around 9 or 10 AM is my favorite time to hit a shop. Long after the rush hour hordes have come in, mid-morning usually offers a chance to catch the barista at the best level of quality. It's not a guarantee, but it seems to be the time I have the best fortune.

Hohl

Subject: Hohl
Location visited: Williamsburg, VA
Rating: 6+ [see key]

I have been to Williamsburg many times, but it hasn't been until the past couple of years that it seems great coffee is starting to get established. The latest spot to meet my acquaintance is a cafe in a former house called Hohl.

The Bake Shop

Subject: The Bake Shop
Location: Williamsburg, VA
Rating: 6+ [see key]

Growing up around Philadelphia, there were always bakeries people would rave about. And as I got into good coffee, I noticed that it was rare for a good bakery to also have a good coffee set-up. But every now and then, I found a gem that made great breads or confections alongside a solid cup of coffee.

Alchemy Coffee

Subject: Alchemy Coffee
Location visited: 21st St, Philadelphia, PA
Rating: 6+ [see key]

Some days I get to be the valet for a family member. Whether it's to usher someone to a sporting event or to drop a gaggle of relatives at the ballet, I get picked because "I like Philly." Sadly, they are right. I will often take the burden of driving and parking if it means I get some time to wander around and visit coffee shops.