Cafe Java

Cafe Java
Originally uploaded by Rollofunk.

Espresso is a very serious matter. Let me explain why: It is just the right size to be enjoyed while on the move. Buy a latte and you're stuck for at least 20 minutes trying to gulp it down, whle an espresso can take anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes. It's flexible, has plenty of effect and it's a good excuse to stop and watch the crowd for a while.

Cafe Java in Helsinki is the norm to which I compare all other espresso's. For me, the drink itself is just one part of the whole (but needs to be drinkable, however. Any espresso that makes my face muscles twitch is a no go). A good espresso experience is built up of the following points:

-The quality and taste of the espresso.
-The view from the table.
-The design of the cup.
-The water
-The chocolate (it should be dark and bitter).
-Staff of the cafe.
-Other cafe clients.

Cafe Java has the best combination so far out of all the places in the world I've visited. Sure that Starbucks in Shibuya has a good view, but the atmosphere was too hectic, and the espresso was really good in Florence, but there was nothing to see outside the window. Still, all things put together makes Java the number one, and I will use it as default when visiting other espresso serving establishments. These visits will be reported here as well, and by christmas this blog might be a pretty good cafe guide at least.