This is not Starbucks.
Written: Dec 27 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: This isn't Starbucks
Cons: This isn't Starbucks
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| Razzmatazz's Full Review: Peet's Coffee & Tea |
Nestled away beyond the grandeur and relatively ubiquitous nature of Starbucks Coffee exists Peet's Coffee and Tea, a long-running coffee roasting company that is beginning to poke its head out from its obscure Bay Area roots, moving its stores to the Chicago, Portland, and Boston areas. Peet's, surprisingly enough, is one of the roots of Starbucks Coffee, which used to sell its coffee-- but that's where the resemblance ends. As you'll see, Peet's is a place for the true coffee drinker, dishing out high quality beverages, knowledgeable staff, and a nice atmosphere to go along with it.
Back to Basics
Peet's Coffee and Tea serves, as the name implies, coffees and teas, along with pastries, some sweets,and several other iced drinks. As far as other purchases go, it offers an assortment of coffee beans and loose teas, as well as a plethora of coffee and tea merchandise (from classic Italian espresso machines to t-shirts). Beyond that, you won't find much else, which makes visitors either love it or hate it.
The decor, though simple, is hands-down far classier than Starbucks. Instead of going for the fairly techno-industrial Generation-X look of its counterpart, Peet's has a classic, urbane and intellectual hangout look going for it, with the constant sound of classical music playing in the background, something that's a real turn on in the long run.
As far as service goes, it goes above and beyond most coffee shops. Employees, a wide mix of younger and older generations, go through training to perfect their coffee knowledge and must follow policies to please their customers-- I should know, I work there. From coffee and tea tastings, to product knowledge, employees will truly go out of their way to please their customers.
Drip Coffee and Tea: You Expect Me to Drink This?
I'll admit it, Peet's Coffee is not for the faint of heart-- or coffee sissies for that matter. It is, however, a mecca for coffee purists. The drip coffee served is served hot and served strong-- definitely packing a punch. At least five times a day, a Peet's "newbie" will inquire as to whether or not there is something wrong with the brew, taken aback by its potency. However, it is an excellent elixir for those who cannot function in the morning, as both the caffeine as well as the bold flavor will wake up anyone. Another difference between Peet's and most coffee shops is its refusal to add flavor shots into their drinks. The reason? Those flavor shots significantly take away from the actual taste of the coffee, instead of letting their natural flavor shine through.
For those unwilling to experience the power of a cup of Peet's coffee, try their assortment of loose and freshly pressed teas, made to order. The selection is extensive is rounded, from Peppermint, to Japanese Sencha green tea, to your basic but pleasing Earl Grey. Also, Peet's Chai is renowned for its aromatic flavor and excellent pairing with steamed milk. A useful fact to keep in mind: all the teas you can order are also for sale as loose teas in quarter-pound tins in the Tea Section.
Espresso Drinks: Tall-Double-Nonfats and Beyond
As far as beverages go, espresso-related drinks are the most popular by far at Peet's. From Lattes, to Capuccinos, to Caffe Machiattos, espresso drinks are among the top choice. Peet's espresso is among the best this side of Europe. Sharp, flavorful, and with a bit of a bite, espresso or an espresso-related beverage make a great choice for any time of the day. Surprising as it may be, espresso holds a significantly lower amount of caffeine than most drip coffee-- making it a drink to enjoy at any time of the day, be it the crack of dawn or the end of the day. Also, for those who do not favor the intense strength of Peet's drip coffee may enjoy espresso drinks which are often paired with milk and other ingredients which mellow down the flavor.
No Beans About It...
Excuse the pun... I had to. Moving on, Peet's beans are among the highest quality on the market. From the start, beans are ensured to be high-caliber since they are only purchased from smaller plantations, which are at higher altitudes and most often grow their beans in the shade-- processes that bring better flavor to them.
No two coffee beans have an exact same flavor, but different regions and different roasting types do generally have similar flavors. Single Origin coffees are those from a single region, and are not blended with any others. Single Origin coffees come from three major regions, The Pacific, Africa and Arabia, and The Americas. The Pacific generally offers medium-bodied coffees with a nutty and smooth flavor, one of my personal favorites. Arabian and African coffees are fuller in body and have a sweeter and a slight hint of chocolate in its taste, but their high prices may scare away some. The Americas offer light-bodied, slightly tangy and acidic coffees that offer a more familiar flavor. If you're still unsure about what coffee to buy, the Dark Roasts and Blends are a best bet.
When purchasing ground coffee beans, remember to know the filter type for which you would like you beans ground. This will save both you and the other customers a lot of time.
Razz Recommends
The following drinks are great picks for those who like coffee in moderation, like myself:
Mocha Freddo: It's Peet's version of the Frapuccino, with shots of espresso, cocoa, ice, and a binding powder. Quite good on a hot day.
Cafe Latte: All those afraid of coffee look no further. Despite preconceived notions, a latte is mostly milk, and is an interesting, creamy, and tasty combination. If you are very sensitive about your coffee strength, try a tall one with a single shot of espresso, which has much more milk than actual espresso.
Drip Coffee, Modified: If you really want drip coffee but don' want that intense flavor, just ask for some hot water added to your drip coffee instead of being served it in the strongest form. Or, if you want it a bit cooler, as opposed to its nearly boiling state, ask for some ice cubes, which both waters it down and lowers the temperature, without becoming iced coffee.
Summary
In summary, Peet's is an excellent location if you're ever in the mood for either coffee or tea. Stop by and have a try the next time you're in Boston, Chicago, Portland, or the Bay Area, it'll bring new meaning to tanster's "Java Nirvana".
Please note: Yes, I am an employee of Peet's, but the following epinion truthfully and honestly expressed the facts about the establishment, no sugar-coating whatsoever. I tried to fairly rate Peet's in a customer's point of view. Thanks for reading.
Special Notes, Tips or Menu Recommendations:
Peet's Coffee and Tea Los Gatos
Open Monday through Friday 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM
Open Sundays 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
798-1 Blossom Hill Road (Located in King's Court Shopping Center)
Los Gatos, CA 95032
Phone: (408) 358-6311
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
Razzmatazz
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Member: Jonathan
Location: Bay Area, CA
Reviews written: 21
Trusted by: 4 members
About Me:
Android lover at large.
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