Coffee Break: Latte and Granola Bar at Credo

I stopped into the new 124th Street location of Credo recently. To go with my latte, which was creamy and strong without being overpowering, I had a granola bar. Soft and full of fruits and grains, it was quite filling. Granola lovers will rejoice.

Coffee Break: Latte at Leva

Latte at Leva, a photo by raise my voice on Flickr.

First of all, I am actually writing this blog right here in the establishment. Never done that before. I feel so stealthy, LOL!

Anyways, I am also at Leva Cappuccino Bar (10653 86 Avenue) for the first time. I had to go out of my way, but it was worth it. This latte is fantastic, albeit with a bit more of a foamy head than I am used to. It is also a bit pricier here - most of the coffee drinks are in the $5 range - but the quality is well worth it. It is a bright space as well, with lots of tables that lend themselves to using a laptop on the free wireless.

Coffee Break: Iced Latte at Da Capo

Iced Latte, a photo by raise my voice on Flickr.

Da Capo has a second location along Whyte and 102 Street. Sharing digs with another cafe and a grocery, this location features all of the great espresso drinks like at the the original location.

Being so warm out, I wanted an iced latte. It really hit the spot. The strength of the drink was perfect and I loved the little pieces of ice that just floated on top and did not dilute things too much once they melted.

Coffee Break: Iced Chai Latte at Wild Earth Cafe

Iced Chai Latte, a photo by raise my voice on Flickr.

I wanted something cool this afternoon while riding my bicycle around the neigbourhood on errands. However, I did not want coffee. I opted for an iced chai latte at Wild Earth Cafe on 85 Avenue and 142 Street.

It certainly was cold and refreshing. The chai flavour was not overwhelmingly strong and I could perhaps done with a little more of it, but it was better than being bitter which I often experience elsewhere. Perhaps next time I will try the chocolate chai.

Coffee Break: Chai Latte at Wild Earth Cafe

Chai Latte, a photo by raise my voice on Flickr.

I spent Sunday afternoon running errands and needed something warm and nourishing. A chair latte at Wild Earth Cafe (85 Avenue and 142 Street) was in order. It's creamy and heavy on the cinnamon topping. The spice mixture tastes familiar, as someone who has had a chai latte in just about every coffee and tea shop around - definitely better than the chain shops.

Coffee Break: Latte from The Carrot

Latte from The Carrot, a photo by raise my voice on Flickr.

Coffee and community go hand in hand for me quite often. Going for coffee is an opportunity to socialize, to do business, or to enjoy some local culture.

I get all of this and more at The Carrot, a community arts coffeehouse on Alberta Avenue. Run almost entirely by volunteers, The Carrot is a cozy place to hang out with friends, while enjoying the beautiful art adorning the walls. Performances are also often held in the intimate space, and local artisan's crafts are also for sale.

An organization I am working with is holding an event this coming week at The Carrot, and as several of my co-planners had never been there before, we seized the opportunity to introduce them to the space. They were impressed.

What was also impressive was my latte. It wasn't fancy. It didn't have cute art on top. But it was one of the richest, smoothest lattes I have ever enjoyed. I was hopped up for the rest of the afternoon.

Head to The Carrot for coffee and community. It's a great combination!

Coffee Break: Red Tea Latte at Cafe Tiramisu

Red Tea Latte, a photo by raise my voice on Flickr.

Some of the most interesting coffee breaks I have, is when I don't even end up ordering coffee! Such was my choice this afternoon at Cafe Tiramisu. Cafe Tiramisu is a "lifestyle" cafe that incorporates wellness programming such as yoga into the establishment. As well, there is a playroom allowing parents with young children to enjoy socializing.

I had a red tea latte. I have had other kinds of tea lattes before, but never this. Red tea has a lot of antioxidants in it, but I chose it because I wanted to try something new. The latte was rich and creamy, and tasted like a hot version of the Thai iced tea I enjoy at Viphalay. I drank it quickly and would definitely order a large next time.

Coffee Break: Latte at Second Cup

Latte, a photo by raise my voice on Flickr.

Second Cup is always my go-to to grab a cup of coffee since there is one in close proximity to where I live. Their lattes are consistent, and very hot. The "V" illustrated here was an attempt at the barrista drawing a heart - hey, it's the thought that counts!

Coffee Break: Latte at Wild Earth Cafe

Latte, a photo by raise my voice on Flickr.

Wild Earth Cafe (14238 85 Ave) recently opened in Edmonton's west end. Wild Earth's south side bakery location is quite a popular spot for coffee, treats, and sandwiches.

This location is smaller both in terms of size and menu offerings, but there is a huge selection of hot and cold drinks, particularly coffee and tea (there is a list of at least a dozen different kinds of London Fogs). A number of pastries and cakes are in the front display area, and there are a few sandwiches, salads, soups, and hot items to make a light lunch.

Today was my second trip to Wild Earth and I opted for a latte. Fitting in with the artistic atmosphere was the artistic presentation of my drink, which was rich and creamy.

Coffee Art: Latte at Credo Coffee

Latte at Credo Coffee, a photo by raise my voice on Flickr.

Credo Coffee is one of my favourite independent coffee shops in downtown Edmonton. I especially love their rich and smooth lattes. Here is the one I had yesterday!

Coffee Art: Three Bananas

Coffee Butterfly, a photo by raise my voice on Flickr.

This butterfly was drawn into my latte at Three Bananas (Churchill Square). I've had a lot of hearts and trees in my time, but this was probably my first butterfly.