In Search of Caffeine: Red Bicycle Cafe

One of my favorite things to do is to discover coffee shops. Both Priscilla and I have an affinity for coffee shops. Yes, we love coffee. But it's not just that. It's the entire experience. The smell of coffee. Sitting in cool places full of sounds, people studying, cool art. It is just such a pleasure to sit in at a table with a fresh espresso, some books, my computer, a little music. I like sitting by the window so I can be both inside and outside at the same time.

Priscilla and I have spent much time together in cafes. Many of our dates were to a local coffee shop. We got to know each other by drinking coffee together. So I always have warm memories and feelings when I'm in a cafe. 

Since moving to North Carolina, we've been on the hunt for the best local coffee shops. There are some not bad ones around here. 

Our favorite is Jubala in Raleigh. These guys are real coffee connosieurs and the ambience is clean, light and fun. But there is an unfortunate feature of Jubala. They keep a smoking hot waffle iron on at all times, and it smokes up the place so bad, I get massive headaches. That can't be good for anyone. Smoking industrial cooking grease and flakes of waffle. Not good. You leave the place and your clothes smell of smoke, your eyes burn and your lungs cry for help. We can't go back because of this. It's too bad.

Because of this, we've mostly been frequenting our local Starbucks, which for a chain place, is pretty good. Coffee is not amazing, but our local one is small, cozy, and most importantly, has a granite bar where I can stand and work instead of sitting. Since last year, I've tried to sit as little as possible. Sitting kills, don't you know?

But today, Priscilla asked to try someplace new. We had driven past Red Bicycle Cafe in Chapel Hill last week. We then went home and researched and saw good reviews. So today we decided to come here.

It's charming. Lots of natural light. Plenty of tables. Not too crowded. Free internet! And importantly, good coffee. We got a 3 shot macchiato. Very tasty. Not too bitter. I need that kind of caffeine jolt to do what I have to do this afternoon - study for my Ob/Gyn shelf (God help me).

But at least I'll go through this travail in comfort. My beautiful bride is sitting across from me, doing her thing, and enjoying an espresso. Life is good :)