Posts Tagged ‘java’
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Thursday, July 23rd, 2009
By Warren Rojas
Plying chefs with high-test java is one way to spark culinary innovation.
Streaming a jolt of uber-concentrated Joe right into the food, though, is so much more fun.
Java Juice’s concentrated “liquid coffee extract” (dubbed “black gold”) makes amping up your favorite recipe—brownies, cocktails, steak marinades—a breeze, delivering the fresh brewed flavor of a full cup of organic Arabica beans in a 1/2-ounce shot (raw stuff tastes like a mildly green espresso).
Available in original, French vanilla, hazelnut or decaf.
Java Juice is available locally at adventure retailers like Arlington’s Casual Adventure and REI, or online via Amazon. To learn more about Java Juice, please visit: www.javajuiceextract.com.
(July 2009)
Posted by The Editorial Desk / Friday, January 9th, 2009
Don’t let the chilly service at corporate coffee chains leave you out in the cold. This winter, these friendly little java joints are the hottest places around.
By Abby Horowitz
Misha’s
In a Nutshell: Combination coffee shop and roaster with a funky side.
Must-Try: Route 66 Blend—a dark, house-roasted brew.
Price Range: $1.69-$3.65
Extra Perks: The aroma of roasting coffee, stacks of Scrabble boards and free Wi-Fi invite you to stay a while.
Steer Here: 102 S. Patrick St., Alexandria; 703-548-4089
Hours: 6:30 a.m.-8 p.m. daily
Gusto di Vita
In a Nutshell: Family-owned and -operated drive-through kiosk with lots of variety.
Must-Try: Mocha Divine—three secret mocha recipe comes topped with lots of whipped cream.
Price Range: $1.50-$5.00
Extra Perks: The knowledgeable staff is bursting with great recommendations.
Steer Here: Warrenton Village Center (off Route 17); 540-270-6543; www.gustodivita.com
Hours: 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday
The Java Shack
In a Nutshell: Intellectual yet unpretentious, a great place to meet up with friends.
Must-Try: Any of the signature lattes.
Price Range: $1.80-$4.25
Extra Perks: The Java Shack supports fair trade and goes the extra mile to be environmentally friendly.
Steer Here: 2507 N. Franklin Road; 703-527-9556; www.javashack.com
Hours: 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday
Raven’s Nest Coffee House
In a Nutshell: So warm and welcoming, you’ll think you’re at Grandma’s house.
Must-Try: Homemade Chai tea.
Price Range: $1.65-$3.95
Extra Perks: Free Wi-Fi, windows that let in lots of sunshine and plentiful seating make this the quintessential workspace or reading nook.
Steer Here: 254 E. Davis St., Culpeper; 540-827-4185
Hours: 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday
Mello Out
In a Nutshell: An inventive menu with some great non-coffee options (think apple cider and mint hot chocolate).
Must-Try: Mello Mocha—a blend of Italian hot chocolate, espresso and steamed milk.
Price Range: $1.55-$4.09
Extra Perks: Impressive homemade marshmallows and even better panini (try the Plescow!).
Steer Here: 2 E. Federal St., Middleburg; 540-687-8635; www.marshmellos.com
Hours: 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday
(January 2009)