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Emerald City Press - CLOSED
113 reviews for Emerald City Press
113 reviews in English
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Review from Bonnye B.
Austin, TX
2/20/2011
WAS my favorite coffee in Austin! :c I loved getting a soy iced mocha. It tasted like dark chocolate, I called it midnight chocolate milk. :3 You can could get taco deli tacos and pizza there. (can't remember where it's from but it's nom nom)
And the little area in back was super cute and relaxing to hang out in. It's right by a small river. :C
PLLEASSSSEEEEEEE reopen! -
Review from Amber D.
10/2/2008 ROTD 8/4/2009
I came up to this joint as bitter as I expected my iced coffee to be.
No one batted an eye lash when I asked for the non-dairy options available, no looks of scorn crossed the barista's face when I questioned which sugar-free syrups I could choose...
In fact, these people were dancing. Literally, dancing to the music they had going behind the counter. Not just one or two, but the entire staff, prior to 8 in the morning was feeling the beat. I must say, from having the option of almond milk instead of soy... to tearing my bleary, hung-over eyes open to see smiling, dancing people - Emerald City, perhaps Israel and Palestine should start their mornings with you. I know my iced coffee and I left a little more sweet and totally unbitter.Listed in: Crack-Caffeine
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Review from Michelle C.
Austin, TX
3/29/2008 1 Check-in Here
Oh, yes.
This wonderful new stop on Lamar is a coffee house, news stand, and flower stand all rolled up into one charming little place. It channels part of what I love about San Francisco, where the sheer number of pedestrians encourages the proliferation of inviting little spots like these where people can purchase a bit of brightness for their lives.
The Emerald City Press is definitely a spot of brightness for Austin. It has convenient drive-through coffee service, plus a walk-up window for those of us who need a break from their cars. I was glad to read David G's comment about the back yard patio, as I somehow missed that - only saw one small table sitting out front.
In addition to a good selection of coffee and tea drinks and Goodflow juices, Emerald City carries an amazing selection of fabulous treats from Upper Crust Bakery, The Big Kolache, Tacodeli (INCLUDING Tacodeli's own salsa, which is key, IMO), Ken's Donuts, Boomerang Pies, Hot Jumbo Bagels, Sweetish Hill, Cipollina, Austinuts, and Vosges candy bars. They also carry a wide selection of both national and international newspapers, 28 magazines, and a selection of lovely and fresh-looking flowers and plants.
Service is super warm and Austin-friendly. That, combined with the emerald green tile and the welcoming, open feel of the walk-up counter truly do make you feel like you've stumbled upon a little oasis of bliss.
Move over, Jo's. These ruby slippers are on their way to Emerald City. -
Review from ruggy j.
11/21/2008
It's hard to review a coffee place when all you've really had a chance to order is a large Americano, but I gotta say, the hot, caffeinated beverage was a life saver on a coooooooooooold day in Austin. I wish I would have known the Snow Miser was planning on making an appearance in Central Texas while I was in town... because i would have packed an appropriate sweat shirt. Brrrrrrr!
Anyhoo, I made one observation that I'm sure will make me sound retarded... but they had the BEST to-go lids I've ever had at a coffee shop. Granted, it's not exactly environmentally friendly to consume coffee from these cups, but the way sipper-hole fit into my lips was divinity at it's finest. Sounds weird, but next time you drive through for some java, pay attention... it rules!Listed in: ATX, Give me coffee, or you will…
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Review from Katrina T.
Austin, TX
9/20/2008 ROTD 2/27/2009
You guys don't need any more love. Seriously, 45 reviews and 4.5 stars, you don't need it. I do, however, want to say thank you. Thank you for letting me eat the entire sample bowl of donut holes. I was having not only the worst morning ever, I was also majorly hungover and insanely hungry. Thank you for that. But I don't want to stop there.
Thank you for the samosa thingy, you know, the warm, delicious, and spinach and feta-y goodness thing. And yes people, they gave me this warm sample of heaven 2 seconds after I ate all the donut hole samples. I was a lot less grumpy after that. The agave limeade was delicious too. And no people, I paid for that one. I'm not a complete free loader.
FYI - they have awesome coffee and the friendliest staff ever.
Oh, I'll be back for the donut holes and samosa thingy, but you know, as a paying customer. Moo cow out. -
Review from jen c.
Austin, TX
7/20/2010
For roughly 7 years in total, I was a barista. A damn good one too, if I may say. With those years in coffee (and the testing, cupping, racing and artistry that I believe comes with the job), I think I have a little something to offer when it comes to coffee opining, though I won't bore you with too much pretentiousness-- all of the descriptive words in the world cannot compare to an individual's taste experience anyway. (And besides, I'm a writer so now I charge mad $krilla for that type of thing!)
What I can offer you is that their espresso is deep and chocolaty, their iced toddy-brewed coffee consistently smooth and refreshing. ECP's baristas have mastered the art of frothing milk, dependably serving a micro-bubbled, velvety latte or thickly-topped cappuccino. I've been able to count on their beverages when that sort of comfort is needed most, on the early dark winter mornings, the hot summer afternoons and the hazy mornings-after.
I used to live downtown (and I used to barista just down the street, actually) and my regular trips to ECP are one of the things I miss the most. Several have mentioned how friendly the baristas are, but only a few have mentioned how hardworking they are, especially when you take into consideration that since the place has an open construct, the baristas here are subject to Texas's oft-extreme elements. It's easy enough for a barista to feign friendliness to patrons, but at ECP it is truly genuine.
Last thing, not to get too political about this: In a society (and community such as Yelp) where we are constantly searching for the next big thing, there is something to be said about dependable deliciousness and it would be a shame to lose a fantastic place like Emerald City Press in the hubbub. They're not just smiling faces, they're a business, and to keep ECP around we need to support the great things they do/brew. I try to visit anytime I can (I live far down in S. Austin now) and when I do, it's well worth it. You should go too. It's like coming home. -
Review from Don P.
Austin, TX
4/27/2008
Early Warning System: DefCom 5 crush alert.
Emily is awesome. Pretty sure she's stalking me.
The way to my heart involves a complicated combination of TacoDeli migas taco with the legendary sauce of green, good coffee in a corn cup, everything bagels, upper crust treats, photo hut conversions, and hot curly-haired vintage-skirt-wearin' java hippies.
Stalk on oh great* one, stalk on.
*Legal Disclaimer: "Great" refers to prestige and is not in any way intended to represent mass. -
Review from Allison P.
Fort Worth, TX
4/8/2008
Everything about this place is totally cute, right down to the kid-sized tables and chairs on their patio.
As soon as I saw Jaye J's review, I bookmarked it and went right there on Saturday morning for breakfast. A small Mocha and a toasted bagel with cream cheese to be exact. They went overboard with the whipped cream and chocolate sauce, which pleased me even more. It looks like the items on their menu come from a variety of local restaurants and are designed for you veg lovers.
Emerald City Press has got it goin' on! -
Review from Dennis C.
Austin, TX
11/16/2008
The Espresso Soft Serve is fantastic. I am hooked on it. Beyond that, I totally dig the eco-friendly, community-conscious values that seem to drive what Emerald City does. I'm not Mr. Green Environmentalist, but I can appreciate the efforts made to operate a business that makes contributions to a better environment. Stuff like biodegradable straws and cups made from corn products or napkins from recycled paper...they're trying and I like it. They allow a local animal shelter to run dog/cat adoptions in the back of their property. I like that, too.
Okay, back to the coffee. The Espresso Soft Serve is terrific. Have I said that already? Worth saying again. I like mine with a double shot of espresso, personally. The friendly service is the cherry on top. The only negative is that, as a coffee shop, there's actually no seating. So, if you're looking for a place to hang out or do work for a couple hours, this won't be at the top of your list. -
Review from Christine A.
Austin, TX
4/12/2008
I came seeking the Wizard but found, oh so much more. What a perfect place for coffee and breakfast or juice and a snack. I stopped by after reading Allison P's review (who read Jaye J's review) and discovered delicious coffee, Tacodeli breakfast tacos and a newsstand with an international flair.
I always judge my coffee stops by the barista's attitude and helpfulness. The barista serving me rated an A+. Helpful. Friendly. Smiling. Impressive to find they use a compostable "to go" coffee container.
After fixing my coffee, I sat at a table with fresh flowers in the covered outdoor seating area. It was then I discovered that Emerald City Press has a drive through window! Wow. They have it all. Right here. So click your ruby slippers together and get here quick. "There's no place like Emerald City Press..."Listed in: Uniquely Austin
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Review from Angus C.
Austin, TX
5/15/2008
My battery died in their drive through. A barista helped me push it back, and they blocked off the entrance while the wrecker grabbed my truck to run it up to the dealer, because they wouldn't send someone to me with a new battery.
Also: best coffee I've had in town. -
Review from Marla C.
4/29/2008
Let me confess something upfront: I don't drink coffee. I probably would't have ever gone here, but I was prompted to by a coffee drinker, so I acquiesed. I ordered a chai latte with 2%, and guess what: they didn't screw it up!! In fact, it was quite fantastic! Everytime I've gotten a chai at Whole Foods, it has sucked. Starbucks has been almost as bad. Apparently, it's an easy item to eff up, but not the pros at Emeral City.
And they get bonus points for a) being a local joint, b) drive thru, c) cute, funny drive thru window attendants, d) speed of getting your order to you, and e) stealing their lids from the 7-11 next door. -
Review from Jaye J.
Austin, TX
4/2/2008
For the second time, I stopped in here on the way to work this morning. Actually, let's back that up...I drove past work, came here, got coffee, and went back to work.
Seriously, it's good coffee! Worth going out of my way for, and we have established how lazy I am, so this is high praise indeed.
In addition to coffee, they have Taco Deli tacos, Lone Star Kolaches, and more. I have only been through the drive through, but it looks like they have magazines too. And someone said they now have Affogato, which I really would like to try. As soon as this whole Yelp Biggest Loser thing is over. Dammit.
But seriously, the people here are so nice and the coffee is really good and the cups are compostable. So yay! Check it out.Listed in: Wake up, wake up...
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Review from Lisa A.
Austin, TX
4/23/2008
What a way to convert a moto-foto. Since drive-thru photo processing has gone down the digital toilet (where are my prints?) maybe they'll all be replaced with hip, airy coffee joints. We can only hope!
This spot has it all: friendly barristas, magazines (and flowers!) for sale, breakfast treats, outdoor (covered) seating, and free wi-fi. So why the four-star review? My latte was bitter. Hopefully it was just a bad pull because otherwise Emerald City Press is the complete package. -
Review from Kevin N.
4/5/2008
Clarity of vision: it's not an impossible aspiration, and it can be (and often is) the difference between a place doing reasonably well despite obvious flaws, and a place really taking off. Emerald City Press is really taking off (witness the reviews here, for one thing), and there's a very real reason why. Clarity of vision.
Equal parts comfortable vision and seemingly effortless delivery, Emerald City does a terrific job of not (pardon the pun) biting off more than they can chew: they feature a smallish if cool selection of publications, loads of veggie options like the soy latte they offered the dessert lover (she declined), and the back patio (which overlooks Shoal Creek) comes ready with flowered vases, patio seating, and several kid-sized tables for the rug rats.
It's a two story building that's been made over into a fully functioning coffee, tea and pastry bar, and the italian soda and toasted bagel I attacked this morning were just what I needed. Go on a day when the sun is shining and the shadows are in all the right places. You'll hope most folks starting something get it as right as this.Listed in: Austin Downtown, Some Austin Breakfast, Eating Healthy In Austin
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Review from Tara M.
8/5/2008
It was a Sunday morning and I should have been in Church. Instead I went for a hike with Kimberly K. and afterward I needed some frozen cold rejuvenating goodness. I heard about Emerald City Press the previous day via Michelle C. and decided to stop by...
I ordered a yummy blend of Good Flo OJ and soft serve vanilla ice cream.......
Can I get an Amen for a blended Dreamscicle? -
Review from Courtney J.
Austin, TX
11/30/2008
I'll keep this one short and sweet--just like my visit to Emerald City Press. :)
(Told ya, I'm going to Emoticon the beejeezus out of this review.)
This drive-thru coffee shop on north Lamar is just the thing that my morning commute needed: quick service, great coffee and awesome baristas that make me feel good about my caffeine addiction. :)
The drive-thru window rocks the workweek, but it plays out equally as well on slower, Saturday mornings when I'm walking my dog. The cool gals and guy at Emeralds handed me my To Go cup along with a (free) treat for the pooch. This made the pup happy. :P
If you're hungry, Emerald City Press doesn't have a ton in the way of food, but what they do have is great stuff--particularly the cinnamon rolls from Upper Crust Bakery.
The one downside (and the main reason for the -1 star) is that they've begun handing out copies of The Onion and other free mags in lieu of selling newspapers and foreign magazines (as of last visit 11/08). I assume that the magazine deal just wasn't bringing in the bucks, but there's something to be said for the added flavor that the intellectual materials gave to the small space. If magazines didn't play out, then why not celebrate local artists and host a mini, rotating exhibit in the old magazine panels.
Whether you're cruising into work or heading for Town Lake, this coffee spot is a great stop when you need good coffee on the go.Listed in: Coffeeinated in Austin…
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Review from Alexander B.
Austin, TX
4/4/2010
Emerald City Press is competing for my favorite coffee shop besides Pacha. The baristas greet me with a smile and sometimes conversation each morning I show up, usually before work. The drive through would not give you the same feel.
Try some donut hole samples from Ken's Donuts while you wait on your coffee. Get a taco from Taco Deli. The best part is that they have food from all the local places and they give it to you with a smile and personality. Coffee is almost always super hot and fresh. Great place!Listed in: Coffee Shops
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Review from Carrie W.
Denver, CO
7/15/2008
My office had run out of (good) coffee and I was in dire need of a cup and a taco yesterday.
I knew Emerald City was the closest to my office, but was still a bit hesitant. My previous experiences at other local coffee spots around town had been service with a scowl and/or weak, lackluster coffee...it had driven me to be a Starbucks regular...while I prefer to buy local, at least I knew what I was getting at Starbucks and I generally got it from a server with a good attitude.
I drove through Emerald City and was greeted with a smile! I ordered an iced coffee and a Migas taco from Tacodeli. The server was helpful, friendly and got the half and half level on my coffee just right, even asking if I needed more or less. Without even trying the coffee, they were already one step above the rest.
The iced coffee was perfect....strong, but not bitter and the flavor stood up to the melting ice over the next hour or so. It looks like I have finally found my Starbucks alternative!
My only problem is that, while close to the office, it is not a convenient stop on my way to work...not ECP's fault, but it does mean I have to make a bit of a special trip to get my morning joe.Listed in: Lunching it, Work style!
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Review from Jesse R.
Austin, TX
5/8/2008
You have to try this thing they custom made on the spot:
they mixed together Good-Flo orange juice and soft-serve ice-cream! YUMMMMM! What an amazing treat from amazing people?
TRY THE BOOMERANG PIES WITH AWESOME SAUCE. WOW, are they ever good.
And, their back patio is a great spot. I've been on some very hot days, and yet it is always shady and cool back there. -
Review from Jessica N.
Austin, TX
8/29/2009
The women of Emerald City Press are like peaches and ice cream. So sweet and so damn refreshing.
This place has become the ole' reliable. When I'm feeling rather rough around the edges still in my pj's or rushed on my way to church I know I can zip in and out with glee. Taco Deli has made a mark at this unique drive through coffee shawp with their cowboy or bean and cheese breakfast taco. Oh Taco Deli, how I love you so. Let me count the ways.... I've also grabbed a scone or two and have never been disappointed.
I think there is something with our fast paced culture that we believe we are saving THAT much time going through the drive thru. Usually for me it's the multitasking overload that I endure day in and day out. For those slow moving Austinites, I like the option to chillax at a table in the back outside. Their walk up coffee bar is dressed with local nick nacks and press. The brew is tasty too....after all, it always comes down to the coffee. -
Review from Chris M.
Austin, TX
4/22/2008
OK I feel a little dirty about this 5 star review. Why you might ask. I know the owner of Emerald City Press and just by association I feel like I should be disqualified from rating her establishment, but I always try to be fair and impartial. I gave my own mother only 4 stars, my cat gets a paltry 3.
But as much as I want to give it a lukewarm review, I gotta say this place is great. The service is fast and friendly and the coffee is awesome. I mean really awesome, easily the best coffee shop in the downtown area. I'm also really impressed with what they did with that old building.
Great job Emily ;) -
Review from Olivia G.
Austin, TX
6/11/2008
We drove through here the other day to see if it lived up to the hype. I'm pleased to say that it did. I sampled some of my husband's iced coffee and it was spectacular. I never thought I'd say that about a plain old iced coffee, but it was freakin' GOOD.
Love the location, the decor, the whole shebang and I'm looking forward to going back to try some of their other offerings. -
Review from Olivia P.
Austin, TX
2/15/2009
I had been meaning to try Emerald City Press for such a long time. A couple of months ago, one of my best friends moved here, and the first day he was in town, I got my chance. We were on a driving tour of Austin, but we needed some fuel. Coming from the South and headed toward Hyde Park, Emerald City Press was as convenient as anything could be. It was a chilly day, and our beverages were perfect. They were prepared with speed, precision, and obvious care, and they were delicious.
We met the owner (Emily?) and she was incredibly nice to us, gave us free cozies and had a long talk about the joys and perils of starting your own business. I love how sweet and European sidewalk cafe Emerald City Press feels. I do so hope they get the chance to set up their patio out back...I would stop on my bicycle (hint, hint, I wouldn't need a parking space, City of Austin) on my way home from work and watch evening descend on this city I am growing to love...
I'm getting sentimental. Point being, Emerald City Press is lovely, and the espresso is delicious. -
Review from David G.
Seattle, WA
3/4/2008
Drive-through coffee shop & news stand. Awesome. They officially opened yesterday. We've been driving by for months, not knowing what the hell this place was. Publishing house? Dry cleaner? Nope, coffee place.
They said that they hope to have the outdoor seating and back yard patio open by this weekend. And they're gonna have shows going on during SXSW.
First review. Gimme money. -
Review from Frances L.
Brooklyn, NY
4/13/2010
Impeccable service.
No obnoxiously placed tip jar.
No bees flying around the milk and creamers. (cough cough, Jo's). Drive-thru is an amazing concept ... and they even tell you how to navigate safely if you're afraid to make an unprotected left turn after getting your coffee!
Finally ... they're obviously smarter than the rest, having caught onto using Groupon to increase clientele. Genius!
My only criticism is that I wish they were open longer, so I could get it whenever I wanted! -
Review from Dean K.
Austin, TX
8/7/2008
What a great experience on my first try. Was driving up Lamar and saw it for the first time today. Pulled one of my patented u turns (perfected in the mean streets of Boston) and gave the drive thru a try. Really hard to come to grips that this location used to be an uninspiring Ritz camera location. I did not have to wait long before a cheery girl appeared in the window and took my order with a smile. She gave me a recommendation that the cold pressed iced coffee was "a specialty" and I took her for her word. Glad I did cause it was great, and as always, everything tastes better when it's served with care and a smile.
Thanks Emerald City, I will be back for more.
Enjoy! -
Review from Mr G.
TX
4/3/2008
...what can I say? The coffee is outstanding, place is cool, and the people are friendly-ish. Not annoyingly friendly .... juuust right. Here's the breakdown....
First Time (Walk-up): Coffee/Excellent, Service/Good (it was their 2nd day)
Second Time (Drive-thru): Coffee/Excellent, Service/Great
Third Time (Walk-up): Coffee/Excellent, Service/Excellent, Overall/Excellent
Today I sat in the new little underhung patio with fuzz above me threatening to fall into my open cup of coffee. I don't really think it's asbestos, but my friend did. It was an awesome day .. i wonder how user-friendly that place will be in the heat of summer?
I also embarrassed myself today by grabbing a magazine at the counter, thinking it was a 'reader' versus being for sale .. busted. -
Review from Victor W.
4/18/2009
I love the setup. This is what a coffee joint should be. In and out - get your crap and get on your way.
Not commercial like Starbucks - not pretentious/or a freaking library for kids.
Simply - its a hip, convenient place with a great view whether you sit in the front of the back -
Review from luke g.
Austin, TX
1/3/2009
single-shot espresso - one of the worst coffees ever. It was sour and bitter, couldn't get more than three sips down. No patio, either, just one table and some very small chairs.
Everybody else gave it glowing reviews, so I may try it again, but there are plenty of other great spots to try first. -
Review from Emily H.
TX
7/14/2008
Not much can be said about ECP that others have not said.
It is pretty much amazing.
Highlights-
1. Best iced coffee in the downtown area.
2. Tons of delicious treats.
3. Tacodeli tacos!!!!!
4. Soft serve w/ a shot of espresso and chocolate syrup on top. That stuff is like crack.
5. They give a neighbor discount if you work around there. They know my coworkers and I so well now that they always give us little treats and fake roses with our coffee order.
Best place ever. All the employees rock and they are super fun. -
Review from Andrew G.
Austin, TX
7/9/2010 1 Check-in Here
My review's not needed here, but I'm a gonna post anyways....
Friendly people, great coffee.... and super cool building and set up! I love this place....
I don't get here often.... very frankly it's only been on my way home - unkempt - after a night at my significant other's place.... their drive-through was especially appreciated these mornings with my hair going every which way and still wearing yesterday's clothes.... -
Review from Staci L.
Austin, TX
6/9/2010 6 Check-ins Here
This joint is not far from my house and I drive by it almost every day. I enjoy the coffee and the tacodeli tacos they sell but the friendly staff always makes me smile.
particulary like the fact it has a drive-thru -
Review from Rick G.
Austin, TX
6/7/2008
I drive north on Lamar every day on the way to UT and had seen that this place was now open. Based on the reviews here, I stopped there Friday morning. It was everything good that the previous reviewers noted.
I had hoped for a sausage kolache or bacon & egg taco, but their vegetarian varieties are probably much better for me. When I have time to stop and dawdle on a weekend morning, I'll try out their back yard. -
Review from Jeff C.
Austin, TX
4/12/2010
Finally decided to try this after reading the great reviews. The first time I ordered a double mocha and was a bit surprised when they said it would be $5.14 (more than what is advertised on their website....even taking tax into account). It was very week and not very creamy. I decided to give them a 2nd try this morning. Ordered the same thing. It was a bit better today but it really just tastes like Starbucks......very weak and not creamy. I am very surprised based on the other reviews I have seen here. I think most people around here are conditioned to think that Starbucks is how espresso drinks should taste. I would suggest a quick trip to Seattle where there are locally owned drive through coffee shops on every corner and almost all turn out creamy and flavorful espresso drinks.
I still can't over the fact that I was charged $5.14 for a DOUBLE mocha!!!! If anyone is in the area then I would cut over to Cafe Medici for a better (and cheaper) espresso drink. -
Review from Liz B.
Austin, TX
7/11/2008
Great iced vanilla latte! The espresso has a great flavor, strong but not overly bitter.
They were a little slow the morning I went (I was the only one at the walk-up stand, and there was only one car in the drivethru) but it was definitely worth the wait! -
Review from emily R.
Austin, TX
8/13/2010
Being a black coffee drinking kind of gal, I can be a bit particular when it comes to my coffee. I've found that I prefer a strong brewed medium roast, for what it's worth. I LOVE the straight up black coffee here! It is so good and I know my day is going to improve after drinking it. Plus, bring your own mug and it's only $1! Now if I could just remember my mug more often...
The only reason I am giving this 4 stars and not 5 is that for the other fancy drinks, that I don't drink, it's pretty expensive. I know this because when it is my turn to treat my coworker to coffee, I leave spending $6 and scratching my head a bit. -
Review from Steve O.
Austin, TX
6/19/2008
I really like the staff and the atmosphere, and most importantly the coffee. I'm not really a big fan of iced coffee, but I gave them a shot and it may very well be the best iced I've ever had.
-1 star for the wait for the drivethru. There was only one car in front of me and it took 20 minutes for me to get to the front. Next time I'll go inside, or at least I'll be mentally prepared for a long wait. -
Review from kristen t.
Austin, TX
5/18/2008
On my way to work every morning I make a stop at Emerald City Press.
I roll up to the drive through at about 7:05ish, baseball cap pulled real low and roll down my window.
My cheerful coffee guy (we have built up a rapport. I need to ask his name.) slides open the glass between us and says good morning..-insert friendly morning speak-. I smile and struggle to
coherently get out "americano, bagel and orange juice please." He, with a smile confirms that I want 3 shots of espresso (sometimes it is 4), no room for cream and my bagel toasted and then gets to work! He is always so happy and chipper and makes me smile just as much as the coffee and the goodflow OJ.
I can't be the chipper until 10am. no way, no how.
One day last week he brought me my coffee shot of espresso in hand and we cheers the impending day.... through a drive through!
When is the last time a starbuck drone did that? Not that I don't like SB, they have kick ass, not made by human hands (seriously, and not in a necessarily good way) cinnamon swirl coffee cake. But they have gotten my very simple order of espresso and water with no room for cream no sugar no nothing wrong a surprising number of times. And it is not fun to open the bag ready for moist low fat cinnamon goodness to fine fucking blueberry coffee cake. Blueberry's don't belong in coffee cake.
And the coffee at Emerald City Press tastes good. Not burnt. Not frou frou or prentecious. Just good coffee. 4 shots of bad espresso can really screw up a girls stomach. But not this stuff, this stuff is awesome.
And 8$ is not bad for a breakfast of coffee, bagel and juice.
Soooo I look forward to seeing my soon to be named coffee guy tomorrow morning.... grrr at 7am, unless I am late.
peace out.
k -
Review from Jonathan D.
Austin, TX
7/22/2009
So, after hearing so much hype about this place, I decided since I was in the area to give it a go. And I have to say, not what I was expecting.
The vibe was excellent, friendly staff, great looking shop, and a pretty straightforward menu. None of that chalkboardy mumbleing maze of items. Appreciated.
I ordered an espresso and some soft serve. The soft serve was pretty tasty, nothing spectacular, but pretty darn good for sitting out back and staring at the woods while cooling down in the shade.
At most places in Austin, the espresso they serve makes me gag. Literally gag. Here, it was palatable. Not great, but drinkable. They have a brand new Nuovo Simonelli and a Swift Grinder . . . i.e., push a button to make a shot, but I digress. They use Katz's Coffee (no relation to the restaurant) and that is a big no no in my book. Katz is the lowest quality, cheapest, dirtiest, most darkly roasted schlock this side of the Mississippi. Change your roaster Emerald City Press, and I will be coming back.
