Empire Coffee & Tea

I walk by this place every morning on my way to the train and it looks so cute--the quintessential corner coffee shop.  I am annoyed by the gentrification of our local neighborhoods,  and the overwhelming presence of Starbucks.  I am even more annoyed by the fact that I give Starbucks business in light of my feelings.  So, I am always happy to support a local business, especially when it is as charming as this little shop.

It's still warm outside, so I try an iced version of their daily special--pumpkin spice coffee.  The people behind the counter are very friendly and blew me away when they added my milk and sweetener for me!  Such a little gesture, but as far as coffee service goes, its rather unusual.  I loved the pumpkin spice iced coffee, it tasted like a fall drink yet had an original flavor combination.  The shop has loads of different flavored beans, all of which are on display and easy for customers to smell and sample.  

In light of the new Starbucks that just opened on Washington (the third one to open within 1 mile?!), I say go out and support Empire Coffee.  Try some of their flavored coffees or teas outside on the patio, revel in their kind staff and service and start your day with a better caffeine kick.