Hoboken...My Favorite Shop

Final Blog post, for December at least! I saved my all-time favorite coffee shop for last! HOBOKEN! I think my love for this coffee shop started when I first started going to church at Frontline. As the owners go to church there too. They donate coffee to the church every Sunday; which got me hooked!

The shop itself is located in downtown Guthrie. The couple who owned the shop spent their first part of their marriage studying coffee culture in Oregon; while they are truly humble, and successful!

The shop itself was once an old garage in downtown Guthrie; that is now the home of Hoboken! Sitting behind the Guthrie high school football field it is unavoidable. With an outdoor porch, and stringed lights, give it that summer feel in December. The shop itself is filled with antiques, giving it that rustic charm.

Today I got a Carmel Latte; which was a perfect ending to a seemingly hecktic week. I think this is the place that I have spent many times with my best friend, sitting and talking from July to December of all that is going on.

I would have to say this is a place that you should go to before you see downtown Guthrie. Friendly, humble people that know what it is to staying true to homegrown.

If this shop was a person final exam? I think that it would have to be someone that is well rounded and educated, and knows the value of a good cup of coffee!

Well, go check out Hobokens website and read more about the shop itself and its history…and get hooked!

http://www.hobokencoffeeroasters.com/

Vintage Coffee After Some Turkey

Vintage Coffee was the coffee destination this week. When you pull up to Vintage Coffee you get the feel of an old mission from the past.  The shop itself reminded me of being back in California.

With a hard time keeping my eyes open from the turkey. It is just a sign that the tryptophan is in full swing, and it is time for some coffee to pick me up.

Hours of shopping, and visiting with family, I want something that will give me the energy I need. Vintage Coffee was the solution to all my problems!

As soon as the doors are opened to this coffee shop, you get more of a modern vibe. With metal siding on the coffee bar, and brick walls it is apparent that this more of a laid back type of place. The staff is eager to give you the perfect coffee; making this place simply unavoidable.  

I am on my home streak of by big coffee drinking adventure! Going to as many coffee shop as possible in the OKC area. I am determined to try everyone’s espresso! Staying true to my blogs title.

Drinking it in Vintage Coffee shop I felt as though it was truly home-style setting. The coffee shop itself reminds me that coffee can be more home grown and that is what I got here.

After this past week of Thanksgiving, I cannot help to be thankful for coffee in my life! Vintage Coffee is a true testament coffee is an essential!

Connie stated this about the coffee, “It was exactly what I needed after a long four day weekend of shopping!”

If this coffee shop was person who might it be? It would have to be someone who is true to their home roots!

Now lets all remember that Christmas is just around the corner, and that means coffee season is in full swing!

To know more about Vintage Coffee  visit the coffee shops facebook page and give them some likes!

https://www.facebook.com/VintageCoffeeOK

Cuppies and Joe

Cuppies and Joe was the coffee destination this week. In a prime location between the Capitol and Oklahoma City University, it is a must. Cuppies and Joe is located in a bungalow on 23^rd street, and after a long day, it is some time for some caffeinating. Cuppies and Joe not only offers coffee, but cupcakes too.

The coffee shop has that small town bakery feeling. As you enter there is Oklahoma door mat, just a reminder of where you are at. The shop is filled with college student cramming for that next test. The staff is eager to help those who enter. To make things even better there are numerous choices of cupcakes and cookies.

Today my coffee was a latte again. I have a feeling I am becoming slightly addicted after a semester of writing about different coffees. My latte was perfection, but to make things interesting I added a cupcake.

As I sat there looking at all the different college students studying it reminded me that my college days are coming to an end. I will not forget that coffee is an essential staple of life though.

We are pushing the end of “who this coffee shop would be if it was a person?” OBVIOUSLY, a college student stressing about those finals coming up!

Cuppies and Joe is an awesome coffee shop. To know more about the shop itself head to their website at http://www.cuppiesandjoe.com/

Expresso My Opinion Goes International

The international festival was held on November 13 presenting different cultures around the world. I went to many different booths as I was there. With numerous booths, it made it difficult to visit them all, but I went Japan, Brazil, and Nepal booths. I found each booth to be really fascinating overall. Especially, the food that were given at each one.

                The University of Central Oklahoma states this as why they do this event each year. “Every fall UCO's international student population comes together in a celebration to share their culture through displays of food, crafts, art, and performing talents. This is one of the most anticipated events on campus for both the UCO community and the metropolitan community.”

                The experience as a whole was really fascinating. As soon as you entered the building you could smell the different foods that had been cooked; with seas of people in the ballroom at the University of Central Oklahoma it is obvious that there is a real appreciation for the different culture at the university.

                What stood out most to me was the fact that everyone on campus seemed to be there, and that they seemed to enjoy each second. Along with the food was performances. The options were endless to the booths you could go too. With free drinks and free food, it seemed to be irresistible to those who were near the campus.

                I focused most of my time with the booth dealing with Nepal. The international student that I spoke to gave me a deeper appreciation for the country and the culture itself. As the first in his family to attend college he found America very intriguing. As a native to Nepal he learned his town’s native tongue, along with English, and the countries language too.

               Kukri is the country sword. The sword is curved inward and more of a machete. Another symbol of the country was the ringing bowl, a bowl that is similar in sound to the regular hand bell that we use to call and make music with.

                The Nepal food is really actually sweet. The native dish consists of rice and spices. Chatpata was the rice they served, it reminded me a lot of Spanish rice. Which I love. Another dish was a yogurt and raisin desert type dish, which was really sweet.

                What I personally took away from this event was the fact that even though you might live in a box, you should try to step away from it once in a while. To get to try new food, and experience a diverse world outside of the one I live in.  

Out of my Element Downtown

Today I took a little bit of an adventure to downtown for some amazing coffee! Elemental coffee was where I ended up. To say the least it was worth the drive. The shops parking lot was packed out; with numerous cars in the parking lot it was easy to recognize that this is a city favorite. I had to park in a parking lot all the way on the other side of the building just to get in.

As you enter the 50’s retro building you see stainless steel chairs, and long benches that are divided among three different departments. This is totally different compared to the different shops in Edmond. I really got the feeling of a metro area there, it seemed more fast pace.

A sea of hipsters filled the shop.  As usual I order an espresso because after as many times I have drank espresso, I still fall in love with the designs that each shop has in their coffee.

Today, I also got a wonder bar; which I loved. Coffee and cold weather are the perfect mix, for a perfect ending to a perfect day.

Final rounds “if this coffee shop was a person who would it be?”  Most definitely it would have to be a hipster, sipping on some coffee. Without a care in the world.

I have decided this is my new favorite coffee shop downtown. I think this should be yours too. So put on some hipster clothing and go to Elemental coffee shop downtown. To end or start a wonderful day with some coffee and a wonder bar.

If you want to know more about Elemental Coffee shop visit the shops website at:

http://elementalcoffee.com/about-us/

Directed to Compass Coffee House

Compass coffee shop in Edmond is where I was directed today. With cold weather outside and not much going on this morning, like my past five posts, coffee is the answer.

 

Coffee is an essential in life; especially for a college student. I encourage any new freshmen into college that you find your favorite coffee shop ASAP, and maybe Compass Coffee House might just be that one.

I got there about 11 o’clock to order up some coffee. A cappuccino with cinnamon was the drink of the day, and I might come for seconds later today, as they have a drive thru at this awesome coffee shop.

 

The shop offers a wide variety in flavoring. When I asked for the choices they offer, the barista spouted of a list that seemed to go on forever, and like it was nothing to her.

 

Now let’s talk about the setting of the shop itself, resembling a warehouse inside; with random seating everywhere. Two girls sit on there laptops on the other side of the counter at the bar; while sipping on some coffee.

As I sat there I am reminded Christmas is almost here again, and it seems like 2014 has flown by.  Coffee has gotten me through this one!

Final rounds of if this coffee shop was a person who would it be? I have a feeling that it would be someone that is an artistic, and extremely laid back, and possibly unpredictable.

Compass coffee has a drive thru and is located between 33rd and Santa Fe. Now is the time for some coffee as we hit that peak final season!

To know more about this awesome coffee shop visit their website at http://www.compasscoffeehouse.com/

Tao Cha Cafe in Edmond

So it continues. Chai Tea is the answer this week. Tao Cha Café has the best Chai Tea in Edmond. My best friend Marissa got me hooked this past year on this tea. It is still the same to this day. I love drinking mine with tapioca in it. The restaurant serves a wide away of food and drinks. No matter what I turn to the tea.

As soon as you enter you are greeted by a younger staff ready to make whatever you are wanting. What I love about this particular place is the fact they are always giving the best customer service. Even with a Chai Tea, they still find you in the restaurant to serve it to you.

Overall, I love to just sit there after or before class getting in my last few seconds of studying for a test, or writing a paper. With tables and couches it is the best place for studying.

So let’s talk about the Chi Tea.  

 

This particular drink is iced, and you can get it with tapioca which I suggest. Or you can get it without the tapioca in it. Not only that, but Chi Tea has great health benefits. The benefits of Chai Tea are numerous.

My favorite place to hang out is on the red couch when you first enter. With numerous magazines on the table this is the only time I can catch up on my pop culture fix. While enjoying this amazing drink.

Good tea at an awesome place. I cannot complain. Well, another awesome time to relax in the home stretch of my Senior year of college. Lets hope that Chai Tea helps me to get through this last six weeks of college!

Guess what time it is? Of course it continues, If this shop was a person, who would it be?  It would have to be a person that is very health conscious, and love them some tea.

So go visit Tao Cha Café on second street across the way from Target to get a cup of this amazing Chai Tea.

 

All About Cha Something New in Edmond

After buying my cap and gown for graduation I thought it was only time to go get some coffee. This led me to All About Cha. Located between Broadway and 33^rd in Edmond. The coffee there is sweet and an art form. Every coffee is picture perfect. Jenn stated this about the coffee, “I can’t drink it, it is to pretty!”

Heading into the stucco building, you get the feeling of feng shui. Different compartments and different furniture in each. The staff keeping busy. It seems that they are dedicated to what they do. The menu is vast with different types of coffees.

With numerous coffees on the list and a picture next to each one. Making picking one the hardest part of my day. This lead to a struggle, but I finally choose Carmel Macchiato.

Even though the coffee is picture perfect, the staff brought it out in seconds. It was like what Jenn said, “Pretty!”  The coffee is more like a desert, and perfect with each ingredient. With a sweet tooth myself. It was what I wanted to top a perfect day!

Round three of who this coffee shop might be if it was a person! I think it would most definitely have to be someone who is into nature and possibly eating healthy, but has a sweet tooth. Wanting to have a balanced life style, they seem to sneak away for having something sweet.

If you want some down time, and want to have a stress free time. All About the Chi is the place for you. So head on over and check out the menu, because I think once you look over the menu you will have to pick one and maybe two.

Perk Place a New Place to Go in Edmond

Well, it is almost fall break! So, what does that mean...COFFEE! After, some hours of school and some volunteering it might just mean I need some time to sip on some coffee.

Like I promised last week, after looking through my Media Ethics Conference brochure it lead me to wanting to try this place out. With the shop offering free coffee (in the morning) I thought I need to try this place out ASAP!

Walking in the door the blend of coffees fill the air of different coffee grinds, and pastries that were baked this morning. With the staffs friendly smiles greet those who enter the brick building. Not only serving coffee, but with a wide range of food options.


The shop is similar to a coffee chain, except it is obvious this place is a local owned and true to Oklahoma coffee shops. Which I can not deny. As a transplant from California, I fell in love with Oklahoma as soon as I got here,  and the friendly people, and I was calling this place home as soon as my feet hit the ground!


So what did I drink today did you ask? Americano to be patriotic. With enough of a double shot to survive till 9 p.m. (like a true old woman at heart) with another round coming my way. My coffee was perfection. The cream and sugar was just right.

After today I realized how much I love Oklahoma as my home state. Those who are reading this I hope this is your home too. Those who might be from out of state, I think it is time you pack your stuff up and move to Oklahoma, and become a Oklahoman!

The game continues again, If this shop was a person, who would it be. Obviously, a Oklahoman true to their roots ready to lend a helping hand at any moment. 

So step away from your favorite coffee chain, and come visit Perk Place in Edmond.

For those UCO students reading have a amazing fall break!

To know more visit
http://www.perkplacecafeok.com/

Guess Speaker for Blogging for Journalists: What I learned Assignment

As some of my readers know, I am doing this blog for a mass communication class at the University of Central Oklahoma. Dr. Kurt Hochenauer spoke to my blogging class this week on his personal blog.

He taught us that we can take any topic and cover them. What I also learned from Dr. Kurt Hochenauer was that blogging can sometimes be overwhelming and that you do feel as though you do not have enough topics to cover, but somehow you find a topic in that last second, that leads to something amazing.

 I know, personally, when I took another Journalism class, and when people complained about not having enough topics, the teacher always stated there is a story everywhere, and you just have to look for it. Which I guess is true in blogging also.

                I found it intriguing how he said he dealt with negative comments from the public. That he thought those who had a differing perspective should go and do their own personal blogging, and express their opinion that way. I see that blogging is just that, a way of expressing what we feel and what we think on topics.

                I also admired the fact that he did not just write about the usual topics in his category, but tried to step away to uncover new topics, or ones with a new twist.  I personally feel this is very key. No matter how much your category or topic is covered you should try to make it individualistic.

Expresso My Opinion Reporting on the UCO Media Ethics Conference

Today I drank my coffee while going to the Media Conference at the University of Central Oklahoma. Blogging, I feel, is very much associated with Public Relations, because it lets those who are practitioners of public relations to be able to relate to those they are in the community with.  At the conference it dealt with ethical dilemmas that those in the business face.

 

There was multiple speakers at the event. The lecture I attended had prominent speakers from diverse areas of the field.

 Two of my professors were there. Dr. Lambeth and Dr. Martin. There was also Rob Crissinger from Bumbershoot PR, Liz Johnson from the Academy of Contemporary Music, and Joshua Watson a professor at OC.

The panel was a diverse group that brought some interesting topics up, such as photography issues and grouping with partners.

What I took away from this conference was that you should always look at what the long term impact of your actions will be. Always look to your publics.

Consider what the reaction will be of those who are seeing this and are your publics. Take in the feedback, and watch out for backlash. When in unethical situation stand up for what you believe to be right.

The ending remarks were the most memorable to me, the panel’s advice to the students who attended. The one that stuck in my mind the most was from Rob Crissinger from Bumbershoot PR.

 

A Preview for Next Week

He presented the idea of “always putting others first” when trying to become successful. That you never really know who the next CEO might be, and it could be the intern, or any other member of the team.

 In the end everyone has value. I felt very honored to have listened to such a diverse, but knowledgeable group.

To read more about the Media Ethics Conference visit  the UCO website
http://www.uco.edu/la/ethicsconference/         

Aspen a Mountain Peak in Edmond Oklahoma

Another coffee adventure begins!  Aspen coffee being the final destination. After meeting with friends this past weekend for coffee, a friend suggested I write on this shop. My friend Marrissa stated, “Aspen coffee is the BEST coffee! Even better then (unnamed coffee shops), and so many others!”  After a morning of classes, it was time for a break, and coffee was the answer.

Aspen is located in the central part of Edmond. Right next to the train depot in-between 33^rd and Broadway. I have always liked the train depot part of Edmond, so as soon as I found out that it was located in that area.  I felt this was a must to write about for my blog.

The shop has high ceilings and modern light fixtures giving it the feel of a warehouse. The staff seems to have a true desire to be more about health and nature. Staying true to what I think Aspen represents.

Today I sipped on a Mocha. Which I have not had one of those in forever. With a day that is 90 degrees out in Oklahoma, in the first part of fall. I could have easily got this iced, but with wanting colder weather. I got it hot. You can tell they try to use natural products, evident with every sip.  

 As I sat there listening to John Meyer over the speakers, and watching the people come in and out. I remembered that coffee shops remind me of so many times with my friends, and the hours I have spent telling them of the worst, and the best times of life.

 This could have led to my coffee addiction. I truly feel that it is more than coffee, but for me a place to connect with friends and to just hang out.

Of course “if this coffee shop was a person” game begins again. I would have to say that it is someone maybe from Colorado, and ready for some snow in Oklahoma even though it is 90 degrees out. The shop itself is worth taking that ride over the bumpy train tracks.

If you want to know more about Aspen Coffee Company check out the coffee shop website at

http://aspencoffeecompany.com/

Coffee Commission is on a Mission while Delivering to the Community

Todays coffee visit was at coffee commission in Edmond. A shop that is hidden right next to Target on the second floor of the strip mall. As soon as you enter the door you are welcomed by a friendly staff, and an open environment. The shop itself is like a loft apartment. With an array of tables, with sections divided off with room dividers. Some spots with overstuffed couches, to iron coffee tables and chairs.

Usually there is certain types of people that are attracted to different coffee shop, but at coffee commission, there seems to be all sorts.



From the middle aged business men discussing a business deal. In another couch sits a guy preparing for his next class. Then two frat guys sitting talking over what happened this past weekend. All drinking coffee, and multi-tasking, to take on this Tuesday.

Today I grabbed an Andes mint latte. If you want to know three important things to me in food. That it somehow ties into chocolate, mint, or coffee. So this drink is the perfect drink for myself. I know Christmas is three months away, but this reminds me of what is to come.

Connie a frequenter of the coffee shop stated, "I love this shop it is truly one of a kind...and is very welcoming."

The shop itself prides itself on being a Christian company that supports a cause each month. The company gives back a certain percentage. They also participate in different events around town. Again, if this coffee shop was a person, it would definitely have to be a person that is strong in their beliefs, but diversified. The coffee shop is worth the trip up those steps to the second floor.
To know more about the shop visit the shops website at http://www.coffeecommissionedmond.com/

CowGirl Coffee Driving Customers Off the Beaten Path

An early morning to school again is sometimes unforgettable. As I drove down west waterloo road, and as I past the sonic to my right. I know my favorite place is just around the corner. The last time I visited this coffee shop was not since March of this year. It is like visiting a long lost friend.

Cowgirl coffee is a coffee shack tucked away in the country side of Edmond.

It is truly authentic to boots, and flowers. With both sides serving coffee on each side, of the north and south. The hours are shorter than others. Opening early, but closing at two.

The shack widows on each side have pink curtains displayed staying true to their cowgirl image; while having flower beds on each side with fake flowers of disarray of colors from pink to blue. Outside is displayed with different country décor.

The shack is so small, but the two baristas are in there. The two seem to be close friends, laughing and enjoying each second together. While, sitting there a regular customers pulled up. The two called by name, as if this was just another small town on a back road.

As I looked over the menu I see the options are endless. You can choose the type of coffee with the type of flavoring. Today, was a Christmas Flavor in the end of September of a Latte; with peppermint. With a chocolate covered expresso bean covered in chocolate on top.

Connie a frequenter of the coffee shop said, “She loved their Chai Tea with pumpkin this time of year. It is the official start of Fall…and I am ready!”

The coffee shop is definitely a country girl, ready to serve and help each second. This is a coffee shop tucked away from the city, that is worth the drive off of the beaten path.

Coffee Slingers in Downtown Oklahoma City

Since I go to church downtown, I frequent this shop a lot. I think it is hard to deny that coffee slingers is not truly a representation of big town coffee shop. The modern stainless steel appliances and granite give it that modern uniqueness that is present throughout downtown. Its location is amazing. It is located in the heart of Automoblie Alley in Oklahoma  City. Seated by Hideaway Pizza, and numerous restaurants, it is a real awesome place.

Today, I ordered a Latte. The cream and sugar were perfect. The milk was steamed just right, and perfect amount of espresso. I think it was that boost I need to get through the day. Overall, I enjoyed the drink. I also thought their cups were adorable, with a personal stamping on the side. Marissa McNelly a frequenter of coffee slingers said this, "I love the fact that it is downtown, and a perfect place to meet up in the day or at night."

I would definitely have to say if this was a person. I would have to say it would be a modern city guy or girl that is working their way up the corporate ladder. Trying to make an impression, along with having simplistic taste in things. The shop and the coffee are amazing and something to talk about. If you are in downtown, I would highly suggest going there.

Credo House in Oklahoma City

This is one of my favorite coffee shops in Oklahoma City. I love going there for some studying, and meeting with my best friend. The shop has a strong connection to the Christian faith. When I reported on the shop in the past semester in my journalism class, I learned that each employee is trained in their field, to get special certification in coffee making. If this shop was a person it would be someone who is knowledgeable about their profession, and passionate about it. I asked a fellow coffee patron Connie about her opinion of the coffee shop,and she said,  "This place is amazing to see the deep connect to the a religious background and the staffs commitment to the community."

 Today I tried a cappuccino. It was amazing to me that they can make a design in their coffees like they do. It was just what I needed today, a extra pick me up. The foam topping was perfect, and with the perfect amount of sugar and cream; just what I needed to get through studying for my physical science class.

 The shop itself is very peaceful, and they have awesome music. With awesome seating of overstuffed coaches, and study areas of tables placed throughout the shop, it is obviously something I cannot avoid. It is an amazing place, with an awesome staff, that knows their coffee. That is why I would strongly suggest this coffee shop for anyone wanting a quick cup of coffee.

Starbucks Next to the University of Central Oklahoma

Having a case of the Mondays is the worst! I guess that is why there is coffee to  cure those days that are the hardest. Through out my time at the University of Central Oklahoma I have loved to go to the local Starbucks right across the way  from the campus. I have made many stops there over my years at UCO. I know it is not a local coffee shop, but instead a chain. The feeling there is so much more than a chain and the memories I have there are priceless.

Today, I got one of my favorite Carmel Macchiato, for the last time this summer. The mix is always perfect each time. The topping of caramel is the cherry on top. I think each time I get this particular drink it reminds me of a ice cream sundae. I think as we are heading into fall, this might be just a reminder of the past summer, of the time in the sun! 

The coffee shop itself is pretty nice. They recently remodeled the store to be more accommodating  to the students at the University of Central Oklahoma. With tables for laptops, and more nooks the place is fitting for last minute cram sessions, and readings. The shop has that college vibe. If this shop was a person it would definitely  be a college student. With many college students running in and out. This shop is the ideal coffee shop for any college student looking for a study area.