If This is Coffee: JavaVino in Atlanta, Georgia - Your One-Stop for Coffee, Tea, Smoothies and Wine

With coffee prices on the rise, it's becoming much easier to have a cup before leaving the house. There's still hope, however...and if you stick around, the folks at this coffee bar may even educate you in the process of making cappuccino.

The baristas at JavaVino, a quaint coffee bar in the Poncey Highlands, are happy to demonstrate their skill and knowledge of coffee, tea, and many of the factors surrounding their production. One of them, Diana, goes through the procedure, explaining how you can discern gourmet cappuccino from your standard cup o' joe. She demonstrates that their cappuccino will retain its frothiness long after it has been made. "If it has thin, wimpy, crappy foam, it dissipates quickly," she comments. Additionally, she explains that "getting [coffee of any kind] fresh the week you bought it is superior to something that has sat around," implying that oftentimes, due to distribution, certain chains may have to let their coffee sit for long periods.

She continues by illustrating that the creme (on the surface) has a tigertail, meaning its color is light around the rim of the cup, and dark in the middle. "That's good espresso," she muses, "and having a good machine makes a big difference." For an extra bit of trivia, she adds, "Do you know why it's called a shot? That [originated] at the coffee bars in Europe, where they served coffee in a similar way to how we serve alcohol."

With a quick taste, Diana's point is proven. All of JavaVino's coffee, it's safe to say, is delicious, and relatively inexpensive. For rise-and-shine commuters, coffee is $1.00 until 8 AM; you can buy a latte for $1.50, and a mocha for $2.00. As a matter of fact, they are the cheapest coffee shop in Atlanta (and not far from Midtown.)

In addition to coffee, they make excellent tea, smoothies, and hot chocolate. Most of the coffee is Nicaraguan, due to co-owner Heddy Kuhl's years spent living in the country. Freshly brewed throughout the day, it is perfect for students, tourists, and local connoisseurs alike. Not only that; the coffee is delivered directly from the owners' wholesale business, Beanealogy.

Displayed in the front window is JavaVino's very own coffee roaster, which they call "our most valuable piece of machinery." Were you to enter the average chain location, this is likely the last sight you would expect to see. Kuhl co-manages the business with her husband Steve; she provides a detailed explanation of the coffee roaster's inner workings for the curious.

For the discerning coffee drinker, JavaVino is a welcome sight in the neighborhood. Diana explains that the major corporations buy up space that other businesses are planning to use, which would explain why some chain coffee shops seem to appear on every corner. Unlike the overpacked spots, JavaVino also retains a laidback atmosphere, ideal for study, work, or simple relaxation. Its "soundtrack" generally consists of reggae or jazz, and sometimes rock; while it's audible, its volume is never raised to the point of distraction.

A number of artworks also dot the walls, including many photographs by Heddy Kuhl herself. Among the photos are highlights of her trips taken around the world. And, if you're one who enjoys a good read, some of the picture frames contain highlights of JavaVino's "backstory," if you will.

Observant folks may notice the Vino in the name; that's Spanish for wine, in case you didn't catch it. The cafe serves a number of delicious wines and beers (a full list is available, if asked.) Its baristas are somewhat of wine connoisseurs as well, so they can recommend something suited to your tastes. "We have a good deal with Searidge; [they make] Merlot and Chardonnay," explains Becky Bibens, another staff member. "Navarra's very good too; it's a blend of tempranillo and cabernet sauvignon." In fact, the wines are a great complement to the soups and snacks offered on the menu.

Also included are such beers as Dogfish Head, Loose Cannon, and Bass Ale. Of those three, your average bar will probably only serve Bass. Loose Cannon is a hop₃ Ale (7.25% alcohol by volume) with "a fine layer of yeast at the bottom," according to its producers. It has a rather "hoppy" taste to it, with a combination of bitter and sweet. For more information, check out Clipper City Brewing Co.

On JavaVino's delicious smoothie menu, you'll find such flavors as Strawberry Sensation, Mango Guava Madness, and Wild Berry Punch. Ever try a Java Smoothie? This is your chance. Customers also recommend Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies and Cream, and Caramel Latte. Personally, I suggest the Mango or the Chocolate Peanut Butter...but that all depends on your tastes.

JavaVino's menu, available at JavaVino: Menu, features many of the food selections that will whet your appetite. Among them are the Breakfast Burrito, Breakfast Sandwich, and the Tomato Concasse (an excellent vegetarian dish.) The site displays appetizing photos of the menu items, sure to encourage visitors!

So, for the wine connoisseurs, coffee sippers, and commuters of Atlanta, stop into JavaVino and experience coffee the way it was meant to be. If you'd like more information, contact the Managing Director:

steve@javavino.com

Or call 404-577-8673. Anyone will be happy to fill you in on the latest. As for the most important critics, that would be you, the public. JavaVino's doors are open, so step right in!