espress, desserts, gift...
Open for about 2 1/2 years, the sign Ritual Coffee drew me in to this 8 by 16 square foot footprint store front, facing north. The cafe was very warm, but considering that I had been outside in the 60 degree overcast weather walking from 25th, maybe it was me.
The off-white alabaster walls were countered by walnut cabinets full of hand made curios and gifts from independent producers including a selection of $28 bottles of perfume. Music played from behind the counter, mostly female folk music reminiscent of the late 90s. Of the four small tables, the window seat was taken by a business meeting in progress. Most of the light came from the storefront window and a couple of 60 watt bulbs coupled with two ceiling spotlights.
Hallow
The single macchiatto, made with Ritual Coffee was exceptional. Each sip retained its flavor and texture over the fifteen minutes that I nursed the demitasse.
The ambience suggests a quiet place to read a book, or have a quiet, serious conversation, but I suspect that most orders are to go. As I sat there, two neighborhood customers came in, very friendly with the barista.
The dessert selection was a combination of gluten free and fine baked goods, mostly subtle sweets. Based on the available baked goods, this does not seem to be a morning coffee place. They also serve "Red Blossom" Tea, which I have since found out has a fine tea house on Grant Street in Chinatown. Unfortunately, the barista did not know what types of teas were labeled green or black, nor could she tell me anything about the two herbal teas beyond their names.
I will surely come by again for an excellent espresso and a bite size dessert.
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