Recent flavor discoveries

  My readers know that I jump back and forth between local coffeehouses in the search for new flavors. Here are two more that I am introducing to you this week.
CUPS : Nutella flavor has been on the menu for awhile and everytime I come back. I can't fall out of love with it! Nutella is a hazelnut chocolate spread that is addictive and used as a substitute for peanut butter. Give it a shot!
Mill Mountain : Apple Pie  flavor is just as addictive as pumpkin anything. If you need a flavor switch from pumpkin EVERYTHING, this is your cup! The apple is not as overwhelming as one would expect and is blended with vanilla and cinnamon.
  While these are local businesses to me, don't be afraid to try your own local coffeehouse flavors. It's ok to ask for a thimble of it just so you can taste it. Why not be adventurous?

CUPS A Go Go!

  My favorite coffee hangout has expanded! Now this is month old news to the locals, but I finally had time to stop by there recently. Previous to Michelle Bennett obtaining the space, several coffee shops had opened and closed in the same location. Michelle knew that in order for the expansion to be successful she would have to do something different. She added a drive-thru! Now coffee lovers can get their favorite CUPS to go! Another issue, location. Having the extension mere minutes down the road is a boon to both storefronts. Then she added a third leg to this success wheel, she hired the person who runs Kneadful Things as a manager to make delicious goodies for everyone! And they cater!

  The general structure of the building has not changed much since the last time I was in there before CUPS expanded. One thing that they learned from their Grandin location, add lots of outlets for computer users! They also added their own "Leave Your Cup" shelving unit and some of the bobbleheads found a new home. Now I wish I could talk her into a Salem location! 

Confessions of Caffeine Addict

  We all talk about coffee. Whether we are addicts or the occasional imbiber. There is something about the aroma of fresh brew in the morning to get you going. Some of us equate the aroma and warmth of a fresh cup of java to the sensation of your grandmother's large afghan wrapped around your body. Others like the alertness factor caffeine delivers within the first fifteen minutes after your first sips.
  I have created this blog out of a love for the bean. Plus, Klout analytics believes that my other influential subject besides teaching is coffee! I hope you will join me on a journey of discovery about our favorite shared subject. I will be delivering coffee news, health issues associated with coffee, coffee recipes, and reviews of coffeehouses, local and chains, in the Roanoke Region. When I am lucky enough to travel, I will report on the coffee happenings where I am at that moment.
  One of my favorite coffeehouses is a little place on Grandin Rd. in Roanoke City called CUPS Coffee and Tea. It is affectionately called by the locals as "their other office" to the point that the owner, Michelle Bennet, had bumper stickers made to reflect this message. They serve locally roasted coffee, coffee confections, and goodies made by local artisan kitchens. They also sell t-shirts with funny slogans, display new artists once a month on the walls, and have added local knitting artisan to their collection of wares. On Tuesday nights, you can bring a team of your smartest friends down for CUPS Quiz at 7 pm and show off those gorgeous neurons. There is a section that has games that you can play while you are enjoying your coffee, plenty of seating inside and outside, a bike rack made by a local artist, and, best of all, you can leave one of your own mugs behind if you visit often enough!
  I am enjoying a locally roasted Costa Rican coffee. It has a smooth taste with a bit of a kick. I would place this roast in the medium category. Not too bold and definitely not dull. Their house flavor is Double D and I suggest you give this a try on your first visit. When I want to treat myself, I snag a Snickers Mocha. Yum! Come on down and hang out!