afé culture in America is usually framed in urban terms. Seattle, Portland, San Francisco and now New York are the
spots that grab the most buzz for their beans. But as specialty coffee has expanded its reach in recent years, the industry has proven that collections of serious shops and roasteries can also take root and grab strong customer followings in locales that lack skyscrapers, packed-in populations and weather that keeps you cursing. A spread-out, research-focused community
in North Carolina. A classic Midwest college town. A windsurfing outpost on the banks of the Columbia River. All of them have devel- oped café scenes filled with top-notch roasters and cafés that strive for taste perfection. How have they done it? Buckle up, grab a cup
and we'll fill in the details on a cross-country tour of some of America's most underrated coffee communities.
40 Fresh Cup Magazine freshcup.com