Unpopular opinion: slow bars make better espresso than the rush hour spots

I used to always hit this busy third wave shop downtown because the hype was huge. But after waiting 12 minutes for a pour over that tasted like hot acid, I walked two blocks to a quieter place with just one old guy behind the machine. He took his time, dialed in the shot, and it was the best cortado I've had in months. Busy places rush the puck prep, quiet shops actually care. Anyone else ditch the trendy spots for a slower bar?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_sam19d ago

Totally feel you on this one.

the_jessica19d ago

Oh man, it's just one of those days, right? I feel like I've been there more times than I can count this month alone. Sometimes you just need someone to say "yeah, that sucks" and move on.

carr.lee19d ago

That's a solid point. I read somewhere that the pressure of a long line makes baristas rush through the shot prep, which is the worst thing you can do. @the_jessica probably knows that feeling too, waiting around for a drink that's only okay. Give me the quiet spot with the steady hand any day.