Paragon Life

Something’s Brewing … and it’s good!

Posted on 05. Jan, 2010 by Shawntai_Brown in Kalamazoo, Other

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Looking for a place to escape from the cold? I’ve got a spot for you.

Imagine yourself sitting in the back corner of a warm-colored room. You bring a ceramic cup to your lips, the steam defrosting the winter off your chilled face. As you scroll down the pages of your Kindle, the warm liquid navigates through your body, raising your body temperature and bringing a serene stillness over you. Art all around you, the vibration of blender putting  a muffler on the sounds of the city buzzing outside and the jovial chatter of two strangers meeting for the first of many times to come makes you feel not so alone and yet happy in your solitude.

Photos by Cecilia A. Gardner (gardnermediapro.blogspot.com)

Something’s Brewing. And your comfort is now bubbling as your cup overfloweth.

I love this place. It is small, but full of urban life. A haven for artist and the calming aroma of coffees, soups and other delectable s, this cafe is right smack in the middle of everything cool about downtown Kalamazoo. I made the trek while working as an intern down the street at the Kalamazoo Gazette.

My favorite treats are:

• The Fresh Strawberry Smoothie: Made with soft-serve  ice cream, this drink is smooth, cool and very tasty. Plus, since it takes a little longer to make, you can chill on the hand-painted stools at the bar which are decorated in creamy designs. Enjoy a minute off your feet and engage in a lil convo with the friendly baristas Chad and Alex. Other people work there too, but these guys are always friendly and my personal favs.
• Citrus Cooler: Make it a hydra! Add a shot of raspberry to this lemonade and orange juice mix for a tart, cool refreshment. This is a great summer drink. Sometimes I even bear the cold to enjoy it in a warm room during the winter months. That’s how good it is.
• Anything coffee and flavored: I am picky about my coffee. Bottom line, I don’t drink anything unflavored. Check out all of the different combinations here.

If you aren’t into my choices, you can try one of the classes this place offers to learn how to brew, taste and serve the perfect cup!

Besides the drinks, this place has warm soups, scones, muffins, bagels, desserts, and other little treats.

It also serves as a mini art hop, featuring local art with practical purposes. Butter dishes, plates, soaps, pictures and more! The art really adds a feel of community to the cafe.

So take your favorite book, your netbook, or just your cell phone and enjoy a cup of whatever you like!

Get the details at http://www.somethings-brewing.net/

Like the photos? Check out the photographer at www.gardnermediapro.blogspot.com.