There are an estimated 1 billion people who regularly drink coffee across the globe. From French press coffees to frappés, it seems that there is a type of roasted caffeine for everyone nowadays. Hot or iced, black or with creamer, coffee has become an everyday luxury for a range of consumers.
It’s safe to assume that most coffee drinkers are aware of the dominating and far-reaching presence of the world’s most popular coffee chain, Starbucks. The company’s numerous storefronts offer a wide selection of coffee beverages with different styles, flavors and toppings. As tempting as it may be to stick to the ease and comfort of the nearest Starbucks, it can be just as — if not more — rewarding to pour your money into an equally remarkable local coffee shop.
Coffee lovers worldwide may very well be open to this change. After all, it feels gratifying to give money to small businesses rather than large chains and thereby support the dreams and livelihoods of fellow community members. The problem is, it can be hard to know where to start your search for the best coffee spots in your area and ensure that their quality matches that of the closest Starbucks.
From one coffee lover to another, follow these three steps to make the switch to a local coffee shop.
1. Research
The most essential yet challenging step to finding the local coffee spot that best fits your vibe and taste buds is research. Luckily, the 21st century has equipped most people with a basic grasp of Google. Sometimes, just typing “small coffee shops near me” into the search bar will provide you with a slew of results that lead directly to stores’ websites. There may even be an article that lists the best local coffee shops in your area. Either way, you’ll have enough information to decide which places you want to try.
Some factors to think about when evaluating a store’s site are ambiance (which you may be able to glean from photos) and menu options (Does it have your favorite flavor or any specialty beverages? Are you the kind of person who requires a scone with your coffee?). In terms of practicality, you should also consider the shop’s location (How long of a drive or walk lies ahead?) and hours of operation (Can you get your joe before you need to be at work?). You could even take the company’s mission and values into account (Does this shop have a special cause or charity that its proceeds support? Do your beliefs align with the shop’s?).
Asking people who share your passion for coffee for their opinions could be equally useful. Maybe their go-to joints will become yours. If not, they can still provide lists of places they’ve tried that may interest you. Whichever way you choose to approach your cup-of-joe journey, be sure that your research is thorough and will prepare you for what’s in store.
2. Figure Out a Go-To Order
Another helpful part of the preparation process is determining your order prior to your arrival. Establish your choices as you research the menu. Some find that the best way to assess the quality of a shop’s coffee is to order the same type of drink every time. If you only ever plan to buy the same exact beverage, especially one that’s on the more basic side, then comparing each company’s distinct take on one drink could be the key to finding the perfect local coffee shop.
However, those with more diverse palates may shudder at the idea of picking just one drink to satisfy their coffee needs. If this is you, it might be beneficial to play to each coffee shop’s individual strengths. Typically, a small coffee shop will have at least one notable concoction of its own. You could potentially find a new favorite drink if you decide to try each coffee shop’s specialty beverage. More often than not, original menu items boast select flavors that any coffee aficionado will find delightful.
Baked goods are somewhat of a toss-up. Though you’d expect all coffee shops to have a lovely little cinnamon roll or blueberry muffin to pair with your drink, great coffee unfortunately does not guarantee delicious pastries. However, if you’re the kind of person who needs something to nibble at while downing your java, it’s important to consider the quality of each local coffee shop’s confections during your online search. Every shop sells different food items, so it’s practical to remain open-minded in your pursuit of the best baked goods in your area.
3. Execute Your Plans
You’ve done the dirty work — now it’s time for the fun part! Type the coffee shop’s address into your mapping software and begin the physical adventure. This part of the quest can also be valuable in determining your favorite spot. Is the drive or walk to the location manageable? Does parking prove to be a nightmare? These components are crucial to some people’s coffee journeys. After all, the anticipation on the ride over shapes the entire experience.
When you reach your first destination, assess your surroundings. Were the photos accurate? Does the menu appear slightly different? Gauging the validity of your research will serve you in judging and improving your approach to procuring the perfect cup.
Each shop you visit is a case of trial and error. You might like some things about what a shop has to offer, but not others. That’s why it’s smart to have a variety of predetermined local coffee options. Span your coffee spree over a few days or a few weeks, depending on your budget and habits. And even if you find a place that seems to meet all your expectations, give the remaining alternatives a chance. Who knows — they might have beverages, baked goods or atmospheres that will change your coffee mindset forever.
Some coffee drinkers might prefer to find one singular spot that they hit up for their daily caffeine fixes. Others might deem multiple locations worthy of their time and money. Either way, there is most certainly a local cafe capable of satisfying your coffee cravings. You just have to look.
