Remember when I once had a completely mortifying panic attack in a coffee shop because the lobby was too crowded? That was at Hazel Coffee Company and yes, I still haven’t lived it down. But good news: they fixed the lobby situation, and now it is our favorite place in town, hands down.
The Vibe When You Walk In: So Ciara and I stroll in and immediately get hit with that perfect coffee shop energy: cozy lighting, chill music, and staff so friendly you wonder if they gave smiles as a part of their hiring test.
Meet the Heroes Behind The Counter: Now let’s talk about our barista. I really want to be politically correct here so let me ask: is it barista for everyone or do dudes get called something else? I’m learning. But whatever the title, Andrew was our coffee therapist today. Super bubbly, insanely kind, and apparently equipped with superpowers to help with indecision.
You may notice there is no photo of Andrew here, and that is very intentional. Before today, Andrew was simply a talented stranger who made me a life changing cup of coffee. It felt deeply unsettling to suddenly raise my phone and say, “Hold on, I need to document you for a blog post I haven’t written yet.” So for the sake of public peace and my own dignity, I did not photograph my barista.
Now, how do I know his name, you may ask. Easy. I did what any emotionally affected person does after an excellent latte. I went on Instagram. There is exactly one hint. If you know, you know.
The Great Latte Debate: I could not decide between a vanilla latte or an iced maple sea salt latte. I know what you are thinking: two amazing choices, tragic dilemma. My only non-negotiable was that I wanted it like I mean it, AKA three shots of espresso.
Andrew stepped in like a wise coffee wizard and united me with a vanilla latte that was basically therapy in a cup. I am still not over how good it was.
Why We Keep Coming Back: Here is the thing about Hazel Coffee Company: it never feels awkward or too busy anymore, the staff are genuinely lovely, and the coffee hits every single time. Every visit feels like catching up with old friends. That is a rare thing.
If you ever see me at Hazel, just know I am not there for the aesthetics alone, I am there to caffeinate my soul with strong coffee and good energy. Plus, if you need someone to debate latte flavor profiles with, I am your GUY.
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