Today's walk was a short, but familiar one. Rather than letting the computer randomly chose a site in the city to wander off to, I jumped at the chance to join my friend Erica for a quick afternoon caffeine fix at an old favorite. Located at 1600 Pine Street is one of the best cappuccinos you may ever have. I knew this from past experience and was thrilled to add it to this summer's jaunts. This quiet and relaxed spot is much of what I envision when I think of a neighborhood coffee shop. The small tables are packed with people clicking away on their laptops (there is free wi-fi here) and the jovial french owner welcomes everyone who walks through the door. Most appear to be regulars who talk for a while, many engaging the owner in his native french language. While the initial room is small, the high ceilings give it an airy and bright quality as an eclectic collection of global music plays in the background. Now, when you go there and order your cappuccino, pay attention - you are about to witness a master at his craft. The owner runs the espresso machine like he is playing a fine instrument. He casually swirls the frothed milk into your cup with an undeniable rhythm. It is a keen reminder of quality in craftsmanship. Sipping your cappuccino at a small table by the window, with the rich smell of fresh coffee in the air, it will be hard to imagine there is anything else you have to do that day. As you get to the bottom of your cup, you will notice the airy frothed milk that is still clinging to the porcelain sides and if you deny that you sat there and scraped every last drop out with that small spoon, then you are simply a liar. La Citadelle is evidence that a small community neighborhood corner can still thrive within the shadow of a large city.
