Whether you’re looking for a great coffee or a place to relax and unwind, you’ll find something you’ll love at a local coffee shop. You can also learn a little more about the different types of coffee, including Kopi teams and Iced coffee.
Locally owned
Unlike chain coffee shops, local coffee houses can attract customers with their unique offerings. They may offer local baked goods, music, and science-based brews. These establishments also tend to be more informative.
One local coffee shop in particular has been around for years. Roast Magazine has recognized this artisan roaster for its micro coffee brewing feats.
A Hill of Beans Coffee Roasters sources ethically sourced coffee beans from around the globe. They hand-roast their beans and distribute them to local businesses. In addition to specialty coffee drinks, the shop has a small selection of teas and homemade baked goods.
This locally owned coffee shop has a few locations, including one on Manhattan’s Lower East Side and another in Brooklyn. It also has a new place in Fresno. Manhattan’s Lower East Side site has a chic interior and spacious patio.
Third-wave shops
Unlike Starbucks, third-wave coffee shops focus on artisanal coffee production and serving the perfect cup. They also focus on social responsibility, using direct trade practices and sourcing beans from coffee farmers worldwide.
These coffee shops are also known for their beautiful design and friendly staff. Many have a wide variety of coffees to choose from. You can also find hot and iced lattes, frappes, and cold brews.
The third wave coffee movement began in the US in the early 2000s. It arose from a reaction against the popularity of Starbucks Frappuccino and its mass-marketed pre-ground coffee. Rather than relying on a middleman merchant to source beans, third-wave coffee roasters work directly with coffee farmers to ensure that farmers are paid fairly for their labor.
Kopi teams
A Kopitiam is a coffee shop run by the local Chinese community. This is a place where you can find a simple breakfast, which is typically a cup of coffee or char kway tiao, or a soft-boiled egg.
There are different types of kopitiams. The older generation will have their Kopitiam, and the younger generation will open new ones.
Most of the newer kopitiams serve fast food, and are aimed at young adults. But you can also find a few traditional kopitiams in Singapore. Some of these are located in hawker centers, which are often populated with food stalls that sell a wide variety of beverages.
You can also find a Kopitiam on the first floor of a government-built apartment complex. The kopitiams in these areas are often open-air. They are also typically run by the owner, who serves coffee or tea. They also sell traditional Southeast Asian food from different ethnicities.
Iced coffee
Whether on the go or at home, iced coffee is a delicious way to start the day. It can be served in various flavors, including chocolate, raspberry, coconut, vanilla, and white chocolate. It is also a popular drink during the hot summer months.
Iced coffees can be made with various ingredients, including coffee, milk, ice, and sugar. There are also several unique flavoring syrups available.
Most coffee shops offer iced coffee, but the options vary. They may serve the coffee in a glass or a to-go cup. They may also have an iced drink menu separate from the regular drinks menu. You should ask to see the options available.
Iced coffee is typically made from a shot of espresso. If you’re looking for something more substantial, you can opt for a double shot. Adding milk to iced coffee can help cut the bitterness. Many coffee shops offer milk alternatives, such as soymilk or almond milk.
Locations
Choosing the best locations for coffee shops is a multi-dimensional task. One has to consider factors such as the cost of living, traffic, accessibility, and quality of the coffee.
The most successful coffee shops tend to be found near public institutions, such as schools and hospitals. The average commuter is willing to walk a few blocks for a good cup of coffee in the morning. The most successful of these locations also fetch higher rents.
It’s also worth noting that while the coffee and tea industries are small, they represent an essential sector of the economy. As with any industry, competition is rife. In the coffee biz, the savvy entrepreneur will look for the next big thing. Whether a single-unit microbrewery or a posh office tower, the right location will pay off handsomely in the long run.
