Peace, Love, and Foundation Grounds

Foundation Grounds
7298 Manchester Rd
Maplewood, MO. 63143
314.601.3588
www.foundationgrounds.com


Located on the corner of Manchester and Marshall lies the earth friendly, all-organic, respite for the environment conscious coffee consumer. Foundation Grounds encompasses a love for coffee and food paired with a dedication to preserving mother earth.  All ingredients used here are local and organic, from the bread and cheese to the coffee brewed (Goshen Coffee). The food menu boasts such flavorful options as the "MapleGood Tuna" sandwhich, Vegan Tempeh salad, as well as grilled quesadillas and a case stocked full of vegan friendly desserts. Upon entering this cozy conservator you'll notice colorful renderings by local artists and a beautiful blue tree mural in the corner.  All of the tables are bamboo and the mismatched chairs are upholstered in recycled cloth. Foundation is proud of its earth conscious efforts and even supports the Missouri Wind Energy effort by actively reducing it's carbon emissions. For a local taste of a global movement make sure you head down to Foundation Grounds, you might just save a child in Africa while you're here.

Below you will find our ratings of Foundation Grounds based on a scale of 1-10:

COFFEE: 7 - We thought it was great that they served organic coffee but the taste was "nothing special."  Although we heard to order the ice coffee because they use coffee icecubes so the coffee never gets watered down. We seem to be unsure of the focus, coffee or food. The name denotes the focus is on coffee but upon entering you see that the focus is food due to the prominant food menu and bakery case.  The coffee menu has a less than prominant display and no specialty drinks are listed.

FOOD: 9 - We like that they have interesting flavor combinations, all the ingrediencts are organic. They even have a great variety of Vegan friendly desserts. It was "high- class" organic food, not your typicall "granola organic" establishment.

ATMOSPHERE: 8 - Cozy, intimate, earthy, doesn't take itself to seriously, mismatched chairs. A little world within itself when you walk in the doors, that will surely make you want to take off your shoes and show a little love.

PRICES: 7.5 - It is expensive for the area but understandable because of the organic costs. The coffee is reasonable.

PARKING: 4 - Parking is off street, many parking lots nearby will not let you park in their lots which are just for that specfic business's clients or employees. There are local "Maplewood" lots which you can park in but you might have to walk a few blocks. (We all need to walk a little..com'on...we're Americans..the fattest country in the world.)


BROWNIE POINTS: 4 - The Vegan brownie is wonderful. Very laid back atmosphere. Everything is local from food to employees. Bamboo tables and recycled chairs.


OVERALL: 7.5

Kacy says: "At Foundation Grounds! Very earthy!! very hippie, very organic!! Eating here I feel like I am saving kids in Africa while saving the whales in the Atlantic, due to all the orangicness of this place.. The music is great too."

Ashlee says: "Though the overall theme of Foundation Grounds doesnt seem to match it's Maplewood surroundings, I think it's a great addition.  For a nation that is ever looking to conserve and find new ways of producing, Foundation functions as the perfect example of how a daily pleasure can contribute to this goal.  Stop in for a break from the norm!"

A little piece of Europe in your backyard - Nadoz Euro Bakery and Cafe

Nadoz Euro Bakery and Cafe                                                                
@ The Boulevard
#12 The Boulevard
Richmond Heights, MO. 63117
314.726.3100
www.nadozcafe.com                






The moment you walk in to Nadoz you are transported from the busy St. Louis metro into a relaxed, refined, Europian experience for the senses. Nestled in the middle of The Boulevard amongst premier shopping and dinning, you'll find the perfect excuse to enjoy an exclusive latte creation or decadent dessert offering. Nadoz is not your average coffee shop but would fall under what we call "upscale but affordable".  You will not be charged a fee to enjoy the scents and sounds nor will you pay exhorbitent amounts for your favorite brew. The warm and inviting ambiance is set off by earth tones, exquisite art, and unique seating options (not just typical tables, but also fun and funky booths and chairs).  For those of you desiring the full patiserie experience, cafe tables and chairs are available outside for your transportation to a streetside cafe in Pari! Their menu is flowing with flavorful breakfast options (served all day!) like fresh fruit crepes, housemade granola, and paninis as well as lunch and dinner fare of unique salads, hot paninis, and buckwheat savory crepes.  For those of you looking for low cal options, they also offer a "Fit 4 U" menu with a great selection of items all under 370 calories! Once you have chosen the perfect culinary creation, you are presented with a plethora of steamy, caffienated, satisfiers.  Latte lover? They offer over 10 specialty options like "The Monkey" (banana and mocha) and "Cinnabon" (cinnamon, caramel, and more), as well as the ability to create your own masterpeice with a variety of syrups.  Also available are luscious mochas, chai teas, smoothies, and freshly brewed regular blends (for those looking for a great basic cup of joe).
Unlike anything in the St. Louis area, Nadoz effortlessly fuses old world European charm with present day coffee culture. Make Nadoz your next stop for a local getaway!

 

For this edition of Java Journeys we were honored to have special guest, Harry Walls IV, with us to help with the review.  Harry is the distinguished "Mayor" of Nadoz (on foursquare) :)

Below you will find our ratings, ranging from 1-10, in 5 catagories:

FOOD: 10 - Kacy ordered a fresh fruit tart, while Ashlee enjoyed a savory "Acropolis Crepe" which featured all of the best flavors of Greece.  Both food offerings were flavorful and fairly priced.  We were incredibly impressed with the selection of entrees, desserts, and artsy confectionaries. In addition, the "Fit for U" menu is the first we've seen in our journeys and we feel it is a great way to reach out to the health conscious demographic!

COFFEE: 10 - Kacy got the "Raspberry Truffle" latte which is their delicate mix of raspberries and mocha. Ashlee enjoyed the "Black Forest" which is a smooth, dark mix of blackberry and mocha. Our guest Harry ordered the "Milky Way" which is a mix of carmel and mocha. We all loved the coffee! It was smooth and had the perfect balance of flavor and sweetness.  The options for flavor are endless here, but we appreciated that the true flavor of the coffee was NOT overpowered by additions within it.


ATMOSPHERE: 9 - The only reason we rated this a 9 was due to the internet connection that we experienced while there.  It was very spotty and, surprisingly blocked both social networking and blogging sites. We actually tried to write our blog on-site and could not due to the blockage on the blogs. It is unfortunate that they block such sites that seem to be the growing trend in communication in our culture. We also noticed that there is a lack of power outlets to connect to while working via laptop. Other than that this establishment deserves a ten. It's colors and decor are crisp and classy.  It would make the perfect place for a first date, girl's day out, or business meeting. Nadoz also has a separate wine bar, which is a huge plus after a long day with work and the kids or as the perfect ending to an evening out!

PRICES: 8.5 - We found it interesting that they chose not to base their prices on their location, which is a huge plus! They could easily charge more based on the demographic that The Boulevard generally services, but they make their menu accessible to everyone. Meal options are fairly priced between $4.25 and $10.50 while coffees range from $2.25 - $4.50.  Afforadable decadence!

PARKING: 10 - The Boulevard offers plenty of parking, both covered and uncovered, and its free!


BROWNIE POINTS: 4 - Their location is very inviting. They sell their coffee bagged for your enjoyment at home, and do offer Fair Trade brews. Also, a great variety of music creates a peaceful atmosphere. Finally, we loved that their service was prompt and friendly!  All of the employees seemed to genuinely enjoy what they were doing and were eager to invite the patrons in to enjoy as well.

OVERALL: 10

Kacy says: "I have never been to Europe but when I stepped inside this establishment I felt as if I was in a European bakery. The atmosphere is wonderful and the desserts look delicate and delightful. This European excellence makes me want to actually to take a trip! Come visit this unique coffee shop, you will not be disappointed!"

Ashlee says: "What a pleasant surprise!  I love the feel that Nadoz has created in the heart of Richmond Heights.  Despite the normally busy surroundings of this area, I found myself feeling almost transported to a more relaxed pace simply upon entering.  The affordable gourmet options endear my inner culinary geek even further to this unique establishment. Do yourself a favor and skip the usual coffee stop today and head down to Nadoz, you WONT regret it!"

Harry's Corner:

Harry also liked this location is close to the Galleria, making a quick shopping trip easy!  He also mentioned appreciating the variety of options available on the menu and being able to have something different every time he visits.

Thanks to Harry for joining us!

What the Tiki? - Wired Coffee

Wired Coffee
3860 S. Lindbergh Blvd.
Sunset Hills, MO. 63127
314.843.8383
www.WiredCoffee.net   

Blink and you just might miss it but look carefully and you'll find what could be one of the more eclectic and mixed thematic coffee houses in the area. Their mission statement, which can be found on their coffee collars, brochures, and prominently displayed mural in the entryway, states "Rules be damned: Do the right thing", which could explain the mixed decor and seemingly "psychadelic tiki" theme you'll quickly discover upon walk in.  Hidden in a strip mall of medical and other businesses, Wired sits tucked into a back corner just waiting to be discovered. Hardwood floors and brightly colored walls invite the customer in to enjoy such coffee delights as mochas, lattes, and seasonal weekly features (Cadburry Egg Frappe, Marshmellow Egg Mocha, April Showers Macchiato).  Also on the menu? Fresh fruit smoothies, breakfast and lunch offerings, and not to be missed is the 12 variety selection of fresh gelato! With ample seating available at tables, overstuffed couches, leather arm chairs, and even a glassed off meeting room, Wired could serve as a great location for your next study group or business meeting.

Below you will find our ratings 5 categories ranging from 1-10:


FOOD: 7 - Ashlee was the only one to order food, which was the white chocolate raspberry scone. They had unique baked goods and a great variety of gelato, which is fantastic! We thought that they should make the food menu more visable due to that fact that depending on how you walk in to the establishment you can totally miss the food menu. There is a lack of prices on their brochure, making ordering difficult when using their complimentary curbside service (Available by phone, more info on website).

COFFEE: 6 - Good variety of flavors. Kacy got an "almond and vanilla" latte and Ashlee got the featured "April Showers" macchiato. Both were overly sweet, even for us. Note that the coffee that they brew and sell is not Fair Trade (atleast that we were able to identify), for those of you who want to know.

ATMOSPHERE: 5 - We found that Wired has chosen their "mascot" to be a tiki mask.  We were pretty taken aback by this and found no explanation for the use of this tribal art. Why the tiki, you ask?  Wish we knew! The art on the walls is great and features some very different bright colored pieces, but mix the art with the already brightly colored walls, and it creates stimulation overkill. The upholstery of the couches and chairs is worn and dirty making them less than inviting. Overall the general establishment is very clean.

PRICES: 5- The average coffee prices are comparabale to larger coffee chains but we question whether the scale is waranted based on the quality of the coffee. Prices for food items and gelato are fair.

PARKING: 8 - Ample parking in lot shared with other businesses and they offer 15 minutes parking spots for those of you how want to get something quick.

BROWNIE POINTS: 2 - We love that they offer free WI -FI. They also support the local school's character education program.

OVERALL: 6

Kacy says - "When you walk in this place it feels like skittles just threw up on the walls of an African hut, considering the Tiki motif everywhere. Someboy tasted the rainbow in here. If you have ADD, this place would not be good for you considering the stimulation over load. For a bit of positivity, the gelato is great and accessible."


Ashlee says -" I think this place is great for the younger crowd looking for their first real coffee hang out or for local business people looking for a quick bite and brew. Perhaps they might take a note from other establishments and work on marketing themselves abit more, a twitter account could do them wonders!  They once had a facebook fan page where they often updated daily deals but I have not seen an update from them in some time. Gotta get on the social network bandwagon in order to draw on their selected demographic. :) "

The Heart of Hartford Street - Hartford Coffee Company

Hartford Coffee Company

3974 Hartford Street

St. Louis, MO 63116

314.776.java (5282)

www.hartfordcoffee.net

Hartford Coffee Company, housed in a quintessential south city single family flat on the corner of Hartford and Roger, boasts as much charm as it does flavor.  Walk in and you are sure to notice the hardwood and artwork (featured by local artists) but you might also be surprised to hear the sweet sounds of indie tunes and children's laughter intertwined.  That's right, we may have found the golden grail of coffee shops.  This particular establishment is welcoming for both the college coffee cravers and mom's needing a respite from the confines of the house.  Some might cringe at this idea but never fear, a wonderful children's area (complete with toys) is nestled behind tall bookshelves that act as a sales area for Hartford's own whole bean flavor sensations.  Looking for breakfast all day?  You can find it here for a great price!  In fact, We were most impressed that all of the entrees for both breakfast and lunch were all under $8 and that the options were seemingly endless.  Served up for lunch are flavorful sandwiches, like the Tower Grove Club and Hartford Gyro but also available are salads and vegetarian fare. Don't fill up too much though!  Also on the menu are luscious desserts including cheesecakes, tiramisu, and mile high chocolate cakes.  But let's be honest, we all want the dish on the COFFEE!  We are happy to report that the beans brewed at Hartford are full, flavorful, and won't break the bank.  Priced less than its competitors, Hartford offers lattes, americanos, cocoas, smoothies, and teas that are sure to please even the pickiest palette.  We are also proud to announce that Hartford brews Fair Trade and sells Fair Trade to take home for your own coffee experience.  For those of you unfamiliar to the Fair Trade be sure to read more about it on http://www.fairtradefederation.org/

Below you will find our ratings 5 categories ranging from 1-10:

FOOD: 6.5 - We ordered during breakfast and ordered a "Sammie" which is a egg and sausage sandwich on a toasted bagel. It was good, but could possibly be made at home and taste the same and a "Fritata" which offered an ample portion of eggs but could have used more seasoning. The other parts of the menu offers some unique and favorable options based on what you order.

COFFEE: 8 - We both ordered the creme brulee latte and thought it was very smooth and had great flavor. If you do not prefer sweet coffee, this choice is not for you.

ATMOSPHERE: 8 - Great balance between public area and family area. The decor is fun and artsy without being cliche'. Miss matched tables and chairs create a layback effect. The marketing for local artists creates the community appeal. Local magazines are available to enjoy while you drink your coffee or to take home. There is an elevated work space set apart for students or business people that creates a separate but included environment to work on projects or finish up a spread sheet. The atmosphere fits well into the neighbored and does not distract from its outside surroundings.

PRICES: 8 - Prices are well below the average competitor. We got a whole meal for under 10 dollars. (Including the latte.)

PARKING: 8 (4) - We came in the morning and easy to access, but possible during more peak hours parking could be a challenge.

BROWNIE POINTS: 3 - Brownie points are things we appreciated about the establishment. We liked that they housed local events promoting local talent. And also that they offer and brew Fair Trade coffee.  They also sell it whole bean in a variety of flavors. They also have a drink discount card.

OVERALL SCORE: 8


Kacy says: "The coffee was really good. The deserts also looked fantastic. Definitely a place to come and have coffee and dessert after dinner, and read outside on the patio ;) "

Ashlee says: " The location is wonderful for locals looking for that 'around the corner' coffee spot. I could see spending hours here and not even noticing the moments pass by. Branch out from the usual and take a little jaunt down to south city!"

~Ka & Ak

Connecting Coffee and Community

So you have stumbled upon this blog and might be thinking to yourself, "What is this all about?" Well, I'll be happy to tell you!

Java Journeys is the brainchild blog of friends and co-workers Ashlee and Kacy.  Both avid coffee enthusiasts, these urban explorers decided that it would be a great idea to share their finds not only with each other but with other coffee lovers as well.

Through this blog you will find all you need to know about various coffee shops in the St.Louis area. Ever wonder who has the best coffee art? Or who offers the best brew for your buck? Look no further! We will offer tips, pics, prices, coffee and food suggestions, videos, and more.  Along with all things coffee, we will also bring you "Coffee Talk", where Kacy and I will let you in on the topics we're passionate about.

While we have some definite set locations we have mapped to visit, we would also like your suggestions.  If you have a coffee shop that you love and would like for us to review and share with everyone, please leave us a comment or email us at javajourneys@gmail.com.  If you're a coffee shop owner who would like more exposure for your business, drop us a line and we'll be sure to include you right here!

So grab a cup and settle in for an adventure of epic whole bean proportions!

~ Ka & Ak~


Here's a bit about your authors:

Kacy:

"My goal is to share with you something real....whether that is through finding the perfect cup of coffee or just telling you what is going on in my life. Too often I think that we try to put on masks, but we don't want to show who we really are. I'm not always eloquent, and you can always depend on me to be inappropriate, but I will always try to be honest :) "

*I love Jesus Christ. He makes me who I am.

*I love chocolate.

*I love to stay up late and I equally love to go to bed early, depends on the day.

*I love to sleep in.

*I love pedicures. I get them way too often, and I don't feel guilty.

*I love dancing.  I do love to shake my booty.

*I love singing. No, I’m not good but I do love a good upbeat 80’s song to sing to on a road trip with the windows rolled down.

*I love my morning coffee.

*I love the park.

*I love the Fall and Spring seasons. 

*I love the holidays.

*I love Bulldogs.

*I love watching movies.

*I love fire.  Campfires, Bonfires, Fires in the fireplace.  I'm a borderline pyro.

A few more things, you might not know about me............

*I've been drinking coffee for 13 years...and yes, I really do love it!

*I'm 27 years old.

*I was born in Louisiana.

*I used to be a ballerina.

*I currently in college pursuing a counseling degree.

*I'm a little quirky

*I'm a little "rough around the edges"

*I'm a early morning and late night person.  My mind is at it's best from 10-12 at night or 6-8 in the morning. The afternoon is when I want to sleep.

*I'm a texter.

Ashlee:

"I don't know if you have noticed, but life is too short to not stop and smell the flowers (or coffee!) every now and then.  I believe that God puts us on this earth not to live half heartedly, just going through the motions, but rather to live with vivacity, in anticipation of each day that lies ahead.  I hope that through this blog you are inspired to get out there and explore the world around you, not settling for status quo but striving to discover the hidden gems!"

*I am, because HE is. I love, because HE is love.
*I have a dachshund that is much too human for her own good...and I love her so much for her quirks!

*I love coffee but it has taken time to get there... I started by enjoying the light frozen frapps and now I'm a whole bean, dark roast snob :)

*I graduated from college last year with a dual degree in Worship Arts and Ministry and Leadership

*I love musicals and often wish my life was one. Due to the fact that a group of people aren't likely to burst out in song when I walk down the street, I quench my desire my doing live theatre.

*Music is a passion of mine and I listen to everything from classical to country, Christian to jazz, Oldies to 80's and everything in between.

*I'm a pastor's kid....don't judge! lol

*I may be 6'1" but I love to wear heels.

*I love dark chocolate.

*I love my oreos frozen.

*I enjoy baking and specialize in cupcakes.

*Dancing with the Stars makes me want to learn to dance and be THAT good.

*I'm 24 years old.

*Like Kacy, I'm kind of quirky, so watch out!