As Starbuck's visits frequently are "add-on" activities, this blog may be so much more than just coffee and coffee shops.
Last Saturday was the beginning of a weekend that gave us all a glimpse into what we have in store for spring weather only to have winter crash right back on us this week. Don't be discouraged! Spring will come and it will be soon. Mary and I got together after losing our "lunch buddy" status due to job changes, so we went big and drove all the way to SoBro for lunchfast at Taste Cafe. The food at Taste is always delicious, and, if you're not planning on indulging elsewhere, the desserts are worth the extra calories/cost. It's hit-or-miss but Mary and I got there before noon, which allowed us to get a table without having to stand in line. It gave us an extra five or ten minutes of lively conversation and delicious coffee, of which Taste offers several self-serve brews each day. (Great for tasting something new.)
After a delicious Southwestern Wrap at Taste Cafe, Mary and I opted to swing by 56th an Illinois St. I had just discovered this Starbuck's location in December 2007, and hadn't had the chance to check it out until the previous Thursday. I liked the fact that it was more of a cute little shop than a huge corporate Starbuck's with a drive-thru. (Don't get me wrong. I like the drive-thru at times too, but for a relaxed Saturday afternoon, this was JUST RIGHT.) It also doesn't hurt that it's just a few steps away from the Flying Cupcake, and the service at this new favorite Starbuck's even seemed a touch more friendly.
Mary and I picked up a truffle and a chocolate-cream cheese cupcake and practically skipped over to Starbuck's like little kids. We were having great fun, and ready for a caffeine fix. On a friend's recommendation, I got the Americano. I wanted to try something different, but having tried the new Honey Latte two days prior, and a significantly sweet treat in hand, I was not going to compromise the impact of my beloved Flying Cupcake with a sweet beverage. I was pleased with the Americano, and wondered if it was a product of the recent change in brewing techniques, or if I would have loved the Americano all along. Either way, it was the pefect compiment to my cupcake. I remember loving Americanos when I visited Italy, but can't remember enjoying it a that much the time I got one at the Starbuck's on Mass Ave. Italy vs. Mass. Ave Starbuck's in Indianapolis....I don't even want to start...
Mary and I lost track of time, as I am in this blog, so we had to head home, but I wont soon forget the perfect afternoon, and suggest you a try it - take a good friend too:
- Taste Cafe
- The Flying Cupcake
- Starbuck's on Illinois St
