We recently took a weekend jaunt to Flagstaff, where the residents there have every right to shiver, wrap up in their colorful handmade scarves, and utter "brrrrrr" as they tool about the chilly, pine-laden landscape.
For more than three decades now, Macy's European Coffeehouse and Bakery has been keeping Flagstaff residents warm with bold coffee drinks, from a plain cup of joe to a variety of specialty drinks.
See also: 7 Things to Eat and Drink in Flagstaff
More an homage to the coffee shops that started popping up in Europe in the 17th century than spots with slicker décor, everything about Macy's just feels classic. It's bustling -- we were wondering whether there's ever a time when there isn't a line out the door -- and it seems more interested in being cozy than stylish. It's loaded with rustic wooden tables, windy plants, and a couple of bright windows for nice natural light.
Macy's big red coffee roaster takes up a healthy chunk of the venue's second room and is really neat to ogle. The in-house roasting occurs daily to produce the shop's robust and potent coffee. A variety of grind sizes is used in all the hot and iced drinks, from the standard drip to espresso-based options -- like the couple of cappuccino varieties we tried.
The Café Viennese was a spice delight. A hearty brew made exotic by a mingling of cinnamon and clove was a winter wonderland in a ceramic mug. Topped with traditional cappuccino foam and allspice-whipped cream, it made the senses jump for joy as it warmed the body. We also enjoyed the Cappuccino Royale, which has brew topped with foam, sprinkles of chocolate and more fresh whipped cream.
In addition to pastries like ricotta and pomegranate seed muffins and blueberry coffee cake, the Macy's all vegetarian menu is loaded with breakfast and lunch options. And beyond vegetarian options, there are plenty of choices for not only meat free eaters, but also vegans and those looking for wheat-, nut- and gluten-free options.
And if you have to use the facilities, so to speak, while visiting, no need to ruin any walls while scribbling your philosophical treasures. Macy's, at least in the ladies room, offers a thoughtful chalkboard on which you can leave your mark.
Macy's Eurpean Coffeehouse 14 Beaver St., Flagstaff macyscoffee.net 928-774-2243 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily
