You know those people that run up to the coffee counter and know exactly what they want every time? And most of the time their order consists of a paragraph long description detailing every aspect of their drink. How do they know?
Well, a few owners of local coffee shops have agreed to share some of their trade secrets to make ordering and drinking coffee a little less mystical.
Lonnie Bostwick, owner of the Coffee Cafe, 1513 Horton Rd., Jackson, said that getting a cup of coffee at a local coffee shop is an experience unto itself, and is unique for each individual.
“It’s the good, fresh beans that make the coffee excellent,” she said.
She also demystified the espresso versus brewed coffee debate and said that espresso is just coffee for the impatient -- it is immediate, rather than waiting on potted coffee to brew.
She also said to be on the look out for capppuccino with a lot of foam on top -- it signifies a fresher bean and therefore, better taste.
“What makes my shop different is that we have so many different varieties each week,” Bostwick said. “I have 15-20 different flavors everyday, not every coffee shop can offer that.”
Dottie Branson, owner of both Gatherings in Hillsdale and Jonesville, said that the best cup of coffee has a combination of fresh, roasted beans, high quality water, proper equipment and the knowledge to run the equipment.
For those looking to make their own perfect pot of coffee, Branson said that using distilled water and making sure that you don’t use grounds past their expiration date will yield the best cup of joe.
Branson also acts as a consultant for opening coffeehouses in more than 10 states. She often reminds them to train their staff to answer questions for new customers who may not know what they want.
In her own coffee houses, she allows customers to try a sip of an unfamiliar drink and return it for a new drink.
“There are a few questions you can ask yourself to figure out what you will like,” she said. “If you take cream in potted coffee, you’ll most likely like cappaccinos and lattes.”
Also, remember that mochas are the number one seller, if you want to try something new.
If you’re still stuck on what type of coffee you want, don’t be afraid to ask the barista--the one serving the coffee. They’ll be able to help you discern whether you want sweet or bold, strong or weaker. And soon you’ll be the one strutting up to the counter showing off you’re coffee snobbery.