Dirtbean

Part of the Fill in the Coffee Map Series

Subject: Dirtbean
Location: Marlinton, WV
WiFi?: yes
Rating: 4+ [see key]

Sometimes local roads are the only way to see the country. I know far too many people that cling to the interstate highway, choosing travel expediency over more scenic routes, yet it's often this misguided prioritization that leaves local gems undiscovered and unique beauty overlooked.

Firecreek Coffee Company

Part of the Fill in the Coffee Map Series

Subject: Firecreek Coffee Company
Location visited: Flagstaff, AZ
WiFi?: yes
Rating: 5+ [see key]

My first trip through Flagstaff was a whirlwind detour during my first cross-country road trip back in 2004. Sadly, my entourage had no interest in stopping and thus the city lay unexplored for 15 more years before I could return.

Comet Coffee

Part of the Fill in the Coffee Map Series

Subject: Comet Coffee
Location visited: St. Louis, MO
WiFi?: yes
Rating: 6+ [see key]

Coffee, croissants and ice cream create a trio that has few equals. Sure, many cafes can boast at least two of those things, but to forge all three in-house with well-crafted results is a sight one beholds in but a handful of establishments.

Rise 'N Grind Cafe

Part of the Fill in the Coffee Map Series

Subject: Rise 'N Grind Cafe
Location: Rising Sun, MD
WiFi?: yes
Rating: 5+ [see key]

It always amazes me how most folks don't explore their regional backyards. Whether it's ignoring local tourist sights or avoiding scenic detours, few people seem to fully drink in what their area has to offer.

Taylor Books Cafe

Part of the Fill in the Coffee Map Series

Subject: Taylor Books Cafe
Location: Charleston, WV
WiFi?: yes
Rating: 5+ [see key]

Local bookstores have largely vanished from the landscape, becoming a rare sight in most lands. Gone are the days of literary emporiums being ubiquitous with regular life, with only libraries really remaining as the final bastions of casual literary perusal. Whether it was a place to kill some time looking at new titles or a rendezvous for learning and coffee, such book havens are too few indeed.