Barista’s 1-Year Anniversary Party and Sneak Peak of New Location
14 March 2010 in Events
Last night I hit up the Barista 1-year anniversary party which also served as a sneak peak of the new location. Like a good guest, I arrived in a timely fashion at the start of the party.
Right away I noticed the space is a step up above the other location. Instead of having a physical separation between the bar/baristas and the tables, the seating areas seemed to engulf the bar, as if the bar was the star of a show. No matter where you stand in this space, you have a direct view of the baristas and can engage them while they do their thing. I can’t emphasize how much I appreciate this in a coffee shop. It just makes the vibe of the space much friendlier and fun.
When I arrived, the shop had a good number of people in it already. Everyone was laughing and having a great time and the Barista crew was running like a well-oiled machine. If the Mistral wasn’t in use, it was because the grinder was. I don’t think I saw that poor thing take a break the entire time I was there. The beer taps and wine had their own dedicated server, which also never got a chance to rest unless the kegs were being switched out.
Despite the ever-increasing size of the crowd in the ever-constant size of the space, this team of baristas managed to fire out incredible shot after incredible shot, all while socializing with the crowd of friends and family. To give an idea for how packed this place got, at one point when I wanted to go to the tip jar, located approximately 20 feet down the counter, I ended up going out the front door and walking around outside to the other entrance because it was faster.
I think it goes without saying that this was an amazing anniversary party. It was pretty difficult to go to this and not get excited for the opening of this new coffee shop. With a friendly staff, friendly space, and great drinks (both espresso and beer!) this will definitely be a great addition to the list of Portland coffee shops to brag about!
Well done sir! Keep those reviews coming
JamNa$sty represent. Good article homey.
JamNa$ty represent. Good article homey.
So good it’s worthy of a “double post”