Cricket says....

I talked to Cricket yesterday and this is what she had to say about the Coffee Plantation...

Cool Beans…or…Surf’s Up At The Coffee Plantation? The rich scent of coffee tempts the taste buds while a flurry of folks drift and linger. Some sip quickly at their mocha lattes, stopping in for a quick blast of caffeine and conversation. Others chat casually or stare for long periods of time at their lap-top computer screens, surfing the web at this free wireless internet spot, occasionally nibbling at the decadent sour cream coffee cake on the plate by their side. Whatever the circumstance, one thing is clear: the Coffee Plantation is living up to its name. Not quite a year old, the upbeat and energetic café hits the mark with its warm climate cultivated by the owners and all who enter. Opened in March 2004 by former Californians Diane and Theo Glorie, it has fast become a gathering center for those who wish to indulge in the great tastes of coffee and community amid tropical décor, laid-back attitude, and world-beat music.

On a road-trip quest to find a new home, the couple fell in love
with the Keys and the island life-style. Theo discovered the building at 713 Caroline Street and instinctively knew that it was the home of their future business. “We found out that we could offer something that really isn’t offered in Key West,” says Theo. “That’s why we decided on a café. "The process was quick but well planned. After extensive research and lots of tasting, they chose a 100% Columbian house blend because of its smooth, full-bodied, non-bitter taste. For those with a penchant for a little more zip, there’s the Arabica espresso bean, roasted in Rome and touted by the Italians in all of their outdoor coffee kiosks. Made from these blends, their extensive coffee drink menu pleases everyone, from plain lattes to Tropical Machiato, a chilled tasty blend of espresso, coconut, vanilla, and milk that is more dessert than drink. And there are edible goodies, too; the menu spans from Goldman’s bagels with homemade cream cheeses to assorted pastries that’ll satisfy your sweet tooth. If you’re not lucky enough to linger, take home a bag of coffee or espresso in its rustic
sack stamped with the Havana-esque logo. There are also colorful tee shirts and quality boxes of key lime, chocolate and coffee gifts, ready for holiday gift basket assembling. The industrious will be pleased that The Coffee Plantation offers office-like services, with Internet, printing, scanning, and faxing access at very reasonable pricing. Laptop owners with wireless Internet capabilities will delight in hours of free surfing in both the café and the front porch. With lots of parking for scooters and bikes, there’s no concern over parking. “So far, it’s been nothing but compliments,” says Diane, who fosters Theo’s vision with her own warm spirit and steadiness. “Whether you’re here to meet friends or make friends,” she continues, “we hope you’ll feel welcome and have a great experience.”(Open 8 am to 6 pm, handicap accessible, 295 9808).

Wel... is'nt she sweet....