Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Steve H on April 10, 2008 at 9:44am

I try to tell and bring friends to the coffee shops that promote great coffee and great coffee making. Once they try the coffee and the espresso, they're usually hooked - and then they tell their friends...

Permalink Reply by Shawn on April 14, 2008 at 4:28pm

I'm kinda thinking out loud here so please bare with me as I ramble... My perception is that the Twin Cities are dominated by the Chains, which ain't a terrible thing IMO. For evidence, check out this link off the SCAA trades how page which provides a map of "local" coffee shops:

http://conference.scaa.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=vi...

As our independent community grows I'd like to see something along the lines of a co-op whose purpose is to raise the bar quality-wise through training, educating, and "jamming" (thank you, Kevin) WHILE promoting the independent coffee scene.

Of course, these are merely thoughts. I'm not quite certain if I have the time (or knowledge) it requires to take action... though I can take Steve H's advice and bring a friend to my favorite joints.

Permalink Reply by keith on September 25, 2008 at 5:47pm

Minneapolis is great in the fact that it has quite an array of independent shops.

The unfortunate problem with this is that I can actually get a more consistent, and in cases better beverage/product from one of the chain stores..

This makes me sad.

It'd be nice to unite Minneapolis' baristas and have latte art sessions/throw downs.

we should talk to some of the shops. and see if they're interested?
or interested in hosting...
i.e. Kopplins/Black Sheep/Common Roots

Permalink Reply by keith on September 25, 2008 at 5:48pm

I'd be really interested to meet Baristas in the Minneapolis area on a level ground instead of in there shop feeling uncomfortable and not wanting to tell them what to do.

Or in my shop having them tell me what to do..