I'm not sure why this coffee house is called "Prince", but it should be in reference to the musical artist. Now for those who know me there may be questioning groans. I hear the murmurs now, "you and coffee shops" and "could it really be that good?" Folks, it is a responsibility being a coffee connoisseur and one I do not take lightly (roasting pun intended). So if I dare to exclaim this place to serve one of, if not the best, Americano I have placed my bijou lips upon to sip then you know it is something.
So to answer your previous rhetorical question, this is a review for yet another coffee shop. And it is one I long to revisit soon. The morning was crisp, but sunny. The breeze attempted to cut through my wool dress coat, but I had come prepared. As I traveled, I began to wonder if I was mistaken on the address. I was going deeper and deeper into a neighborhood, though soon enough I began to see the shops. Various services, restaurants, a bodega, and yes this coffee house seemed to serve as its center. I had previewed the building, via Yelp photos, and knew I wanted a window seat. One awaited. As I settled in and removed my gloves I placed my standard first visit order, an Americano. Let me take a moment to explain why.
Now first let me clarify that an Americano is NOT a watered down cup of coffee. Though there are arguments that it should be one shot of espresso to two shots of hot water vs two shots of espresso to one shot of hot water, we can all agree it is a different flavor than a traditional cup of coffee. I use it as a standard for these reasons; 1) it shows me the quality of the beans purchased and the roasting method of the roastery and 2) it shows me the quality of the barista [and ergo, their training] by their ability to pull an espresso shot(s) and balance it perfectly with the hot water.
That said, the cup was soon empty. I knew I was in for a beautiful experience as I swirled the cup and inhaled the aroma. There was no "bite" that is often smelt with espresso. Instead it was a smooth, chocolate opening up as one does a fine pour of bourbon. If I had to guess I would say it was a 2:1 ratio (espresso to water). Such a masterpiece. But I wanted more. Having reached a level of coffee I knew was already beyond my usual quota, I decided to be more daring. I ordered the Mocha. If anyone was going to do it right, it would be Prince. And my bravery paid off. Again the chocolate aroma beckoned me as the clear glass rested upon the table. The warm milk and semi sweet cocoa powder, along with that kick of perfect espresso shot, made me feel like a kid again. Only instead of hot chocolate and Saturday cartoons, I was sipping this and longing for a good documentary series to watch.
Listen, if you live near here or are ever in the area (aka, the Bronx) go find yourself a seat. Whether sitting inside by the window or downstairs in the cellar or outside, it doesn't matter. Whatever you order from the menu is the focus, as it should be. read more