second in a series of four posts
Back to our guide to the Valley of the Sun.
CARTEL ROASTING CO. (Coronado)
- one of well-regarded chain’s 11 Arizona outlets, also found in Palm Springs, CA
- beautiful old stone block bungalow that’s so nice you’ll want to move in
- lots of interesting art on the walls
- if the blueberry pop tart is in the pastry case, get one, it’s amazing
XANADU COFFEE CO.
- located in an old bungalow, beautifully renovated by opening up the top level to the main floor and adding some modern design elements
- beautiful hot pink La Marzocco espresso machine, known affectionately as Rosie
SONGBIRD COFFEE & TEA HOUSE
I almost didn’t include them in the guide as my drink initially tasted really over-roasted, so I left without taking pics. But as I finished it in the car, the flavor profile evolved and I ended up liking it, so they’re on the list.
- beautiful old brick bungalow in downtown Phoenix, with a welcoming front porch & yard
- interior feels like an old family phone, with lots of wood trim, fireplace, different rooms, and a service counter in the kitchen space at the back of the house
- as its name implies, an equal emphasis on tea as well as coffee
TOURISTY INTERLUDE
Taliesin West, the Frank Lloyd Wright winter headquarters in Scottsdale, is well worth a visit. If you’ve ever visited Fallingwater, the epic FLW designed home in western Pennsylvania, you’ll find it familiar while noticing distinct differences owing to the very different sites and functions of the two projects.
Part 3 is up next.