Russo's Coffee in Cleveland Works

Russo Espresso is a family owned and operated coffee house in Fairview Park. Located at 21380 Lorain Avenue they offer everything from the Cheetah Mocha to the Giana Crepe.

Cleveland does have a number of independent coffee houses and small "Cleveland Only" chains, but there was something different about Russo's. I found out that often times when you are there ordering, you are most likely being waited on by one of the owners. They are very friendly, and don't look down on you if you bring in a crabby two year old in hopes of grabbing a cup of sanity in the afternoon in-between play dates.

Often times when I am at a chain they make me feel rushed and offer an air of snobbery that has become one with the coffee culture. They charge me extra when I request a mocha made with decaf, and talk down to me like I am an idiot when I ask a question about one of their drinks. This is one of the charms of Russo's, you are guaranteed a hassle free experience.

The coffee, which comes from a company called Intelligentsia Coffee, comes from growers committed to sustainable practices and fair trade with growers the owners of Intelligentsia actually visit at least once a growing season.

The cornerstone of their business is the fact that they love espresso and that they actually purchase and use espresso beans when making it instead of regular coffee beans that are finely ground. You can taste the difference and it is delicious.

They also offer a wide variety of specialty drinks that you can not miss. They offer specialty beverages such as the Mocha Cheetah which is a caramel and vanilla latte spotted with chocolate on top, there is also the Milky Way with espresso, dark chocolate, and caramel, and my favorite the Chocolate Covered Cherry which is a Mocha with specialty cherry syrup mixed in.

Russo Espresso is one of the few coffee houses in Cleveland that offer crepes in addition to their coffee selection. They have the standard nutella and banana crepe as well as several different options to build your own crepes.

If crepes are not your thing they offer breakfast Panini's, Stromboli, house made soups, and a Stromboli that is to die for.

Supporting local businesses is becoming increasingly important. I highly recommend that if you are in the Cleveland are you check out Russo Espresso and experience what a real coffee house should be.