Wednesday, December 17, 2014

West End Espresso and Tea

On this brisk December morning we visited West End Espresso and Tea, located at 670 Higuera Street in SLO.  It is in downtown San Luis, near the creek.  There is a small parking lot next to it, which is a convenient feature.  Sheila had a regular medium roast coffee which was very delicious and not the least bit bitter.  It was $1.95.  Joan had a peppermint mocha.  It had one shot of espresso, a light peppermint syrup, and mocha powder, as well as being topped by a generous portion of whipped cream.  She said, "I would order this again!  It is closest to a hot chocolate in coffee I've ever tasted.  It would be perfect for people who aren't that into coffee, but like hot chocolate."  It was $3.75.
The window seats avail themselves to the warm morning sun.  There are also tall tables, some comfy chairs, and regular tables and chairs for enjoying a conversation over coffee or tea or one of the many baked goods that this establishment offers.  There is also some outdoor seating.


 This is Joan's peppermint mocha, a definite holiday coffee indulgence.  The stove in the corner provides a warm and homey touch.
West End offers 35 varieties of loose leaf tea and 25 coffee varieties. Something for everyone!

 As in many of our local coffee places, local art is displayed on the walls.  West End, formerly known as Rudolph's, was the first coffee house established in downtown, SLO, in 1979.

Think About It:  "The unselfish effort to bring cheer to others will be the beginning of a happier life for ourselves." Helen Keller

Wednesday, December 3, 2014

Peet's Coffee and Tea

The stormy weather this morning did not stop us from our coffee crawl.  We decided to visit Peet's in downtown SLO at 1075 Court Street.  One of the great things about this coffee place is its location.  We sat inside, which we found to be cozy and warm, but on a more outdoor friendly day sitting outside is wonderful.  The people watching is supreme.  Today our friend Susan, another retired teacher, met us there.  Joan had a caramel macchiato with soy, which was $4.40.  It had a light caramel taste and was extra frothy.  Sheila had a regular black coffee, medium roast, which was $1.90.  It started with a slightly bitter taste, which soon mellowed out.  The clientele at this time of day, 9:00 A.M.ish, was varied.  Downtown employees, local characters, and retirees made up the bulk of this morning's coffee drinkers.



               The outdoor seating includes several tables with umbrellas in this Court Street setting.
 Think About It:  Joan and Sheila suggest slowing down during the holiday season and taking time to enjoy friendships over a cup of coffee.   
Disclaimer: We are NOT twins.:)