A Coffee Rant

Coffee is essential to the proper functioning of most New Yorkers. Although there is a Starbucks on just about every corner, I agree with the sentiments of Dr. Ernesto “Papa Bean” Illy:

"Many Americans believe the darker you roast the coffee bean, the richer and better it is. But at a certain point, all you're producing is bitterness. It's like having a good piece of meat and cooking it too long. After a good cup of espresso your tongue should be colored. The taste should persist for 30 minutes. But if it's bad, it's torture."

During this hot summer, I have often found myself searching out a big cup of iced coffee. I was therefore highly intrigued by this shocking exposé of iced coffee price inflation!

What is the discerning coffee addict to do? One alternative is to buy one’s own beans. D'Amico Foods (718-875-5403) is a well-known Brooklyn coffee retailer with a wide selection. Illy coffee can be found at almost any New York supermarket. Also dear to my heart is the Montréal coffee paradise Cafemania. You can order a smooth Parisien blend or a spicy Moka Java Noir from their Web site. Five different grinds are available.

To make a perfect espresso or cappuccino every time, I employ the Saeco Vienna Deluxe. This amazing machine grinds, tamps, and creates a wonderful crema-topped espresso, then disposes of the coffee grounds. (If only I could get it to do my laundry!)

Time for a coffee break.