Being from New Orleans and loving my city with every last breath it hurts to hear that people judge our coffee culture based on Chicory. Yes we do drink it, yes I was raised on it and yes it tastes like burnt plastic. But you know what, it's a part of our culture as a city and I don't hate on your city based on something unique to your home. As a professional barista in New Orleans, I see that baristas here are trying to get up to speed with the rest of the nation on bean quality, a perfect shot, latte' art etc. It's taking time and a few hardcore coffee geeks to train the rest of the city to be just as good as anyone else.

So, in closing please look at New Orleans and its coffee culture by more than Chicory. We have the nicest baristas who are willing to let you know about their city, amazing conversation at local shops and the most eclectic blend of atmospheres anywhere.

Drew

p.s. Coffee and Chicory with a beignet at 4 a.m. Can't beat it.