Minneapolis, MN, USA: Penny’s

So I went to Minneapolis, Minnesota–almost completely unplanned. This kind of haphazard and hopeful way of traveling needs to happen from time to time–spontaneity creates adventure, and adventure turns into fantastic stories.

The fantastic story: I went for romance, how idealistic and ridiculous of me. The happy ending: I fell in love with a city.

***

I’m a nerd at heart–history, architecture, and random non-tourist locales are my jam. I’m a different kind of tourist. I’m not one for the stereotypical per se. So my infatuation with Minneapolis is not just with the pristine view of the lakes, or the view of water everywhere, which for a desert lady was definitely a delight, nor is it with the Mall of America. The size of this mall is no doubt overwhelming, and it did have one of my favorite things in the world: an aquarium. I did partake in some of the stereotypical, I went to the Mall of America, but generally my adventures and sight-seeing is little more off the beaten path.

For instance, Minneapolis is home to the Basilica of Saint Mary–the first Roman Catholic basilica established in the United States. Architecture, art, and history are found in such places.

Not too far from the basilica is this wondrous park filled with art–apparently the Spoonbridge and Cherry pictured below is famous. I had never heard of it, but I loved it. In fact, the whole sculpture garden was beautiful.

In addition, Minneapolis is home to what is affectionately known as the most beautiful library in the state of Minnesota. Books are beautiful already, put them in place like Minnesota Central Library, and get ready to lose your breath. None of my pictures captured it well enough to post here, but trust me, it was stunning.

Now, in order to walk around the city, in order to keep up with the change of schedule, in order to adjust to a new plan, I needed some coffee. Good coffee. Great coffee.

Lucky for me, Minneapolis is home to quite a number of excellent coffee options.

Now, Penny’s–described as one of the Top 10 coffee places in the city– was my personal favorite discovery.

Penny’s, on 100 S Washington Ave, was right next to my lovely hotel–the Best Western PLUS The Normandy Inn & Suites. I took a mere 10-minute walk and I was surrounded by a stunningly beautiful venue.

The outdoor seating looked wonderful for a nice spring day. I was there during the start of a hot humid summer so I stayed inside as the humidity was killing me. I’m used to dry heat and my curly hair needed a break.

It was good decision to sit indoors–inside was magnificent. There were some high seats right next to large windows, windows for walls, facing the street. Sip coffee, eat delicious food, and enjoy the view. There’s plenty to see in an active city.

There were also some cushioned seats just outside the proper cafe, nice seats for group discussion or sitting super cozy.

Now, what kind of coffee? I ordered a latte. I was originally going to request almond milk but asked about oat milk, as I had recently heard about its growing popularity. The barista was super friendly, they not only recommended it, they also explained how it was made and how it enriched the flavor. I asked a few questions, there was no line so I felt good about asking about their food and milk options; the barista was incredibly attentive and knowledgeable. A latte with oat milk–creamy, rich, absolutely delicious. Now, I ask for oat milk everywhere it’s available.

As for food, I opted for a sweet treat: a banana nutella crepe. Now, this item hit every note. The presentation of both items was impeccable. The combination of flavors was sweet but not overpowering. It was light but filling.

Penny’s is an absolute gem in a major city. It helped me start my first day alone, a day of solo travel, on the best footing possible. I cannot wait to go back to Minneapolis, go to Penny’s and have another crepe, and have some more coffee.

If you’re in the Twin Cities, make sure to check out Penny’s–and make sure to get some oat milk in that coffee. 😉

August 5, 2018 0

Las Vegas, NV, USA: Bad Owl

I am a Hufflepuff. I thought for sure I was a Ravenclaw. Alas, out of four tests, three times I was deemed a Hufflepuff–one test did say Ravenclaw though! I may have changed a few responses on purpose, but I still think it counts. 😉

Anyway, I have accepted my status, and even embraced my designation–it is an inclusive house. I am incredibly loyal, I am a hard worker, and I do love yellow.

I am a Hufflepuff.

If this introduction made all kinds of sense to you, if you’ve read all the books, if you can name all the Weasleys, and if you know why July 31st is a sacred day–then you might just find yourself in love with Bad Owl.

***

Bad Owl is a Harry Potter themed coffee shop in southern Nevada. At the time of my writing only one location was open. I say this because as I type another location is in the works.

Bad Owl is a beautiful coffee shop with lots to offer for the Potterhead and the coffee connoisseur alike.

The decor is on-point. It’s simple, not overdone, and clever. The first 10 or so visits I kept noticing a detail I had missed in my previous visits. Potter fans will instantly notice the subtle and brilliant references.

In terms of the layout, the location I have visited in Henderson, NV has a few cushioned chairs and a small outdoor seating area. Additionally, there is one nice picnic-like table, some high seating, and some smaller tables with regular seating. The small tables are my favorite as they have Harry Potter inspired quotes on them.

I appreciate the varied seating. I can read on the cushioned seats, stand at the tall tables, sit outside, or spread out on the picnic table.

The amount of plugs is fairly decent. Wifi is free and works well. It is usually relatively quiet; I have been on weekends and weekdays, early morning and late at night, and have always found it to be an exceptional place to work or read while I drink my coffee. Although, I must say I know its popularity is growing as recently I have encountered increasingly larger crowds and some waiting. This fact warms my heart though–more people are discovering this place and now it’s time you do too!

Let’s begin with the all important factor: the coffee.

They use coffee from a local micro-roaster, Colorado River Coffee Roasters–a local and family-owned roastery. The coffee and non-caffeinated specialty drinks are superb.

For some time I was obsessed with their Pistachio Latte; my favorite styling is actually with no espresso, iced, and with whipped cream.

The Butterbrew Latte is seriously the greatest concoction in life. With this drink, if you need caffeine, you do have to add the espresso, as this drink does not automatically come with it. For this drink, I prefer hot and butterbrew whipped cream on top. 🤤

When have I had their coffee? How can I call myself a coffee reviewer and writer? Well, I tried their Almond Latte. It was good–it has actual almond bits in it too, which was super different and unexpected.

I have had their Nutella Latte and I have to say, so far, in all my coffee adventures, it was hands-down the best Nutella Latte I have ever had. It was rich, strong, and smooth. I have a sweet tooth; I have been told it’s too sweet for some, but for me and my sensibilities, it’s perfection.

And, finally, drum roll please, I have had their ultimate caffeinated creation: the Hippogryph.

This is meant for the serious drinker, as an early morning adventure, or something to be shared–in my opinion. I have only done it once, and it was early in the day, and I was by myself. It was a good day to stay hyped and caffeinated–and I hate sharing. So, I took the plunge.

It packs a caffeinated punch! Be wary if you are not a regular coffee drinker. This is a lot of caffeine.

The flavors were all strong, but not overpowering. I was the biggest fan of Unicorn Blood, which keeps you alive in the Harry Potter world but also curses you. As a cursed living lady I’m here to say if you can only visit once this is the experience. If you wanna play it safe, share and give someone else the Unicorn Blood, let them be cursed. 😉

Now, as though all of this weren’t enough, the food is literally too delicious. The waffles are beautiful and fluffy. They come with the most insanely fresh butter and whipped cream. The Avocado Everything toast tastes exactly like an everything bagel. It is beautiful to the eye, filling to the stomach, and delightful to the palette. The BLT is the best BLT I have ever encountered in my life. It is light, well-portioned, and the Japanese mayo is the ultimate flavor elevator.

It astounds me how much this place has to offer and how much it succeeds in each category.

Bad Owl could have fallen flat easily. It could have taken a theme and just leaned on the theme alone, but it didn’t! It exceeds every expectation and reality–it is truly magical. The coffee, the atmosphere, the food, and the staff make the whole experience –did I mention that in all my visits I have always been greeted and served with pure joy?

If you go anywhere next time you’re in town, go to Bad Owl. Whether you’re a Potterhead, a foodie, or a coffee lover, Bad Owl has you covered. Oh, and if you also like adult beverages, they have those too–and a Happy Hour.

What are you waiting for?

Apparate!

Get to Bad Owl now!

May 30, 2018 2

On the Merits of Coffee Chains

Dunkin’ Donuts
The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf
McDonald’s McCafe
Peet’s Coffee and Tea
Starbucks

You know them.

You know their logos.

You know their colors.

You know what to order.

I am a huge advocate of local coffee shops.

I travel and search for the best local coffee shops. It is within the family-owned business, within the truly local scene, that you get a more personalized experience. It feels like your business not only means more in these places, but it has the ability to do more. Finally, it’s in these venues that you can explore the culture of a community. Locals patron local venues.

That all being said, there is something truly wonderful about coffee chains. I will not promote these brands with the same pomp and circumstance as Mothership, or Sunrise, or Affogato, but I will say that coffee chains are valuable and beautiful in their own right.

Coffee chains have standardized decor, menus, and processes, so you are quite guaranteed the same experience, and taste. Coffee chains are more likely to have drive-thrus, so you can keep yourself moving. Coffee chains are more likely to have rewards programs, so you can feel a little bit better about spending money on your morning cup of coffee. Coffee chains are by definition, everywhere–if I’m going to work, if I’m on vacation, or if I’m at my mom’s house, I know that there’s a preferred chain nearby–I know where I can get something I definitely like to drink.

These chains, by being ubiquitous, give you options. If you love a particular drink, but dislike a barista, or the parking situation, or whatever about that particular store, you don’t have to give up that coffee drink you love–you just have to hop over to a different location to savor the same coffee in a better environment, which ultimately enhances the taste.

LRG_DSC01469 (2).JPG

There’s nothing wrong with a coffee chain.

I want to find the unknown location, the hidden gem, or the new hot-spot because it’s different and new. However, I do not condemn, or completely shun, coffee chains.

I like that there are certain places I am guaranteed to find wherever I go. That is security, and security feels good.

There’s no need to scour a menu or hope for a good recommendation or worry about the price. I know what I like, what I want, and how much it’s going to cost. That translates into even more security and comfort, even more of a good feeling.

What else is neat, arguably better, about coffee chains? Sometimes I find a new place and I think it’s only available to me for now, but then I discover it’s a chain within a specific region. That is an awesome surprise!

Places like Philz Coffee, Blue Bottle, and Dutch Bros. I originally thought were local gems have grown into, or been discovered to be, smaller chains. I don’t have to only be in *insert specific city* to patron this particularly awesome locale.

Smaller chains provide a measure of novelty as well as security–they may not be near me, but I’m traveling this summer and two of my favorite smaller chains, unavailable to me at home, are available during my travels and that’s exciting! If I want the comfort and assurance of great coffee, I already know where to go.

LRG_DSC00394 (2)

Each coffee shop, even each chain, has its perks and pitfalls. So, there is always room to explore and grow as a coffee drinker.

For instance, seasonal drinks: I love when new drinks or season-based drinks come out. It’s something to look forward to, or crave, even if it’s just temporary. It’s a way for a coffee chain to entice me to them–above all others–for just a few months.

The merits of a coffee chain are plentiful, and it’s okay to go back and make sure that our preferred drink from *insert favorite chain* in Ontario, California is just as good in Henderson, Nevada.

So I say go ahead and have your standardized, reliable cup–a cup you can get anywhere in case of an emergency. Enjoy the smaller chains, know you are special to live or be in a place where this brand has been established. When you travel, find comfort knowing that a big chain, or smaller chain, is available to you to fulfill your coffee needs. Relish in that feeling, enjoy that experience.

It is an amazingly secure and comfortable feeling created by a menu you know and trust. I can’t deny it, and that’s why coffee chains, big and small, are actually kinda magnificent.

Yes, coffee chains, you have my full love and support. Cheers to you!

Thank you to all the coffee chains for giving us all something so dependable in our hectic lives.

May 8, 2018 0

St. George, UT, USA: Affogato

One thing to know about me: I LOVE Utah.

Utah has a near monopoly on all the beautiful land in the United States . . . I think. It literally astounds me how much natural beauty is available in Utah. It’s ridiculous actually.

If you haven’t been to Utah, GO! There are so many active things to do. If you’re not active, there’s so much beautiful land to see.

Main St., St. George: Annie’s Vintage Garden

Go. Now.

***

St. George, Utah is situated about two hours away from Las Vegas. I heard from locals that it’s one of the fastest growing cities in the United States.

When I have driven to the Big 5 (Arches, Canyonlands, Zion, Capitol Reef, and Bryce Canyon National Parks), St. George was always a layover. It was nice, small, clean, and a great place to stretch my legs before I continued to a park, or continued home. Recently, I decided to investigate St. George. Surely it had more to offer . . .

***

When you’re near Zion National Park and Bryce National Park, two of the most visited and famous national parks in the United States, it’s easy for people to miss something smaller.

St. George is home to Snow Canyon State Park. It has a mere $6 entrance fee, it’s an easy 4 mile scenic drive from one end to the other, and it’s quite simply gorgeous.

Snow Canyon offers a variety of trails, as I was recovering from an injury, I stuck to paved and easier trails.

I went at the beginning of March and it was the most perfect weather imaginable. As a hidden gem, there were hardly any people too, so there was a higher level of serenity and peace to enjoy during my visit.

IMG_6587 (2) — Snow Canyon–one of my favorite pictures and views

I loved every moment of Snow Canyon. There were beautiful rocks and budding vegetation. For me, I was stunned to learn about lava tubes on one trail and then end up at a sand dune on another trail. What a mix of life!

As an experienced hiker, I had my backpack full of water and snacks to keep my energy up and keep moving from one trail to the next. Eventually though, it was time to stop. As I stated earlier, I was recovering from an injury and didn’t want the excitement to get to me, and I was starting to crave some post-nature fuel.

I drove away with a great sense of peace. I loved every moment of Snow Canyon, my love for Utah had somehow grown even more.

And, just when I thought this trip couldn’t get any better, I found Affogato.

Affogato is a local gem, just like Snow Canyon.

It’s a coffee truck, so seating is limited, just a few chairs outside. It’s a locally-owned business, a woman’s pride and dream come to life, and a relatively young business, so there’s an added element of beauty and joy in patroning Affogato. I have to say that something small, something uniquely belonging to a town, and a place that is someone’s dream makes the whole experience more worthwhile and special. You are more special and so is the coffee.

When I arrived at Affogato, I spoke with the baristas and received great direction. They had an interesting array of speciality drinks that peaked my interest, and I just couldn’t decide on my own what I should order.

The Feel Love Latte intrigued me because of one ingredient: molasses. I was further intrigued by my milk options–oatly milk?

The woman helping me with my order recommended the Feel Love drink (espresso, moscovato sugar, molasses, milk) based on a few likes and flavors I mentioned enjoying.

I ended up trying two drinks: Feel Love Moscovato Latte and an Americano. I also had a vegan brownie.

The Feel Love was a perfect choice for me. A smooth drink, flavorful but not too sweet. The Americano was good–I drank that on my way back to the hotel. The brownie I saved for dessert later. The brownie was outstanding; it was moist, rich, and I wish I had bought two.

LRG_DSC00703 — An attempt to capture the magic –that brownie is not shown in its full glory, trust me, it was beautiful and delicious!

Affogato was an outstanding experience. I loved the kind of coffee they offered, it was truly different. I appreciated the staff–they were incredibly friendly and helpful. I liked the idea of a coffee truck, when you’re surrounded by so much beauty, you need to sit outside and enjoy the view.

Go to Utah. It is incredibly beautiful, everyone I have ever encountered has been so kind, and there is truly a tremendous amount of natural beauty everywhere you go.

Start off with St. George, Snow Canyon, and Affogato–trust me, you’re gonna fall in love too.

LRG_DSC00696 (2).JPG — Their story prominently posted in front was wonderful!

March 26, 2018 1

San Francisco, CA, USA: Home Cafe

Welcome to my favorite part of the world: the Bay Area.

I have a deep love, unconditional love really, for the Bay Area, specifically San Francisco and Berkeley.

I consider the Bay Area more than home, it is heaven on earth.

One day . . . when I’m a millionaire . . . I’ll live there. For now, I’ll just visit and encourage you to do so as well.

***

When you visit San Francisco, and I know you will, and you really have to, I recommend a stop at Home Cafe.

***

Enjoy the hills! Enjoy the outdoors! Take the Muni, get a Lyft, or walk over to Noriega St. and 20th Ave. It’s part of the experience.

***

You’ve arrived.

It’s a small venue and there is no outdoor seating.

I went on a Saturday morning and had to take my food and drink to-go. It was packed–line out the door.

As the line moved, I noticed long tables, seats next to big windows, and a fun policy: no devices.

While no one is going to kick you out, I saw someone on a laptop, this establishment encourages conversation. I appreciate that, and it plays well into this idea of “home.”

Food.

Well, it’s not pictured because I took it to-go, and I opened it up, and I tasted it, and then I devoured it. I’m not sure how I breathed I ate so fast.

What did I get? Condensed milk toast.

I feel like San Francisco is the only place where toast could be marketed and purchased as a meal. I would say I fell for it (I bought toast?), but honestly it was an amazing dessert, or large pastry. So amazing, when I opened my container I couldn’t stop to take a picture or consider anything but shoving it into my mouth.

Now, this trip was made possible by one of my best friends who lives in San Francisco. She got some toast as well, but hers was the special of the day. We both shared some of our toast with her baby. Her baby loved every bite–every bite we managed to share with her. So that’s three great reviews on the toast–that means get some toast!

And what goes with toast?

Coffee.

If you look at reviews online, one thing people keep saying is: drinks are great for Instagram!

Well, as important as pictures may be to some, and I understand presentation is crucial, let’s face it: it needs to taste good.

And this is where Home Cafe won my heart all over again. I ordered their famous birthday cake latte. Presentation and Instagram worthiness: A+. Then, the first sip.

It was sweet, but not overdone. It had a creamy feel to it. It wasn’t exceptionally strong, but from what I gather it’s not meant to be a strong elixir of coffee or caffeine. It was just delicious.

I’m not a chugger of coffee, I usually allow it to cool for about 5 minutes and then I sip for a good 30 minutes. That did not happen. I drank this quickly. It was simply a perfectly balanced drink. Truly delicious. I craved it every day after our visit.

My friend? She got a coconut almond latte. She enjoyed her drink as well, but I think birthday cake latte wins. We did not share any coffee with her baby. We did however drink our coffee and eat our toast at the San Francisco Zoo. That’s right: the zoo!

Home Cafe has an intimate venue, Instagram worthy coffee, delicious coffee, insane toast options, and a great location–just four miles from the zoo.

So, with all of that in mind, the next time you’re in San Francisco: get some coffee, and toast, at Home Cafe–and if there’s nowhere to sit, or if you want to drink and eat with a pretty neat view, head over to the zoo! And when you’re done at the zoo, go back to Home Cafe–let me know about the rest of the toast!

March 5, 2018 0

Las Vegas, NV, USA: Sunrise Coffee House

We’re back in Sin City!

As you know, I am the biggest fan of Mothership. That love is deep. That love is also very closely connected to Sunrise Coffee House.

Why? Well, they’re owned by the same people!

Yes, down the street from Mothership, is actually the mother (brilliant word choice I know).

Now, is it a duplicate? No. Each coffee establishment—here, connected, or otherwise–always has its own standouts, its own merits, its own vibes.

What differentiates Sunrise?

First, Sunrise has a drive-thru, so if you’re in a rush, you don’t need to get out of your car.

Secondly, it’s bigger. It has ample space on the inside and the most wonderful outdoor seating area. It is one of my favorite places to sit on a sunny day–and there’s lots of those in Vegas. The inside, due to spacing, has more options for seating as well. There are tall tables for standing or high-sitting. There are normal tables. There are a couple of couches, and even a little nook right when you walk in.

I appreciate the varied seating, sometimes you need to put your feet up and sometimes you need to stand. Sometimes you want to sit indoors, sometimes you want to go outside and enjoy the warmth of the sun. Sunrise has it all.

The size of Sunrise allows for more plug options. In fact, they have set up a few powerstrips to make it even more work/ device friendly. It’s a simple touch that makes for a more conducive work visit.

In addition to these added features, like Mothership, they have outstanding pastries–because Mothership makes them! I don’t need to tell you how much I love their baking. Just remember, it’s the best. And, everything is made fresh daily so come early, once it’s gone, it’s gone for the day.

On top of pastry options, Sunrise serves actual food. It’s not a restaurant, but the menu has a few basic breakfast and lunch items.

Not only has everything I’ve tried been delicious–simple things like a bagel to more complicated items like the hot mess bowl–but there are vegan and gluten-free options. Healthy and delicious: that’s a winning combination.

And the coffee? Well, it’s exceptional. My favorite is a hot Hazelnut Latte, and since I have the option of a large, it’s always large. It’s the best Hazelnut Latte I have ever tried–anywhere. I’ve also had their Nutella Latte, Butterbeer Latte, and Vanilla Latte. Everything is tasty. However, the most ridiculously important find: iced coffee.

When I order an iced Hazelnut anywhere else, I’m not a fan. Unless it’s just regular iced coffee, flavors seem to ruin my drink. And, to be honest, iced coffee was just okay.

I used to think that I didn’t really care for iced coffee, and certainly didn’t like it in flavors, which is incredibly unfortunate when it’s 115 degrees outside–for four months. I could drink it, but it wasn’t anything I ever craved or devoured. Then, a friend met me at Sunrise and ordered one. They encouraged me to try it, they said it was great, and to just trust them.

Curiosity peaked. I had faith. I took the plunge.

Sunrise Coffee House makes the best iced coffee I have ever tasted–specifically, the best iced Hazelnut on the planet. I have never come across an iced coffee I could chug, drool over, crave . . . until Sunrise. All of their drinks are great, everything I have had has been delightful, but the greatest find for me: an utterly outstanding iced coffee.

Sunrise is a great coffee shop. It is top-notch. It’s in Las Vegas, it’s family-owned, by a Las Vegas native. It has a large drink menu full of delicious options, appetizing food options, a gorgeous outdoor seating area, plenty of plugs, varied seating for whatever your mood, mouth-watering pastries . . . and plenty of parking. And if it that’s not enough to convince you, then read this: The Best Places for Coffee in Every State–that’s right, in Nevada, it’s Sunrise.

. . . Time for some Hazelnut coffee y’all . . .

February 23, 2018 2

Boulder City, NV, USA: CRCR

CRCR: Colorado River Coffee Roasters

Boulder City is about 45 minutes from The Strip in Las Vegas. It is located near the Arizona/ Nevada border.

When I think of Boulder City, I think ‘under the radar.’ It’s very easy to look over it or to drive by, drive over the Hoover Dam, and keep going. I’m here to say: don’t. Don’t let it slip under your radar.

First, consider what they tell you on the sign: Home of the Hoover Dam. So go see it. Marvel at construction, technology, and a bit of U.S. history.

LRG_DSC00036 (2).jpeg — View from Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge

Now you’ve seen the Hoover Dam. Well, the Hoover Dam is home to Lake Mead National Park. I’m a HUGE fan and advocate of national parks–they are American treasures, which now more than ever, deserve to be admired. People come from all over the world to admire our parks–you should too.

LRG_DSC00031 (2) — Lake Mead from a viewpoint before reaching the Hoover Dam

Now, there’s lots to do. So, enjoy the lake. Walk through the Historic Railroad Trail. Take a hike. Love nature.

Not outdoorsy? Not really a nature person? Drive around it. There are dirt roads and paved roads to take great photos. In fact, I took a dirt road with a friend and saw a donkey. A real-life donkey, just in its element.

IMG_4698 (2) — Just a donkey, watching me drive by . . .

Ok, at this point you’re thinking a day with man-made and natural beauty sounds fabulous, but I think I need some coffee to make this day better.

Well, I have an answer.

Colorado River Coffee Roasters is a small venue for coffee education and purchase. It is not a coffee shop. It’s a place to learn and taste, and buy.

CRCR roasts Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. During this time you can watch the process and talk to the owners.

It’s a family-owned business. I went twice: once on a non-roasting day and once on a roasting day. Go on a roasting day, the smell is incredible! Not to mention, you get to see the action!

LRG_DSC00194 (2) — Roasted coffee beans–it’s glorious!

The people are super-friendly, ready to show you around, and eager to share about their coffee and its origins. They’ll offer an espresso, or some coffee they have brewed for the day. Correct answer to a sample: yes, please.

It’s a small operation, and again it’s not a coffee shop. I visited for about 10-20 minutes. I took pictures, talked coffee, and purchased some beans. I loved it. It was a great way to sample some coffee, see the roasting process in action, and talk with people who are genuinely and fully passionate about coffee–my kind of people.

So, before or after Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam, before perhaps some antique shopping even (Boulder City is great for this too), stop by Colorado River Coffee Roasters.

Tour, learn, taste, and buy.

LRG_DSC00221 (2).jpeg — When I left CRCR I turned onto the main highway and saw Desert Bighorn Sheep. Fresh coffee, Lake Mead National Park, the Hoover Dam, antique shops, and the sight of Nevada’s state animal–Boulder City is amazing!

February 11, 2018 1

Las Vegas, NV, USA: MOTHERSHIP

So you’re in Las Vegas and wondering where to get the best coffee?

There’s really only one response: Mothership.

I will always vote Mothership.

I have other recommendations, but if you can only go to one place, it’s Mothership.

***

Let’s start with some basics: it’s a bit small and hidden. It’s in a Trader Joe’s parking lot and had a friend not heard of it, and told me to meet them there, I would have continued walking by it as I had done for some time.

It’s relatively new, I believe it opened about 3 years ago, so it’s quite the find and many locals are still in the throws of discovery. If you ask someone and they don’t say Mothership, they just don’t know, otherwise they would have recommended it.

The plug situation is not great. For those of you interested in typing away, make sure you’re fully charged–seats next to the powerstrip are limited. For those of you who don’t care, this is probably the best place. I actually appreciate that I see more people sitting and actually talking to one another, or reading an actual book, than plugged into a device. It adds to the experience.

Mothership is owned by a local, like someone who actually grew up in Vegas. For those of you who don’t understand the emphasis–no one is ‘from’ Vegas. Vegas is home to transplants from all over the world, so when someone is from Vegas, that’s noteworthy. It’s some place local, owned by a true local and thats makes going here extra special.

Now, on to the shop itself!

Mothership has a small menu for coffee. It’s not about options, it’s about quality. Not to mention there’s always the ability to tailor any drink to your palette. My forever drink: hot almond milk latte.

I have had the Peruvian pour over, it’s excellent. I had their short-lived lemonade, which was outstanding. I’m actually pretty surprised it didn’t do well. Their hot chocolate is incredible–not overly sweet, just a smooth chocolate that melts in your mouth and travels to your soul.

Locally owned, great coffee, an environment built around the coffee experience, but it doesn’t stop there. Pastries.

The baking is unbelievable. There are sweet and savory options–and vegan options. And everything, literally everything, is delicious.

Recently, they have had these pumpkin pop-tarts that are heaven. The pop-tart breading is just a tad bit crispy around the edges. The filling is creamy–pumpkin joy. The drizzle of chocolate on top offers an added touch of sweetness. It’s flaky and a little messy, but the perfect companion to any coffee drink.

For a year, yes a year, every Sunday, I had a chocolate croissant. Croissant: delicious. Chocolate: delicious. Combining croissant and chocolate? Genius.

As though this weren’t enough, I have never had a bad experience at Mothership. Every barista, on any given day, has been helpful, kind, and ready to explain or offer up something new–should you ask. They know their stuff.

If you’re in Vegas and you want a local gem, it’s Mothership. If you’re driving through Vegas, stop at Mothership. If you live nearby, go now. Whatever the question, the answer is Mothership . . . and if there’s no pumpkin pop-tarts left, I ate them. I apologize in advance.

February 1, 2018 5

Las Vegas, NV, USA: Coffee and Bingo

When I first moved to the Las Vegas area, I only gambled when people were in town. I essentially stuck to The Strip too. At some point though, I ventured into the local casino scene and discovered BINGO.

When I walked by the Bingo Hall, at times, the doors were opened but the place was empty. At other times, it was closed and filled with people. Mostly people far from my age bracket. It was intimidating, but alluring. I just wanted to be able to say I had done it.

So, with some brave friends, I tried it. I haven’t looked back. I’m a Bingo fanatic. I won’t bring trolls, or a fancy dauber bag, but trust me, my love is real.

Bingo is normally about an hour. Sessions are generally odd hours only. Some places have only paper play, others combine electronic and paper play.

In a casino and gambling environment, Bingo is one of the few places where money is guaranteed to last. You pay to play for the full hour; that’s one whole hour you know your money will live. It’s the only time you play until someone wins, that’s pretty positive playing. Although it can be stressful, because you still want to be the winner, but that’s another story.

Finally, Bingo is the cheapest and best deal for gambling fun, or really any paid fun. Only have 5 bucks to spare? No problem, $4 for a blue pack, $1 for a dauber. Go ahead and play.

So what does this have to do with coffee? Well, it’s quite the deal for coffee too, especially spiked coffee.

***

You’re in Vegas and want to gamble but need some coffee this morning?

Here’s my recommendation: BINGO. Specifically, 9 a.m. Bingo.

See 9 a.m. is special, not only do you get free drinks, you get a free donut. All initial sessions of the day–at Station Casinos and Southpoint for sure–donuts are provided to players.

Sunset Station is my favorite Bingo establishment, it’s the closest to my home and I know the workers now, so it’s extra cozy. I also know a few people at Green Valley Ranch, thanks to its distance to my home as well and a few transplants from Sunset. Nevertheless, wherever you go, you’ll be in good hands. People are helpful with Bingo orders as well as drink orders.

And this, this is where coffee enters. You’ll need an extra couple of bucks for drinks, so bring at least $7 not $5. Yes, they are *free* drinks, however I absolutely support tipping.

***

Your recommendation for coffee today: Bingo Hall, Sunset Station (any Station Casino technically). Your order: coffee with Baileys and whipped cream. Baileys at 9 a.m.? This is Vegas. Whipped cream adds 100 calories? Well, I might run around after winning Bingo, so I’ll take my chances.

And that my friends is my first coffee find and insight for you. Bring cash (all Bingo halls are cash only businesses), drink, play.

***

If you’re worried about smoke, head over to Red Rock Station or Green Valley Station, there’s a separate room for smokers and non-smokers, won’t smell a thing.

If you go anywhere else, there are separate sections for smoking and non-smoking. So just sit at the far end of non-smoking like I do.

January 22, 2018 1