a new coffee destination

I need to get out of the house, and I need to not spend money.  House and clothes shopping are out.  I'm low on coffee and was told about Stumptown.  That's what I'll do.  I'll go buy coffee.

It is freezing, but sunny. I under-dress to get about two miles of walking in without overheating.  I get to the Ace Hotel — a smallish boutique hotel filled with hipsters.  In the lobby is a small coffee shop, with a line out the door.  

There are all kinds of coffees, and I have no idea which one to buy.  I ask one of the baristas, and her descriptions mean nothing to me.  I pretend to understand the difference between a light roasted blend or one with fruity undertones, but really, I can’t even imagine the differences.  Finally I settle on the recommended Guatemala Finca el Injerto-Bourbon.  It is described as having “a creamy, nutty aroma with subdued taste including some dark fruits.”  I am laughing to myself as I pretend this is exactly what I am looking for.  Ah, but they are out.  “It is one of our more popular flavors.” 

So I ask another one of the coffee experts and his favorite is the Panama Duncan Estate.  He describes it as lighter than the Guatamalan. This sounds good, I guess.  I go to pay and it’s $22.50 for 12 ounces.  I don’t want to give myself away by asking for something that is good but cheaper, so I buy it.

I do get a free cup of coffee with my purchase, so I sit in the lobby of the Ace Hotel, and sip my Stumptown while reading The Light Between Oceans.  It’s a nice way to spend the morning.