Peet's Coffee in Pasadena
Written: Nov 04 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: very nice espresso drinks, chai, whole beans
Cons: busy, uninviting environment
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| dequebec's Full Review: Peet's Coffee & Tea |
Like other 20-something intellectuals, my friend Ken has issues with Starbucks. He is put-off by the generic flavor of the coffee, and is repulsed by the rapid expansion of this corporation. When we were undergraduates (he at UC Berkeley, myself at UCLA), I asked him where he preferred to get his caffeine fix. "Peet's" he responded, "but you don't have those in Los Angeles." Believe me, he had all the anti-Los Angeles attitude you expect from our neighbors to the North.
Since that time, Peet's has expanded down into Los Angeles (though there are still few franchises here). Of course, my buddy's testament to the superiority of Peet's made me curious...
I must give it up to Peet's-their espresso is darn good. It is characterized by full, bold flavor with minimal acidity. Drinks are prepared swiftly so as to not provoke bitterness; you will not see espresso sitting around, waiting for milk to be added. Treat yourself and enjoy a whole-milk iced latte-I have never sampled a smoother variety of this beverage. The chai is tasty but a little on the spicy side-this one is better hot than iced.
Be aware that the menu is not exactly original or vast. Served at Peet's is the standard quartet of espresso drinks, chai, a couple of blended drinks (not their specialty), drip coffee, and tea. Also served are a few baked goods and desserts (but at the Pasadena location, you are better off heading to the adjoined Noah's Bagels if you are looking for a snack).
The environment is somewhat lacking. In fact, it is comparable to Starbucks but without the great jazz and ethnic music. In the Los Angeles and Santa Cruz locations, seating is a bit on the limited side, and tables are small. Chairs are made of a heavy iron material and are uncomfortable. The stores can become busy on the weekends and morning. All in all, this is not a laid-back environment in which studying, leisure reading, or attentive conversation is facilitated.
Many varieties of whole beans are available at Peet's. Employees are knowledgeable about different bean characteristics, and will help you make a selection. You can also use a tool on their website (www.peets.com) to help you select a bean to suit your tastes.
Prices are comparable to those of other coffee/espresso outlets. At the Pasadena location, parking can be a challenge.
Peet's serves a great espresso. Period. If you are stopping by on your way to work, you will be a happy, caffinated customer. However, don't be hoping to catch any coffee house culture here. It simply won't happen.
Cool beans (haha-no pun intended),
Jennifer
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
dequebec
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Member: Jennifer
Location: los angeles, CA
Reviews written: 131
Trusted by: 118 members
About Me:
No longer an editor, thanks a bunch Nirav.
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