Turkish Coffee Saves the Day

It was a dreary day on 11^th Street. Rain was pouring, I wasn't making any progress on my term paper, and a homeless man had knocked down groceries from my arms and took off cackling with my Stoneyfield yogurt. I needed coffee. Not the subpar Starbucks coffee liquid akin to watery tar, but actual, full-bodied, and dense coffee. I immediately called a friend in the area, and we made our way to The Hummus Place at St. Mark’s. We sat in the corner table, and ordered our usual lunch specials with a side of Turkish coffee. If you haven’t had Turkish coffee, you are missing out. It is sludgy dark magic. 

Turkish coffee isn't a particular bean, but the method in which the coffee is prepared (something to note to all your friends when conversation dies, so they have the chance to unite and belittle you for being a snob - the ignorant masses everyone needs a common enemy). 

This is a coffee that isn't meant to be served on the go. So, whenever you need some time to unwind and catch up with a close friend, or want to look extra intellectual/cultured whilst reading Dostoevsky - revel in the rich and luxurious notes of Turkish coffee. I guarantee you will be so taken, that whenever you see a muddy puddle, you will crave for it. 

The Miracle on 23rd Street

I have a friend who I often visit on 23rd street. I always complain to him about how his apartment in Gramercy wasn’t near any good coffee places, and how if I had to drink one more K-Cup at his loft, I would implode. I had this ritual where if I visited him, I would get coffee on 30^th Street at Stumptown, and then trek to his place on 23^rd. He asked me, “Are you so stubborn you would walk 7 streets and 3 avenues to not drink the coffee at my place?” I would then just glare at his incredulous face, which loomed in front of me like a jaunty K-Cup 'it's so convenient' excuse-ridden tanned pusher. 

A sign from the Almighty. 

However, a miracle happened on 23rd Street! Pushcart Coffee made a new location across from my friend's apartment, and I was first in line. The lady behind the counter asked me if I wanted to try their famous latte or a Stumptown coldbrew. Being a loyal Stumptowner, but also wanting a hot beverage from a reputable coffee shop, I felt like Rosemary with her baby. I got both (this is why I am poor, and I befriend freshmen to use their dining hall plans/laundry facilities). I have no shame. It was worth the shaky hands and widened pupils. The Stumptown cold brew was everything and more (pleasant taste, smooth, and bright) and the latte was essentially a hug-in-a-cup. If you're in the area, please visit Pushcart Coffee (and get a Pecan Kiss on the side - they're baked by the manager's husband!)