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