Arbor

Good music, good atmosphere for studying and working. Ambient noise and wide open space conducive to conversation without feeling self-conscious. Outlets are scattered in mostly hard to reach locations. Bike rack out front and also weirdly inside along the back wall. I can't imagine deciding to weave my bike through the tables and chairs and people to access these but I have admittedly never been here when it's raining.

One of my favorite coffee/tea/lunch/snack places in Temescal. Although food can be a bit inconsistent, depending on who's covering the kitchen. Poached eggs overcooked on too many occasions. But other sandwiches are great. Their baked goods selection gets scarce by later morning. Love the overall atmosphere and the crowd is fun to watch and be part of.

The counter guy was super chill, and perceptive. He knew his stuff. After a battery of questions[1], he recommended tea for me, and a custom mix of leaves. He might've recommended a beer to me[2]. It's a minor schlep to get here from the MacArthur BART station, but rarely will you find a barista who'll get in your head. Maybe I was lucky? I wish Arbor[3] took credit cards. Cash only, kids. [1] In a good way! [2] It's five o'clock somewhere. Were you expecting a useful footnote? [3] I heard they're the Hawk & Pony now. They might even take credit cards!