Looking for the very best espresso in Austin was no straightforward process. Certain, the journey was scrumptious, but it surely took robust deliberation and evaluation to find out which Austin espresso store was definitely worth the cease.
You see, our nice metropolis of Austin could be recognized for its deep love of breakfast tacos, however espresso doesn’t fall too far behind. That is apparent with the variety of espresso retailers sprouting up throughout the town, each with die-hard prospects utilizing daring statements to justify their favourite spot. Some Austinites desire a espresso home as a result of they provide each mild and darkish roasts and make the froth on their latte sit good. Others return to a different roaster as a result of they’ve ample room for working in your laptop computer, flipping by a superb guide or utilizing elaborate hand gestures when catching up with associates. However which store had the very best espresso?
Right here at Defend America, we took it upon ourselves to reply this very urgent query for you. Just like our breakfast tacos mission, we despatched one other group of courageous, devoted and decaffeinated group members (Emily and Sarah) out into the wild. Their mission was, once more, fairly easy. Go style the espresso and return with a victor.
For the sake of science, Emily and Sarah every ordered the identical drink at every coffeehouse. Emily’s beverage of selection was a vanilla latte whereas Sarah switched issues up a tiny bit with an iced vanilla latte.
Epoch Espresso Austin
“They’ve the very best chai tea lattes in all of Austin.”
-Bruce B
The group’s first cease was Epoch Espresso on North Loop. (Be aware: Epoch is definitely pronounced /ˈepik/)
This store might need been tucked inside a strip plaza, but it surely definitely stood out due to the massive steel letters on its roof that resembled miscellaneous trinkets one would possibly discover at a storage sale. Naturally, these letters spelled out Epoch.
The espresso roaster additionally had a big picket outside patio the place clusters of individuals sat round tables with laptops, binders, highlighters and cups full of espresso.
Epoch’s inside was inviting and heat due to the massive home windows, funky furnishings and distinctive music vibrating from the audio system. It was these touches that made our cease at Epoch really feel like we have been inside a buddy’s house fairly than a espresso roaster.
And now let’s discuss concerning the espresso. Whereas the menu had rather a lot to supply (together with a big glass show sales space showcasing each pastry one’s coronary heart might need) the group caught to their vanilla lattes. Brownie factors have been instantly added when Emily observed her drink had latte artwork.
Remaining Verdict:
“My first sip was unimaginable. That is truthfully the most effective vanilla lattes I’ve ever had.” Emily
“I actually just like the flavors general. It wasn’t too candy and it wasn’t too bitter.” Sarah
Why You Ought to Go Right here
Vacationers and locals alike will recognize Epoch for its cozy and welcoming atmosphere. You could possibly simply spend half a day getting work accomplished or catching up with associates on the store. And it appears the house owners know this, contemplating the North Loop location leaves its doorways open 24/7 and has free Wi-Fi. Epoch can also be canine pleasant, so don’t be afraid to convey your furry companion alongside for the trip.
Houndstooth Espresso Austin
“They’ve a caramel macchiato that I completely love.”
–Ciera D.
Houndstooth Espresso is nothing like Epoch. Certain, each roasters have been tucked inside plazas, however Houndstooth was smooth and glossy and dripping with minimalism. Its baristas stood behind shiny black counter tops whereas brewing beans from a big, fancy espresso machine.
One other key distinction was Houndstooth’s menu. It lacked the expansiveness of Epoch’s, selecting to as a substitute deal with the classics. Houndstooth additionally wasn’t practically as huge as Epoch, making it seem to be the kind of roaster you pop into earlier than working errands. There was a way of openness to the atmosphere, making it straightforward to survey the espresso bar and see in case your drink is prepared.
Remaining Verdict:
“I’m impressed, however I nonetheless suppose Epoch was just a bit bit increased on my chart.” Emily
“I really feel just like the flavors of Houndstooth Espresso are rather a lot stronger than Epoch’s.” Sarah
Why You Ought to Go Right here
We’re satisfied Houndstooth is designed for the on-the-go shopper. The kind of customer who doesn’t have time to sit down down and get snug (though you definitely might right here). So if standing is extra your factor, you’ll get pleasure from Houndstooth’s service space that allows you to watch the barista’s brew and elegance your espresso. Houndstooth additionally has free Wi-Fi so, sure, you possibly can examine your e-mail whilst you wait.
Cherrywood Coffeehouse
“They’ve cats working round. So you possibly can go play with cats and drink your espresso.”
-Amanda
Cherrywood Coffeehouse is the cool and comfortable neighborhood store that embodies Austin’s eclecticism. As quickly as you step inside, you possibly can’t assist however discover its daring, round lantern lighting fixtures dispersed throughout the ceiling. The coffeehouse has quite a lot of seating choices for patrons to select from, too. One sits in entrance of the lengthy espresso bar whereas the opposite is tucked to the aspect to please these trying to find solitude and quiet.
We, nevertheless, sipped our espresso exterior on the spacious yard patio. This was largely as a result of the group wished to see the cats our group member, Amanda, spoke of. Sadly, we couldn’t discover a single cat.
However on with the espresso!
Out of the three espresso retailers, Cherrywood’s menu made it essentially the most troublesome to stay to vanilla lattes. Their menu is for the experimental shopper who enjoys making an attempt totally different syrups and occasional drinks. Nevertheless, their tackle the basic vanilla latte didn’t disappoint.
Remaining Verdict:
“I’ve by no means been to a spot like Cherrywood. It’s very open they usually have a lot extra to supply than simply superior espresso. Their vanilla latte is tremendous good.” Emily
“I appreciated my iced vanilla latte. The flavour was fairly robust but it surely additionally had good candy, creamy vanilla undertones. I additionally love how enjoyable and charming this store is. It will make for a terrific weekend go to.” Sarah
Why You Ought to Go Right here
The cool factor about Cherrywood Coffeehouse is that it affords extra than simply espresso and pastries. That’s proper, Cherrywood’s meals selection can simply rival your favourite Austin lunch cease. Mix this with their dog-friendly coverage, free Wi-Fi and 24/7 hours of operation, Cherrywood instantly turns into the coffeehouse you’ll by no means wish to depart.
Conclusion
Espresso is a scrumptious must-have for a lot of in Austin. The beverage retains us going and able to seize the day, but it surely’s additionally ingrained in our metropolis’s tradition. Nevertheless, after three cups every, each Emily and Sarah have been able to deliberate and decide who had the very best espresso in Austin.
Whereas every coffeehouse introduced one thing distinctive to the desk, each group members couldn’t cease considering of the inviting heat from their first cease that morning at Epoch Espresso.
Epoch checked off all the packing containers. From an inviting and spacious ambiance to a pleasant employees, thrilling menu choices and flavorful espresso, this store had all of it.
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