Kickin' it St. Louis Style! - Kaldi's Coffee

Kaldi's Coffee - Chesterfield                                                                   
Chesterfield Commons
17211 Chesterfield Airport Road
Chesterfield, MO 63005
636.536.6624







In the midst of Chesterfield Valley you will find a coffee company that calls St. Louis home.  Kaldi's Coffee not only operates multiple locations in the metro area but also a roasting house where they train their staff and churn out some of their own specialty brews.  This particular location boasts ample seating, a frosted glass meeting room, and convenient outdoor seating. Along with multiple coffee selections, Kaldi's offers a full menu of sandwhiches, salads, soups, pastries, and more. Walk in and you'll be greated with a smile and the service doesn't stop there.  From the moment you order, the pleasantly helpful staff brings your food, takes your dishes, refills your coffee, and offers up entertaining conversation.  So if you happen to be in the Valley and find yourself in need of a cup and conversation, head over to Kaldi's!

Below you will find our review of Kaldi's - Chesterfield in 5 different areas, rated from 1-10:

COFFEE: 6 - We found that the coffee (Drip) was extremely strong and almost bitter. Ashlee first tried an ethiopian blend but found it moderately harsh and hard to flavor so switched to a vanilla blend that proved to be more aromatic and a bit smoother.  If you're looking for a flavored coffee with a strong sense of flavor, this is not it but it does make the regular drip coffee bareable. Kacy also had the vanilla and agreed that it had a very bitter after taste.

FOOD: 7 - Kacy ordered a turkey avacado sandwhich that came with "billy goat chips".  She noted that it was good but nothing spectacular.  We did like that all of their items were toted as "all-natural" or "organic" but were concerned that these labels made the food more expensive than most places in this catagory.

ATMOSPHERE: 9 - This location embodies the classy characteristics of the West County/Chesterfield area. The colors are soothing and you'll find classic european wall paper and small chandelier accents throughout. There is a wonderful sitting area with an attractive fireplace to enjoy. Clean, Crisp, and Classy!

PRICES: 5 - On the downside we found the prices at Kaldi's to be fairly high in comparison to most of the establishments we've reviewed.  Some of the higher priced drinks far outreach places like Starbucks at their highest dollar amounts.  Specialty drinks start at almost $4.00 for the smallest size and you'll pay over $5.00 for a smoothie alone.

PARKING: 9 - You'll have no problem finding parking in the ample lot provided.

BROWNIE POINTS: 3 - We love that they sell their own coffee blends, mugs, water bottles, and messenger bags. The customer service is wonderful! Very friendly staff that seem to genuinely enjoy their work. Another plus is that they do have a local roasting house that you can tour and taste their various coffees.

OVERALL: 6

Kacy Says: " To be honest, I feel obligated to like Kaldi's because of it's St. Louis roots, I plainly just like the idea of Kaldi's.  I would not, however, go out of my way to have their coffee."

Ashlee Says: "The coffee is a bit bitter for my taste but it's a great place to come meet with friends or business associates.  Great ambiance!  I love that they are local and also support local businesses.

A Rocky Mountain Roast - Lone Wolf Coffee Company (The Wolf Public House)

The Wolf Public House                                                                    
15480 Clayton Rd.
Ballwin, MO
636-527-7027

If you're looking for the peace of a mountain lodge paired with the perfectly crafted brew of a european coffee haus, you'll find it tucked away in Ellisville!  The Wolf Public House, formerly known as Lone Wolf Coffee Company, encompasses the "good life" ambiance that you'll find in a trip to Colorado right here in our metro St. Louis back yard. But don't get confused, this rustic establishment is not without its charms and it certainly doesn't pull any punches on its food or drink offerings.  Here you'll find a wonderful selection of salads, sandwiches, wraps, and paninis that feature great flavor combos, sure to impress even the most picky palate. Pick your food and pick your brew, which is equally as unique.  The Wolf brews its own coffee beans and their gifted baristas can craft any one of the multiple espresso drinks for you or even suggest a drink for those of you who might be unsure of just what to choose.  For a break from the burbs and a respite in the Rockies, head over to Clayton Rd and spend some time at The Wolf, you might just leave howling at the moon!

Below you will find our ratings of The Wolf Public House, in 5 different catagories, from 1-10:

COFFEE: 8 - We loved the selection of fun espresso drinks!  Ashlee ordered the "Jungle Latte" which perfectly melded a rich mocha with a sweet banana for the perfect iced refresher.  Bold in flavor, easy on the sweet.  If you pick up a Java 101 menu on the way in, you'll find a detailed list of their available-for-purchase whole bean coffees (including ratings on flavor, acidity, and other factors) as well as the history of coffee and how to brew the perfect cup!

FOOD: 8.5 - While The Wolf does offer your typical sandwhich/salad menu, the flavors available are anything but.  You'lll find a yummy twist on grilled cheese, exotic salads, and unusual side dishes. Ashlee ordered "The Sonoma" which was a twist on a grilled portabella panini that featured roasted red peppers, pesto, and goat cheese all grilled together and served hot.  A bowtie pasta salad made for the perfect accompaniment.  Kacy ordered the "Black Bear" which was a black bean burger with lots of veggies. Though it sounded great, Kacy decided it was not fitting to her taste and after a request, the lovely staff made her "the Sonoma", which she greatly enjoyed.

ATMOSPHERE: 7.5 - This is not your typical overstuffed couch, small cafe table coffee shop. You'll find that it does have more of a restaurant feel.  The inside features rustic wooden floors and tables, hand painted chairs, boats on the walls, and lots of outdoor recreational pics. Imagine stepping into a page of Field and Stream and you're there! We also loved the beautiful riverstone on the facade of the building along with the quaint outdoor eating area.

PRICES: 7- You'll find sandwhiches and salad prices are comparable to an establishment like Panera.  The average meal offering is $7.95 with a side dish.  The coffee prices are average and run alongside other mainstream shops, with a 16oz drink running $3.75 and up.

PARKING: 9 - Lots of parking available!

BROWNIE POINTS: 4 - We loved that they offer live music on a regular basis and even feature a local songwriters night.  Great fresh foods and side dishes plays on the appeal of the health conscious or the food adventurer. We found that they are ALL about customer service and were great to accomodate requests and Kacy's re-order.

OVERALL: 8



Kacy says: "They offer great flavor combos, just becareful exactly what combos you're ordering!"

Ashlee says: "The Wolf definitely rivals another rustic coffee shop in town...will make it tought to decide which one to frequent!"

On The Road: Washington Whimsy - MannWell's Coffee Alley

                                                     
ManWell's Coffee Alley
110 W. Main St.
Washington, MO 63090
636.239.9699


Looking for a coffee break off of the beaten path?  Just 40 minutes west of downtown St. Louis lies the charming riverfront town of Washington Missouri. Here you'll find quaint streets lined with unique little shops, bursting at the seems with an endless aray of textiles and treats.  Also available for your entertainment are wineries, museums, parks, and more.  If amidst your tour of this lovely town you find that you're in need of a pick-me-up, head on over to MannWell's Coffee Alley.  Step through the door and you'll be greeted with the quintessential coffee shop experience, complete with hardwood floors, red brick walls, soothing indie tunes, and comfy seats.  With a menu that boasts everything from lattes to hot chocolate and teas, as well as comforting paninis and salads, you'll be sure to find just the right item to satisfy your tastebuds.  So take a break from the norm, step out of the city, and get lost at MannWell's in Washington.


Below you will find our ratings of MannWell's Coffee Alley, in 5 different catagories, from 1-10:

COFFEE: 8.5 - Their variety of coffee inspired drinks (lattes, mochas, ccino's) easily rivals many chains and independent shops.  Kacy enjoyed the frozen chai with caramel, while Ashlee kept to her coffee roots with an iced Mayan Mocha (a delicious combination of dark chocolate and spices). Nadia represented for the non-coffee drinker by ordering a "mango-y" mango smoothie, which she remarked was "delicious!"

FOOD: 8 - While their food offerings might be simple, their delicious flavors are anything but.  Kacy and Ashlee both ordered the fresh veggie panini, a hot pressed panini overflowing with sun dried tomato pesto, red onions, artichoke hearts, and more. Nadia ordered the Parisian panini and loved the unique textural and flavorful blend of ham, cheese, and fresh apple on wheat berry bread. Wonderful options without being too complicated.

ATMOSPHERE: 9.5 - We loved the "chill" feel of this particular shop. It is the perfect meld of antique and modern, with mismatched chairs and tables, a wonderfully overstuffed wrap couch, unique artwork, and soothing music.  Another unique feature is the "book exchange", where each customer who orders an menu item is invited to "bring a book and take a book" from the oversized oak cabinet. This is the first time we've run across this concept in a coffee shop but we loved it!

 PRICES: 7 - We noticed that the food and drink prices are a tad high but after further investigation found out that mostly organic and local grown ingredients are used....even in the scones! We also liked the option to order half of a sandwhich or salad if you're not hungry enough for the full.  You'll pay around $6.99 for a full sandwhich and $3.99 for the half.  All sandwhiches are served with chips and a pickle.

PARKING: 8 (4) - All parking is off street, so depending on hours and traffic parking could be precarious.

BROWNIE POINTS: 6 - We loved that fact that they offered fair trade coffees and teas as well as the fact that they strive to use organic and local ingredients in their food.  They offer nights of live music with local artists and outdoor seating. If you're looking for a place to host your next meeting, you'll find a quaint separate meeting room in the back of the shop.  Most of all we loved that MannWell's has Nadia, she's a pretty awesome addition to this establishment.  Stop by and you just might see her here.

 



OVERALL: 8.5


Kacy says: "This is like a mosaic of artistry and coffee on main street. Super cute.  I would definitely come here again if I were in Washington."

Nadia says:

Ashlee says: "I love the old world feel of this shop and community.  It's a great change of pace from the rushed city shops.  I just wish they did refills on specialty drinks, my mocha was THAT good!"

And Now a Word from Our Sponsors...

As many of you have likely noticed, Kacy and I have not done a review for a hot second.  With the craziness of our schedules and Kacy being out of town, time got away from us.  Rest assured, we will be returning to the hott caffiene path for excellence this week and will be posting a review this week! Please be sure to tune in for all the details.


While I have your undivided attention, Kacy and I would like to invite you to join our fun by officially becoming a "follower" of our blog.  We know that so many of you visit and comment off-site, but we would love to start building this fanbase on the actual blogsite as well, as we work to spread the word about Java Journeys throughout the St. Louis area.  You can greatly aid in this by becoming a "follower" and it's easy! On the left hand tool bar on our page you will find a section entitled "Followers" where you will also find a "follow" button.  Simply click that button and you will be directed to a page that will give you an option to either 1. Follow Publicly or 2. Follow Privately.  By following publicly others will be able to see that you follow us and are part of the fun.  Following privately hides your subscription and you will not show up in our "followers" list.  We completely respect your privacy so if you choose to follow privately we understand, but we would love to see your lovely pic in our followers section.  When you follow us it shows that you value the local businesses in the St. Louis area and want to further the exposure of such establishments.  Help us help build our community!

We love you all!

Ashlee and Kacy

Rollin' in the Cherokee Mud - The Mud House

The Mud House
2101 Cherokee Street
St. Louis, MO 63118
314.776.6599
www.themudhousestl.com


At the corner of old world antique and new world convenience lies The Mud House.  Guardianed quaintly under the "Cherokee Lemp Historic District" rod iron sign, you will find the picture perfect representation of coffee shop culture, complete with hardwood floors, eclectic decor, overstuffed couches and the soothing sounds of earthy indy artists. If you're looking for an escape from the usual drive-thru brew and seeking more of a "shop-around-the-corner" step back in time, this would be the right place for you.  As soon as you walk in the staff are prompt to greet you like an old friend and invite you into their home for a smooth cup of comfort.  Their menu is chocked full of flavorful coffee creations such as the turtle latte, Caramel Macchiato, or even just your run of the mill black special.  To add to the unique feel here, owner Casey specializes in "Coffee Art" and can turn your latte into a masterpiece fit for the Louvre'.  Don't forget to treat yourself to one of their many culinary delights for lunch or breakfast. The crepes are a much buzzed about offering as well as the Cobb salad. We love the charm, the cozy eclecticity, and the community feel cultivated here and we're sure you will too!

Below you will find our ratings of The Mud House, in 5 different catagories, from 1-10:

COFFEE: 9.5 - Their coffee has a rich, smooth flavor. The owner Casey, does coffee art in your cup. Kacy has gotten a ninja turtle and a gorilla drawn in her lattes on previous visits. They have great specialty drinks, non-coffee drinks and tea. The coffee is Fair Trade, for those who are interested. They also have a coffee punch card, so once you purchase 8 coffees you get a free one on them!

FOOD: 8.5 - Interesting flavor combinations! They offer a great Cobb Salad which is big enough to feed two people. Housemade granola and pasteries are available daily. From the looks of it they are expanding the menu, which is very exciting.

ATMOSPHERE: 9 - Fun, cozy, eclectic excellence, customer friendly, and the right balance of stimulation. The customer has access to a wall to wall book shelf that is color coordinated and antiques that are available for purchase as well. The customer can open doors in the eating area if it gets a little warm and there is great interaction between the staff and customers. There are great comfortable couches and overstuffed chairs to sit and get emersed in a book for hours on end. People watching in this coffee shop will be sure to bring you entertainment as well.

PRICES: 8.5 - The prices are good for the area. They do serve some organic food but the good thing is the prices do not show it.

PARKING: 8 (4) - During peak hours it could be bad due to the limited off street parking, but during slow times it could be good becuase you might get a parking spot close to the door.

BROWNIE POINTS: 5 - We loved the uniqueness that The Mud House offers. Not only do they offer coffee art but they also feature local events and possess a great community feel.  In addition to the local events, they also host in-house events like food and wine tastings.  If you're a shopper like we are, you'll also love that they are located in the historic Cherokee Antique Row.

OVERALL: 9

Kacy says: "This is my personal favorite coffee shop in STL! Come by for a visit and see why I love it so much!"

Ashlee says: "Not only does The Mud House feed the stomach, but the soul as well.  There is something transformational that happens the moment you walk in the door. Time ceases and you completely forget to remember what was going on out in the world before you walked in.  Come in and get lost!"

Bringing the Flavor - Benton Park Cafe

Benton Park Cafe                                  
1900 Arsenal
St. Louis, MO. 63118
314.771.7200
www.bentonparkcafe.com                                                   



Surrounded by such St. Louis landmarks as Anheiser Busch and Gus' Pretzels you'll find Benton Park Cafe. This coffee and culinary treat will wet your apetite and feed your soul whether you're in for a long lunch or on the go. You'll find that at Benton Park, its as much about the food as it is about the coffee but with such an extensive coffee and specialty drink menu your caffeine craving is sure to be met. But really, what other coffee shop in our area totes a professional chef (white coat and all!) in it's kitchen? This special feature creates such flavorful offerings as the Teryaki BLT, Chicken Salad, Poppyseed Strawberry Salad, and more! Special touches is what makes Benton Park worth the visit.  Order water and you'll find a delightful cucumber slice is added for flavor. Walk in the door and you'll be met with a smile and wonderful service. So next time you're headed to the city, be sure to stop in and grab a bite.  You'll be glad you did!

Below you will find our ratings of Benton Park Cafe in 5 different areas, from 1-10:


COFFEE: 9 - The coffee had great flavor, it was smooth, although, they did not decorate with coffee art, which was a little dissapointing. They had great inventive specialty drinks.  In addition to all of the coffee offereings, they also have a full alchol menu featuring cocktails and brews.

FOOD: 9 - Kacy ordered the chicken salad sandwhich with the tomato and mozarella salad. The food was very flavorful and very good. Ashlee ordered the veggie sandwich (hott sandwhich with tomatoes, spinach, grilled onions, mushrooms, and melted cheese) with fresh fruit. It was like an adult grilled cheese!

ATMOSPHERE: 5 - It was kind of industrial drab. Upon entering you will notice that it is very dark due to the recessed lighting and dark hardwood floors and accents. The decor only seems to add to the confusion of the setting. They have art from local artists but you will also find vinery with christmas lights intertwined over the windows and doors, creating a country kitchen art exhibit. To only add more to the confusion are the Budwiser signs featrured in the windows. We felt that the space had much potential but seems confused and unfinished. The music featured a wide variety from rap to indie. The music seems to add to the idenity confusion of this establishment however.

PRICES: 6 - In general they are not priced for their location. The prices were compraable to other coffee establishements in higher end parts of the city.


PARKING: 8 (4) - Parking could be great during times of low traffic in the coffee shop but during high traffic times it could be less than convenient due to it's location right off the highway and it's location right across from Andhiswer Busch.

BROWNIE POINTS: 4 - We like that they occassionally have live music and that they feature local artist's works on their walls. We also greatly appreciated the local coffee and delicious specialty drinks!     



OVERALL RATING: 8



NOTE OF CONCERN: Kacy saw a waitress eat behind the counter in front of customers with no gloves on nor did she wash her hands after she ate and she imediately served customers. They have an A rating in the window from the health department but seeing this behavior is a note of concern.                  




Kacy says: "The coffee and food is great! The staff is very friendly and laidback. I would get there food to go and not stay and study though."

Ashlee says: "This would be a great place to go to grab eats for a picnic or before the Cardinal's game.  I can see so much potential here and I think with a slight decorative face lift, clientel would grow.  Make sure you try the Tahitian Vanilla Frapp...AMAZING!"

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!"