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St. Kilda Coffee


See updates at the end.

I don't normally frequent or write about the big chain coffee houses, but I wandered into St. Kilda thinking it was a NYC shop. Instead it's an Aussie outfit. I don't know how many shops they have  since the locations page on their website is blank at the moment. They stock "curated" coffees from a few different roasters and the quality is reflected in the prices. 

Their espresso drinks are all derived from an Ethiopian bean, which was lovely and fruity, hints of chocolate backing up the fruit. 

Tried the decaf, which was also fruity, with a nice lactic acid note, but maybe a blend. The barista didn't know what was in the decaf and unfortunately didn't bother to check around and find out, even though it was an exceptionally slow easy early morning. That would be my only knock against the place. If you are an expensive boutique coffee shop with indications everywhere that you take your coffee quality and connoisseurship seriously, then respond accordingly when a patron expresses interest in those things.*

It is a small space, but that's midtown Manhattan for you and not designed for comfort - again, welcome to Manhattan. 

Great coffee if that's all you need. Worth a little extra. Not a place to hang out for a while.

*UPDATE: 

I returned because I liked the coffee so much, it's near my school, opens at 7:30, and it's a good medium-length (for me) bicycle ride from home. Different barista today who was more engaged. Immediately identified the decaf espresso as the same Ethiopian used for regular espresso (only decaffeinated, of course), and described the characteristics of Ethiopian coffees in general terms, not just the tasting notes on these particular beans.  That's how it's done.


Ratings (1-5 cups)

Coffee:




Ambiance/Comfort:



Space/Size:





Price (3 is average):
 

 


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