Looking back over the past 10+ years it’s amazing how much of a coffee based country the US has turned out to be.  There are those that will say we are not a coffee country but more of a “fast food – triple foamy, extra sweet” country and I can’t say that I disagree with that sentiment.  Me personally I love coffee.  Strong, rich, flavorful coffee.  I grew up with European influences so I’ve never been a fan of the lighter stuff.  American coffee tends to be down the middle while I lean more to the stronger side.

So where can you get a coffee?  McDonalds and their new flavor?  The local coffee shop/greasy spoon?  Starbucks?  Caribou?  Seattle’s Best?  Starbucks has been on a steady path to the center of things for a long time now.  They are simply over priced for what you get and what you get isn’t all that great anymore.  Have your ever ordered a Capuccino and expected to get a nice thick foam top only to recieve this frothy thing that dissolves by the team you walk from the counter to your seat?  Caribou, to me, is step above Starbucks; at least they take the time to make a decent cup.  SBC has long left town here but I was never to excited about them.  McDonalds… well it’s McDonalds and if you polish a turd it’s still a turd.

So where can someone who loves coffee and wants to go to real shop with real pastries go?  If you are lucky enough, and I am, you can go to Lavazza.  It’s Italian owned and operated and to me it’s the closest thing to sitting in a coffee shop in Europe.  The coffee is robust and they make their drinks as they should be.  Espressos have that thin brown layer of froth, and their  Cappucinos have a rich, thick, velvety foam topping.  This is how coffee should be made.

I have no idea where Lavazza’s gets their pastries but they are fantastic!  A croissant that is perfect and  buttery inside with an outside layer that is crisp and stands up to the “hit it with a spoon” test.  I’ve had a raisin danish that is so rich and moist it’s almost like eating a raisin bread pudding.  Gelatos, pies, and all the other expected sides are their and they all look great.

I know there are Lavazzas here in Chicago and in New York; if you happen to see one make it a point to stop inside – you won’t be disappointed.