Jaycee Quitiquit has two passions: brewing coffee and creating art. So, when he became a barista at, it was only natural for him to take up latte art.

“When Café Fili hired me, they didn’t have a wide coffee program—they were more focusing on food,” he says. “I was like, ‘I love coffee and I love art—why not combine them?’”

From Technicolor rainbows and sunflowers to cats and pandas, the self-taught 26-year-old can craft a wide array of designs, but what really sets his work apart is his use of color. “I love the mixing of colors,” he says. “Coffee is brown and dark. Color makes it beautiful.”

As a gay man, he also sees the rainbow hues as part of his personal pride.  “I’m part of the LGBTQ community,” he says. “Putting color on my cup of coffee means I’m part of that society—I want to convey how beautiful that is.”

Quitiquit, who moved to the U.S. in 2017 from the Philippines, comes by his love of coffee by way of his hometown Baguio city, where coffee is king.

“I’m from the mountains,” he says. “In my city, people drink coffee because the climate is cooler. We do a lot of latte art because we love hospitality. We like to go above and beyond.”

Before working at the Mt. Vernon cafe, he had never made java art. “I just started looking at pictures and videos and applying what I learned,” says Quitiquit, who adds food dye to the foam, pushes and pulls it to create shapes, then outlines it with chocolate syrup, all in under a minute so the coffee doesn’t get cold.

Despite his hard work, Quitiquit is not bothered by the fact that his milk foam masterpieces are ephemeral.

“People say, ‘I don’t want to sip this coffee and ruin the art.’ I tell them it gives me a chance to make a new design when they come back.”

Nestled on one of the area’s finest residential streets, the incredible home at 21 Blythewood Road once served as the residence of Howard Head, a visionary in the sports of tennis and skiing, who invented the oversized tennis racquet and laminated metal skis. Head meticulously redesigned the five-bedroom luxury home and grounds with wonderful living and recreational spaces. Located on nearly two acres in the highly desirable Blythewood community, this English country style five bedroom home welcomes guests into a garden courtyard accented by an antique lamppost. The beaded oak entry door opens into a classic vestibule and foyer. A wide cased portal leads into the adjoining living room featuring an oversized fireplace, concealed bar, built-ins, French doors to the front garden and a breathtaking window wall with sliding doors to the two-tier, 11,000 gallon koi pond and bluestone patio. Steps from the foyer lead to the solarium with two walls of glass and greenhouse ceiling as well as a wide stone planter open to the adjacent dining room with a fireplace and doors to the patio.

The tremendous, Trish Houck designed custom gourmet kitchen provides extensive cabinetry, quartz and granite counters, professional grade stainless appliances and an attached breakfast area, perfect to daydream over coffee through two full-length windows at the patio and pond. A hall leads to the chestnut library with built-in bookcases and cabinetry as well as floor length triple casement windows and a fireplace. A powder room and an exquisite family room with vaulted, wood paneled ceiling, built-ins, wet bar and billiard area complete the main level.

A large hall on the second floor flows to a seating area with a fireplace and banister overlook. A private hall provides entry to the primary bedroom suite where a window wall with sliding doors opens onto a large balcony overlooking the koi pond, pool and extensive woodland garden. Pocket doors lead into the attached dressing room with extensive custom fitted wardrobe cabinetry and a triple casement window and into the primary bath with heated porcelain tile floor, full-width cantilevered double vanity and glass-enclosed shower stall. Two additional, large en-suite bedrooms (one with fireplace) and a bedroom passage leads to bedrooms four and five as well as a hall bath. The third level provides a walk-in cedar closet and additional storage.

A back foyer on the lower level leads to the attached three-car garage while a separate hall opens to the laundry room, climate-controlled wine room, exercise room and bath. In addition to the extraordinary back patio and koi pond, extensive decking and patios lead to the picturesque pool complex with a hot tub, built-in bench seating, and a large custom built-in teak bar. The pool area overlooks the fabled tennis court, specifically designed below grade to ensure a natural barrier to wind. This competition quality tennis complex is one of the most beautiful private courts in the country. Terraced lawns accented by extensive stone garden walls lead to the wooded hillside garden area with floating curved steps, a man-made stream and waterfalls creating a fairytale setting. Designed throughout with state-of-the-art lighting and irrigation and stormwater management systems to maintain this lush venue and showcase it to the best advantage. Located on nearly two gorgeous and thoughtfully landscaped acres, this is a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most spectacular properties in Baltimore.

 

 

For more information, and to view other listings, click here:

→ Aveley Farms Coffee Roasters
Towson

Corey Voelkel was living in California working in the tech industry when a cup of coffee sourced from a farm in Guatemala changed the trajectory of his life. Soon, he quit his job, bought a 12-kilo roaster from a person in Florida, then moved back home to open his own roasting house and cafe in Harbor East. (He’s since moved the shop to Towson.) His goal is simple: to bring the highest quality coffee he can from around the world, roast it here, and share it with his customers.

“Our big thing is sustainable sourcing,” he says. “We also want to pay a fair price, so I can go back to these farms year after year and know they’re still going to be there.” The signature drink is a macadamia nut latte, but the cold brew also is a big seller. In September, it was canned for the first time, in a partnership with Oliver Brewing. Since Aveley Farms doesn’t have a kitchen, pastries from local bakers such as Little Fig Bake Shop and Ovenbird are sold daily. There’s nothing particularly high-tech about a great cup of coffee and a fresh-baked muffin, but that’s okay with Voelkel—and us.

→ Black Acres Roastery
Highlandtown

Travis Bell has been bringing a world of coffee flavors to Highlandtown since he started Black Acres Roastery in 2018. He was a resident of the neighborhood and thought it was the perfect location for a roaster, so, after training in Minneapolis, he opened the business and hasn’t looked back. Black Acres (a name inspired by the first systematic reparations attempt for newly freed slaves) sources its beans primarily from Africa and South America. Its cold brew, sold both from taps and in cans, is a year-round favorite. The Marrakesh variety is a medium-roast coffee steeped in cinnamon and cardamom, inspired by Moroccan recipes.

“We like to be creative with the coffees we do,” Bell says. “I love the reaction of people when they taste our coffee. They don’t get the bitterness or bland taste.” Customers can order beans or drinks to-go or via delivery apps, and in the coming months, they’ll have the option to sit in the cafe Bell plans to open onsite at the SEYA CrossFit and Wellness Center. Coffee, he believes, offers limitless possibilities.

→ The Common Ground
Hampden

For nearly a quarter-century, this small but mighty 36th Street mainstay has been a gathering place for Hampden residents pining for a high-quality cup of coffee and a bite to eat. Of course, characterizing the beloved coffee shop’s offerings in those basic terms is a massive simplification. Although it gets its beans from Ceremony Coffee Roasters in Annapolis and Baltimore’s own Zeke’s, many people can’t resist its smoothies, particularly the wildly popular chai peanut butter-banana variety.

“No matter how cold it seems to get, we always get a lot of repeat customers for that,” manager Ryan Comstock says. Much of its food is made in-house, including blueberry, cranberry walnut, raspberry, and chocolate-chip muffins. It has numerous vegan options, like garlic hummus and chili, and, at lunchtime, the homemade chicken salad is always a hit. 

Clockwise from back left: The Original Handwarmer Mug by Clay in Motion ($25) at 2910 on the Square. Kate Rowe Creations speckled tumbler ($30) at etsy.com/shop/KateRoweCreations. Limatus terra cotta tumbler by Guten Co. ($40) at Tortuga. HONEY+HANK 50-states leopard napkins ($44 for four) and handmade cutting board ($42) at Becket Hitch. Bmore Kind Julia E. Dean mug ($42) at Found Studio Shop. PinkKiss Pottery cactus mug ($48) at Found Studio Shop. Ceramic hedgehog pinch pot ($6.50) at Becket Hitch. Ceramic hand-carved yellow mug ($35) at Kate Rowe Creations. Bumble bee gold spoon ($6.50) at Becket Hitch.

Now that the temperatures have finally begun to take a (slight) dip, we say it’s high time to break out the pumpkin beers—on draft with a sugar and cinnamon rim, if you’re really feeling festive—and snuggle up with a warm cider or boozy coffee. Locally, there are plenty of places to get your fix of fall beverages, whether you’re a pumpkin-spice fiend, a fan of porters and stouts, or a spicy cocktail enthusiast. From beer and wine to coffee and booze-free options, here are a few drinks to try at local bars, cafes, and breweries to get you in the mood for the season. One sip and you’ll be apple picking and leaf peeping before you know it.

BEER

Monument City Brewing Company: Lamp Lighter

This Highlandtown hangout is welcoming the chilly temperatures (whenever they arrive) with a new Imperial Porter. Featuring robust notes of chocolate, roasted coffee, and a hint of vanilla, the 9.2-percent ABV release is a dark brown in color and ideal for sweater weather. If porters aren’t your thing, Monument City’s golden copper Battle IPA with floral and piney hop notes is a great alternative.

Full Tilt Brewing: Patterson Pumpkin
If you haven’t had a chance to visit Full Tilt’s new taproom in Govans, stop by this month to sip the famous Patterson Pumpkin Imperial Ale—brewed for the first time since 2015—while playing all of the old-school arcade games. Not only is Full Tilt bringing the beloved brew back this year, but come Thanksgiving, the team plans to also release a special version aged in Baltimore Spirits Company Epoch rye barrels.

DuClaw Brewing: Mad Bishop Oktoberfest

We’d be remiss without mentioning this fall favorite. First brewed in 1996, the German-style Oktoberfest is almost as old as DuClaw Brewing itself. Still, it remains a classic with its copper color and toasted malt aroma. Clocking in at a 6-percent ABV, the beer combines Vienna and Munich malts creating the perfect blend of fall flavors.

CIDER

Old Westminster Winery: Happy Camper
After releasing a few experimental varieties throughout the years, the team at Old Westminster Winery decided that this season was officially the time to go all out with its first wild cider. At 6.3-percent ABV, Happy Camper is made from heirloom apples, fermented with wild yeast, aged in American oak casks, and canned for easy outdoor sipping. Pick up a four pack at select retailers beginning October 1, or plan a trip to the beautiful Carroll County winery to sample the cider while taking in all of the woodsy vibes.

Great Shoals Winery: Spiced Hard Apple Cider

The name hypes up the wine, but Great Shoals is also a mecca for award-winning hard ciders made from fruit grown on local farms like Walnut Springs in Elkton and Baugher’s Orchard in Westminster. Among the many enticing blends (think everything from cherry to crabapple) is the Spiced Hard Apple Cider—a dessert-style varietal mulled with cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and orange peel.

COCKTAILS

Annabel Lee Tavern: The Gold Bug

There’s truly no better way to welcome the spooky season than by pulling up a barstool at Canton’s own corner-bar tribute to Edgar Allan Poe. Named after one of Poe’s most beloved short stories, this warm concoction fuses Captain Morgan, Myers rum, butter, cinnamon, brown sugar, and cloved lemon. While you’re at it, be sure to also try the seasonal “Phantasmagria,” a signature apple sangria served in a stemless skeleton glass.

Nepenthe Brewing Co: The Bourbon Cleanse

Sure, Hampden’s Nepenthe Brewing Co. is a full-service brewery and taproom, but it also serves up some killer cocktails. This season’s lineup includes “The Bourbon Cleanse,” which mixes bourbon with cider, lemon, cayenne, and maple. That pretty much sounds like fall in a glass to us.

Sugarvale: Siete Besos

You can always count on this subterranean spot in Mt. Vernon to change its cocktail menu with the seasons. Retreat from the cold with the “Siete Besos,” which combines Hamilton 86, Kirk & Sweeney, and Pampero Aniversario rums with spicy benedictine and coffee liqueur.

Wet City: Birch Better Have My Money
It should come as no surprise that the creative team behind the bar at Wet City has an entire lineup ready to roll out as the temperatures drop. Among the offerings is this cleverly named cocktail that mixes birch sap-infused vodka with Wild Turkey rye, Contratto Fernet, and a Laphroaig and vanilla rinse. Patrons should also be on the lookout for new beer releases like the red wine barrel-aged Cab—a dark sour with cherries and black currants.

COFFEE

Order and Chaos Coffee: Salted Caramel Mocha

Baristas at this South Baltimore java joint are spotlighting caramel in this sweet-and-savory mocha that combines espresso, caramel syrup, steamed milk, and a salt garnish. Don’t miss other indulgent sips including a ginger spiced coffee and cinnamon bun cappuccino.

Higher Grounds Coffee Roasters: Pumpkin Chai Latte

Move over PSL. This Highlandtown go-to is creating its own iteration of the infamous drink with chai. The secret ingredient? The shop uses a flavored powder (rather than a syrup) to give off the spicy taste. Add a shot of espresso to make it a “dirty” version.

One-Do Coffee Roasters: Housemade Golden Milk
Curl up with a good book at this Canton shop known for its strong brews and picture-perfect latte art. There are plenty of cold-weather coffees to choose from, but the Golden Milk—made with a turmeric-forward spice blend—is a surefire bet to warm your soul on a dreary day.

MOCKTAILS

True Chesapeake Oyster Co: The Ark and Dove

At this oyster-centric restaurant in Hampden’s Whitehall Mill (opening October 8), lead bartender Ashley Mac is looking forward to offering booze-free options that go beyond the typical ginger beer or Shirley Temple. The “Ark and Dove,” named after the two ships that the Calverts came to the Eastern Shore on from England, will be one of the featured drinks on the opening menu. It combines bitter Giffard aperitif syrup with a vegan eggwhite substitute, rhubarb, and a housemade Asian pear and cardamom shrub.

Wild Kombucha: Blood Orange CBD

It only makes sense that the experimental brains behind Wild Kombucha would explore CBD next. This month, the forward-thinking brewery—which recently unveiled new digs in Northwest Baltimore—launches its new Blood Orange CBD variety combining the flavorless compound (known to ease anxiety and stress) with citrus and floral notes. Catch it in retail stores like Giant and Whole Foods starting October 1.

WINE & MEAD

Boordy Vineyards: South Mountain Red

While we love a good white or rosé any time of year, the colder temperatures make way for robust reds like this affordable bottle from Boordy’s Landmark series. Fruit-forward and medium-bodied, the South Mountain Red features notes of tart cherries, cedar, and rose petals.

Charm City Meadworks: Retire by the Fire

As you start to pencil in backyard bonfires this season, be sure to pick up a few cans of this rich blend from Charm City Meadworks in Mt. Vernon. Notes of cacao, vanilla bean, and warm clove make this the perfect drink for gathering around a warm flame.

When Planit agency founders Matt Doud and Ed Callahan moved their offices from the Inner Harbor to Federal Hill, their new digs included all the modern-day workspace accoutrements: a billiard table, wall-mount bike racks, gumball machines, bathrooms with showers. But one thing was sorely lacking on their block: a coffee shop.

“When you’re considering a space, you look at all the typical things,” says Doud. “You ask, ‘Is it close to I-95? Does it have good parking? Does the Circulator come here?’ And it was like, ‘Yeah, but there’s no coffee shop.’”

As the saying goes, necessity is the mother of invention, so faster than you can say demitasse, the lifelong friends who met in third grade at Cockeysville’s St. Joseph’s School decided to go into the bean business. Open since last October, Order & Chaos Coffee, now part of Planit but open to the public, features a long list of boutique brews (Café Gommosa is espresso over marshmallows) and smoothies, as well as heady house-made Belgian-style Liège waffles sweetened with pearl sugar.

While deciding to join the bean scene was a natural for the entrepreneurs, settling on a brand name was more difficult. Inspired by their architect, Ehren Gaag of Gensler, they eventually settled on Order & Chaos. “When we were designing Planit, he said we should think of the firm as a skate park to describe how Planit works. It’s pretty fluid, it’s sometimes artistic, and it’s a little scary. He used order and chaos as an example of what it’s like to ride in a skate park. In admen times it was ‘the suits’ and ‘the creatives,’ so, for us, the suits are order and the creatives are chaos.”

While building the Order & Chaos brand, another challenge was to distinguish the spot from the plethora of Baltimore’s joe joints. “Coffee is hot, brown water you can get in a lot of places,” says Doud. “We asked ourselves, ‘How do we create an experience that connects with people?’

We wanted to make it approachable. A lot of the trends in coffee now are a little intimidating, a little condescending. I want to go in and not feel weird if I order it wrong, so I think it’s cool to have a place that’s not that way and that’s happy to teach you the difference between an AeroPress and an espresso.”

The ultimate perk? Planit employees get free cups of coffee. Not that Doud and Callahan are complaining. Jokes general manager Ryan Herzing, “Productivity is now though the roof.”

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Some Like It Hot!

And some like it cold. Some fun facts to go with your cuppa.

The latest miracle worker in the health scene is something you probably already have in your kitchen cabinet. Turmeric, a yellow spice belonging to the ginger family, has made its way to the top of the wellness list because of its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Spice up your beauty and health regime with one of these products, guaranteed to make you feel a little bit brighter.

Latte
Made from a mixture of cold-pressed turmeric juice and your choice of milk, this warm beverage can aid in gastrointestinal health and has been linked to the prevention of cancer cell growth. Turmeric latte ($3.50) at Order & Chaos.

Face Mask
Turmeric works as an acne treatment while simultaneously protecting the skin from bacteria, stimulating blood circulation, and revitalizing the skin. Andalou Naturals turmeric and gold clay mask ($3.69) at Whole Foods.

Tea
Turmeric tea can boost your immune system and lower inflammation throughout the body. Rishi turmeric ginger tea ($3.99) at Common Ground.

Ground Turmeric
Digesting turmeric can help with pain relief and aid in metabolism and weight management. Sprinkle it onto your veggies or mix it into your morning smoothie to reap all of the glorious benefits. Organic fair-trade ground turmeric ($4.99) at Whole Foods.

Supplements
With 400 mg of the golden spice in each bite, these support joint function and help with sore muscles. Good Day chocolate turmeric supplement ($3.49) at Whole Foods.

Essential Oils
These two essential oils, both made with turmeric, will be sure to improve mood, lower anxiety, and help with memory. Add a few drops to a warm bath or dab on a hot or cold compress to let the effects really soak in. Clarity oil ($12) at SoBotanical. Memory Lane oil ($13) at SoBotanical.

Picture 2,000 people all hopped up on caffeine eager to learn the latest trends in the coffee industry and all in search of their next cup of joe. This will be the scene at the Baltimore Convention Center March 16-18 as coffee bean connoisseurs will flock to the city for Coffee Fest.

Since 1992, this trade show has been providing education, competitions, and the ultimate networking experience to industry professionals around the country—hosting in well-known coffee towns like Seattle, Denver, and Los Angeles—but this is the first time it’s being held in Baltimore. 

“We do some coffee research to try to find the best places,” said marketing manager for Coffee Fest Holly Barrett. “We decided on Baltimore because it was an area we haven’t been to before, and the coffee scene is growing—it was a perfect fit.”

The weekend-long convention will feature more than 150 hours of educational seminars on topics ranging from customer service and leadership to coffee roasting and starting a business. The show will also include contests like America’s Best Espresso and a latte art competition, both featuring regional favorite Ceremony Coffee.

“They don’t use any other tools besides coffee and milk to create the latte art,” Barrett said. “It’s a pretty competitive arena—we get competitors from Japan and Korea.” 

Local roaster Zeke’s Coffee will also host plant tours on Saturday and Sunday of Coffee Fest for the attendees to learn how to select green coffee beans and roasting methods from experts. Brett Rhodes, the sales and special events manager of Zeke’s said they were honored to be approached by Coffee Fest organizers to exclusively host the tours.  

“Baltimore is becoming more of a coffee scene,” Rhondes said. “It’s taken a little bit longer than other places, but there is certainly a coffee culture growing. There are a lot of different coffees and roasting methods in the world, but we’re really focused on providing locally roasted coffee and being a part of the community we service.”

While the main conference is exclusively for trade industry professionals to learn and connect, there will be public events around the city for locals to join in the caffeinated-festivities.

Vent Coffee Roasters is hosting a Latte Art Showdown on March 4 at Union Craft Brewing in preparation for the Coffee Fest latte art competition. The family-friendly event is free and open to the public to watch baristas out-latte each other in a single elimination competition. The top three winners will walk away with tickets to Coffee Fest, espresso swag, and a bottle of coffee amaro donated by the Baltimore Whiskey Company.

“We wanted to do give baristas a chance to practice before competing at Coffee Fest,” said Sarah Walker, co-owner of Vent. “We also wanted to be able to offer a way to get to know us a little better. Baltimore’s coffee scene is growing, and Coffee Fest is helping to put us on the map.”

Peace and a Cup of Joe owner Themar Long is taking advantage of the unique timing of the conference—St. Patrick’s Day weekend—by hosting an Irish whiskey, cigar, and coffee pairing event. He will be partnering with Quintessential Gentleman (QG), a local men’s grooming shop, on March 17 to show locals that coffee is more versatile than just a morning fix. Long himself enjoys a nice BnB Cigar with a cup of coffee that’s been spiked with a shot of scotch, and a splash of Irish cream.

“I want to show how diverse coffee is and how often you can enjoy it,” he said. “You can also pair it with cigars and different types of liquors like Irish whiskey and scotch because it’s an after-dinner digestant.”

After being on the local coffee scene for more than a decade, Long is excited about the way the trade has evolved into more than just a typical cup of joe with cream.

“I think the awareness and appreciation of good coffee has really grown,” he said. “For Coffee Fest to actually come to Baltimore and host a conference, I think that says a lot about what we are doing here.”

There are plenty of places to order a good cup of coffee, open up a laptop, and get in a few free hours of Wi-Fi. But some of these spots can be distracting or try a little too consciously to be hipster-cool. This is why, when we want to come out of hibernation but still retain the comfort of home, we head to Canéla in Upper Fells Point. 

With interior Formstone accents, 10 tables, and counter seating, the cozy neighborhood cafe has a decidedly laidback vibe. There’s global music on the stereo and some of the friendliest people you’ll find working the kitchen and register. The woman behind the counter refers to regulars and first-timers alike with a friendly “sweetness” or “darling.” 

Of course, the coffee menu at Canéla, which is Spanish for cinnamon, is vast, with drip coffee, espresso, cappuccino, macchiato, red eye, and some standouts, including a delicious dirty chai and Zeke’s nitro cold brew on tap. There’s also a smoothie bar for an alternative pick-me-up and a full bar with three local beers on tap for an afternoon wind-down. 

But what really sets Canéla apart is its unexpected food menu. The cafe’s partners, Michele Mavias and KC Catalan, bring their respective Italian and Israeli influences to the table. And the Middle Eastern heritage is especially strong in dishes like the za’atar sandwich with pan-fried eggplant, roasted red peppers, red onions, tomatoes, goat cheese, and a hard-boiled egg on toasted, soft ciabatta. Drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with za’atar seasoning—oregano, sumac, cumin, and sesame seeds—the sandwich is hearty and flavorful.

If you want to stick with a more traditional American route, there is a delicious breakfast option (optimal after a night out) in the avocado BLT sandwich with thick, crispy bacon and mayo on a toasted asiago bagel, which comes from Towson Hot Bagels just down the street in Canton. Depending on your mood, there’s also a satisfying lox bagel sandwich with thinly sliced salmon and capers or a prosciutto baguette with mozzarella and olive oil.

Word to the wise: Always ask about the specials. You’ll soon find out that Canéla offers a 2-for-1 happy hour or, as on the day we visited, a pot of sweet-potato-and-black-bean chili that Mavais had just put on the stove. And she’ll serve it with a grilled cheese on the side because that’s just the kind of place this is. Though the menu features flavors from around the world, the staff and ambiance make every patron feel right at home.

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›› Canéla 1801 E. Lombard St., 443-708-2562. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 6:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Sat.-Sun. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. 

Halfway through the workday—after the caffeine has worn off and you’ve responded to your 50th email—you might find yourself in need of a pick-me-up, and nothing provides a boost quite like a four-legged fur ball. In fact, studies show that animals can improve mental health, lower stress levels, and lead to an all-around happier life. And now, instead of browsing adorable internet cat photos on your lunch break, you can play with them in real life at Baltimore’s first-ever cat café, located at the historic Whitehall Mill.

Two years ago, when Cam Tucker, the owner of Charm Kitty Café, visited the first cat café in D.C., he immediately wondered why Baltimore had yet to join the growing trend of cafes that doubled as adoption shelters. As a lifelong cat-lover and Baltimore transplant, he saw a similarity in his favorite pet and newfound city: both were deserving of second chances. Even the newly renovated mixed-use space his café shares with other vendors is a sort of revival. “We’re taking something old,” says Tucker, “and turning it into something special and unique.”

The café is certainly one of a kind for Baltimore, acting as both a foster home for cats from the Baltimore Humane Society and a co-working hangout for local residents and area business people, with java by Zeke’s Coffee and treats by Dark Side Cookies. Customers can walk in or make online reservations for 60-minute blocks of kitty time or register for full-day passes, which they can use to co-work alongside the whiskered critters any time.

With a continuous cycle of 10 cats that were mostly surrendered by previous owners, the café will provide additional space for the no-kill humane society to save more animal lives. “This is heaven for these cats,” says BHS executive director Christine DeCorse. “It gives them a comfortable environment where they can socialize with other cats and even people. Having them here is as close to a home as you can get.”

Soon, local cat lovers will also welcome a second cat café in Hampden early next year. Similar to Tucker, owner Amanda Bennett was inspired to start Neko No Kafe after a cat café visit in Canada. While no mention of a co-working space has been announced, the rest of the concept remains the same with adoptable cats from Passport Animal Rescue, a full coffee bar with beans from Chesapeake Bay Roasting Co., and bites from SweetSide Café.

Back in Whitehall Mill, Charm Kitty Café’s felines come in all colors, shapes, and personalities, and can even be adopted by customers via an on-site application. “When Baltimore is ready for a dog café, we’re there,” laughs Tucker. “I’ve got my hands full with the cats already, but stay tuned, you never know.”

The conundrum: The days you most need coffee are often the days you have the least time for it.

Enter the Mojoe Mobile Brewer, a coffeemaker and travel mug in one that allows users to have coffee wherever and whenever. The device is the brainchild of Harford County native Joseph Hyman, who earned a mechanical engineering degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Hyman was struck by inspiration when studying in the campus library.

“I wanted a cup of coffee and I didn’t want to go to the cafe because I didn’t want to spend money,” Hyman, now 27, remembers. “And I didn’t want to go to my dorm because I knew that if I went all the way back I would stop studying. I thought, ‘How come there isn’t a mobile coffeemaker?’”

Hyman and three of his friends—Alexandre Wing, Ezekiel Kolajo, and Jingrui Wang—set out to create one. In late 2015, they started an online fundraiser to cover manufacturing costs for the first batch of the devices, which will be shipped to customers starting this summer. The product, available for $149.99, also will get an auspicious introduction later this month at the CE Week electronic show in New York City.

The high-profile unveiling speaks to the ambitions of Hyman and his cohorts. “We want to have a very strong launch and [have it become] a household name similar to Keurig,” he says.

1. Saucer plate ($6) at Su Casa. 2. Cafe creamer ($5.25) at Trohv. 3. Linen napkin ($39.95/set of four) at Williams-Sonoma. Seletti porcelain tray ($24.50) at Trohv. Vintage flatware ($5.50/set) at Trohv. 4. Allen Cady walnut board ($49-89) at Trohv. 5. Sugar bowl ($5) at Trohv. 6. John Kelly dark chocolate espresso fudge bars ($3.99/each) at Ma Petite Shoe. 7. Water glasses ($8/each) at Trohv. 8. Bialetti Moka Express 6-Cup ($34.99) at Target. 9. Tea light holders ($6.50/each) at The Store Ltd. 10. Saucer plate ($6) at Su Casa. 11. Amola smoky espresso salt ($13.25) at In Watermelon Sugar. Small bowl ($27.50) at In Watermelon Sugar. 12. Slate platter ($6) at Su Casa. Ticket chocolate waffle pecan bar ($6.49) and Midnight Mocha Chocolate Fusion organic dark chocolate bar ($3.79) at Ma Petite Shoe. 13. Sterling silver sugar nips ($85) at Charlotte Elliott. Abbesses plate ($8) at Trohv. 14. Linen napkin ($9.95) at Williams-Sonoma. Wooden spoons ($19.95/set of four), horn spoon ($7.99), and shell spoon ($8.99) at Curiosity. Coffee and cookies courtesy of Ma Petite Shoe.

Coffee desert no more, Baltimore is blessed with many a caffeine oasis. We regularly indulge in the creamy cortado steamed at Johnny’s and the deep-mug satisfaction poured at Atwater’s. Here we highlight a few cups that stand out for their sheer audacity. Take a slug:

Rusty’s Sea Salt Massaged Ka’u
Spro, the tiny Hampden coffeehouse that serves up big flavor and long waits, now lists a cup that is also remarkably expensive. The $15 ka’u, brewed in a vac pot straight out of chemistry class, relies on beans that have been salt-rubbed during fermentation. Spro’s crib notes suggest it gives off “notes of pineapple, cherry and grape that lingers with a tannic, cabernet sauvignon type finish.” Our early morning taste buds didn’t catch all that, but we did savor the smooth sipping, salt-tinged taste, and whiff of the sea. It’s like waking up on the beach.

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Siphon Brewed
At Starbucks’ spacious new lounge in the Inner Harbor, you can order a $10 siphon-brewed cup that calls for seven minutes of preparation on a halogen-powered burner, 90 seconds of steeping and precisely four stirs. Our cup, brewed from 22 grams of Tanzania kimuli reserve beans, drew a crowd and delivered a gulp that was very hot and very light-bodied. Also light on flavor. On the upside, you don’t get that nasty post-coffee throat coat.

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Nitro Cold-Brew
We loved Tesfa Coffee, a sweet spot in Ridgely’s Delight that served drinks, sandwiches, and job training to youth aging out of foster care, until it sadly closed its doors last month. One of our favorite menu items was its nitro, which was cold-brewed for 24 hours, stored in a keg, and infused with nitrogen. The glass pint of brew looked more like a beer: cold, pale, and topped with a foamy head. Though Tesfa is closed, Taps Fill Station at the new Mt. Vernon Marketplace takes up the cause of nitro brew. A 10-ounce glass of Ceremony nitro cold brew is $3.50 or take home a 32-ounce growler for $12.50.

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Spike-ee-ato
At Artifact, where the crowd is hip and the coffee is hot, you can down the Spike-ee-ato. A shot of espresso in one demitasse, a shot topped with foam in another. The one-two punch, named for chef/owner Spike Gjerde, is sure to spike your day with its chocolate-rich intensity. A mere $3.50.

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Kopi Luwak
The Asian palm civet is a squirrel-style tree-dweller with a reputation as a picky eater. Up all night, it sniffs out the ripest coffee berries, downs them, and then—let’s say—expels them. Cleaned, roasted, and brewed, kopi luwak delivers what Zeke’s roastery manager Ryan Schmidt calls “an excellent, smooth cup.” Zeke’s Coffee hosted a tasting of the rare brew in January at $10 a slug. It may again next year—provided it can find ethically sourced beans. Apparently since the coffee became famous, entrepreneurs have been capturing and caging the civets. Zeke’s insists on the real deal: hand picked from the jungle floor in Indonesia. “The last thing we want to do is upset anybody or hurt any civet weasels,” says Schmidt. News of a tasting will be posted on Zeke’s site in December.

At first glance, Dooby’s may seem like a typical coffee shop. There are patrons glued to their MacBooks at communal tables and hard-working baristas behind the long marble counter. But a deeper look reveals so much more. Besides the thoughtful, well-brewed coffee (both pour-over and drip), there is the added bonus of a liquor license for local beers and creative cocktails. And while the Charles Street cafe has the same ordering format as a Panera, it features the menu of a sophisticated bistro. It’s also open for all three meals—a rarity in this town. Its owner Phil Han, who opened Dooby’s last fall, is an innovator. He also conceived the Hatch, an adjacent basement space that provides entrepreneurs with a place to open their businesses temporarily—usually six-to-eight weeks—and test out their concepts. Examples, so far, have been an oyster cellar, a holiday shop with local vendors, and a home-décor shop.

When we visited Dooby’s on a Saturday afternoon, we started off with the soup of the day—a generous portion of French onion with just the right amount of caramelized-onion flavor. We also loved the mushroom melt, pictured, with an array of portobello, shiitake, and buttons with melted Gruyère and roasted red peppers on sourdough bread. The earthy ’shrooms blended well with the creamy nuttiness of the cheese and the hint of sweetness from the peppers, while the sourdough remained crisp and hearty. We added a picante-poblano spread (an extra 25 cents) for a little kick. The carnivore in me didn’t even notice this was a vegetarian sandwich.

Also on the menu is a well-executed bahn mi with tender pork belly, tangy pickled carrots, an unexpected but pleasant honey-hoisin sauce, and Sriracha mayo, all on a French baguette. It was delicious, though the sandwich was a tad greasy. A nice touch: All of the sandwiches are served with a side of greens and a light vinaigrette—a welcome substitute for chips or fries.

The Mt. Vernon spot was packed during our visit with UB students sipping coffee on their open laptops and families chatting away in the dining room. With its creativity—both in concept and cuisine—Dooby’s crowds aren’t subsiding any time soon.

Whole Latte Love

To make your own latte art at home, it’s
important to start with whole milk because the fats create a velvety
texture. Also, when steaming milk, hold the pitcher at an angle to
create a swirl.

1. Tilt your cup to one side so that, when you start pouring your steamed milk, it goes underneath the espresso.
2. Once your cup is about 3/4-full, you begin to see the milk form a blob
   on top of the espresso. Pour slowly until the single blob gets larger.
3. Once you get toward the top of the cup, lift the pitcher up and push it
   through the blob of milk, creating the indent of the heart.
4. Remember to hold the handle throughout the entire process, so that
   you’re not touching the parts of the mug from which people will be
   drinking. Enjoy!

Tools of the Trade

• 
  Kettle
  Dowding says a good kettle is key and recommends a Bona Vita kettle, which is affordable and has a narrow spout so water doesn’t get dumped all at once.
• 
  Digital Timer
  The most accurate way to make home-brew coffee so you’re not just guessing.
• 
  Grinder
  A burrs grinder allows you to grind your beans more consistently and won’t dull as fast as a blade grinder.
• 
  Espresso Machine
  Dowding recommends this Rancilio Silvia V3 for its reasonable price and ability to pour the perfect shot and achieve foamy, steamed milk.

Which brewing method is right for you?

Brewing For A Few: French Press

This classic tool allows you to place coffee grounds at the bottom, hot water on the top, brew for four minutes, then plunge.

Brewing For You: Single Pour Over

Dowding recommends a v60 or Bee House coffee dripper for this method. It fits over most coffee mugs.

Baltimore Coffee and Tea

This certified organic roaster has a huge array of coffees and teas to please every palate.
9 W. Aylesbury Rd., Timonium, 410-561-1080.

Cafe Latte’da

You’ll find coffee and pastries in an eclectic and relaxing atmosphere.
1704 Aliceanna St., 410-342-7474.

Charmington’s

High ceilings and lots of seating provide ample opportunity to enjoy a
made-to-order sandwich or a house-made pastry with your drink. Free
Wi-Fi available except from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
2601 N. Howard St., 410-235-5004.

Common Ground

Meander down The Avenue to this cozy spot, with house-made options for break–fast and lunch.
819 W. 36 St., 410-235-5533.

Daily Grind

At this conveniently located Fells Point staple, you can grab a mocha
and other drinks with a sandwich while enjoying the free waterfront
view.
1720 Thames St., 410-558-0399.

Dooby’s Coffee

Sticky Bun Sunday draws a crowd, but you can enjoy other house-made
pastries and sandwiches any day of the week at the shop’s pop-up space
called The Hatch.
4 W. Madison St., 410-702-5144.

The Evergreen

The breakfast sandwiches and gelato are reasons to stop by and enjoy a cup of joe.
501 W. Cold Spring Ln., 410-235-8118.

The Filling Station

Enjoy your coffee in the backyard seating area of this quaint, off-the-beaten-path shop.
14910 York Rd., Sparks, 410-771-0006.

High Grounds Coffee Roasters

With the goal of building 100 orphanages, this coffee shop gives you a
philanthropic buzz. Ask to see how they roast their beans on-site.
3201 Eastern Ave., 410-342-7611.

LAMILL Coffee

The pastry happy hour, daily from 3-5 p.m., is a perfect excuse to enjoy a snack and a cup of coffee.
200 International Dr., Four Seasons Hotel, 410-576-5800.

Ma Petite Choux

Boasting an array of baked goods, house-made salads, coffee, tea, and
other beverages, this newcomer is worth a visit for mostly carryout. A
few tables are available on the porch for lingerers. Wi-Fi not
available.
830 W. 36 St., 410-235-3442.

Spro Coffee

With seven different brew methods, this is an establishment for every kind of coffee lover. Wi-Fi not available.
851 W. 36th St., 410-243-1262.

Zeke’s Coffee

This small-batch roastery sells coffee throughout the state, but the
relaxed atmosphere and delectable treats make visiting the Lauravillle
cafe a must.
4607 Harford Rd., 410-254-0122.