Lavazza prides itself on bringing to America not just authentic Italian coffee and food, but also an Italian atmosphere. The tables are small, round, and marble and one can enjoy their fare at the table or at a small marble bar. The décor is interesting and includes spoon and coffee cup artworks that hang decoratively from the ceiling. The vibe is relaxed, and visitors need not dress in any particular style.

CROWD

Although the clientele seems mainly adult, possibly due to the surrounding businesses, children would feel more than at home and happy with Lavazza’s gelato creations.

ENTERTAINMENT / EVENTS

Although not exactly an “event,” Lavazza serves breakfast as well as lunch. Why is that special? Because they bake all their own croissants and muffins right there in the stores. And, when you order an orange juice, you’ll see it being squeezed fresh, right in front of you.

SRIRITS

There are no spirits, per se, to be found at Lavazza, but let’s use this section to discuss the amazing array of coffee creations that can be found there. Lavazza uses its own blend of coffee beans to put together drinks that many in America don’t know exist. For instance, the Caffe’ Shakerato is a cold espresso, served in a martini glass, with sweet foam on top. The Cappugiro, an inverted cappuccino that is served in layers, will mix together right in front of you to form a very tasty drink. Also, the Delle Alpi, which is not yet on the menus, is an espresso served over acacia honey, topped with whipped cream and Italian almond brittle. For those that prefer something without espresso, try the Mokachoc, a delicious thick warm chocolate poured over a layer of condensed milk, with whipped cream and chocolate shavings or syrup. Mix it together and it’s like a thick, syrupy drinking chocolate. Lavazza also serves Blendissimos (or Blendissimi, for you grammatically correct Italian speakers) that are a mix of coffees or juices and gelato. Fantastico! Keep in mind that Lavazza is very big on presentation so, to get the ultimate experience, stay and enjoy your treat in the café.

GRUB

Besides being coffee perfectionists, Lavazza has some of the best bruschetta available west of Italy. Also, try the caprese salad. The fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil combination is very light and extremely fresh. Lavazza also serves baguette and grilled focaccia sandwiches and panini. There are several varieties, including ones for vegetarians. For dessert, or maybe for breakfast, visitors must try the Espesso, an edible espresso. Voted one of the best inventions of 2006 by Time Magazine, the espresso is a semi-solid version of the liquid drink. You can choose from plain espresso, macchiato (eat your milk!) or a cappuccino, which has the espresso and milk combined before the solidifying process. Not quite a mousse and definitely not a liquid, one will certainly enjoy eating their treat with a small spoon that has a hole in it. This is a treat that cannot leave the store and must be eaten there.

PRICES

For all this authenticity and the gorgeous presentation, Lavazza’s prices are practically a steal. Espresso specialties run in to $2.49 - $3.29 range, the baguettes are $5.75-6.75, and the focaccia sandwiches are $3.75-$6.75, depending on the kind you order.

WHY IT’S UNIQUE

Lavazza is like an institution in Italy. Each year, Lavazza puts out a calendar that Italians can’t wait to receive. This year’s theme is a sort of super hero theme with dark overtones. Ask for it at the café. Coffee served like this gives Americans a truly special treat that can’t be found anywhere else in the country. With its amazingly fresh food, creative drinks, and authentic Italian atmosphere, Lavazza is not to be missed.

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