The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot

Local Coffee Shops with The Worst Service

2010-05-25T15:33:00.004-04:00

I know a lot of people are not going to like this post because it may mention one or more of their favorite local coffee shops, however I feel that this list of the three local shops with the worst service has been warranted. If you disagree, feel free to share a comment and tell The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot, why that shop doesn't deserve to be on the worst service list.

Here we go...

(1) Kiva Han - I visit this shop often, that's no lie, because they have great coffee and great food. Plus the atmosphere is the classic 'quirky college coffee shop' and it certainly pleases, but the service does not. Almost every time I visit Kiva Han, alone or with friends, and place an order something from the order is usually forgotten. Some may say that is a trivial mistake, but I work in customer service, and one important rule is to always be attentive to the paying customer and when an employee can never seem to get an order straight, it can be a turn off. Needless to say, the end result is always up to par and I wouldn't stop giving Kiva Han my service.

(2) The Beehive - I haven't been to The Beehive in over a year and don't plan on ever going back. This is definitely one of the coffee shops with the worst service. The employees are rude and to top if off, the coffee isn't even that great. The atmosphere at The Beehive is unwelcoming in my opinion and not worth putting up with for a cup of coffee when there is so many other great local places.

(3) Morning Glory Coffeehouse - This shop takes the cake for bad service. The food is great, the coffee is so-so (the fancy cappuccino art that make in the foam deserves more recognition) and the service is terrible. This shop has such an attitude about that totally ostracises many of the local community members who would otherwise frequently visit this very convenient shop. This is the closest shop to me, out of the three of this list, and I hardly ever go to it. I always feel unwelcome when I visit this shop. When it was first opening I know a lot of the local community members were apprehensive at first, however the social gap can not be closed if the shop itself refuses to stop being apprehensive to the community.

Summer Coffee Recipes

2010-05-05T12:05:00.004-04:00

Summer is in the air and so is the graduation season. College and high school students around the world will be celebrating graduations over the next few months. We all know one of the *most* important parts of the graduation party is the menu. So spice up your Summer par-tay menu with these great coffee recipes that will surly make a Summer classic a phenomenal recreation.

Our first recipe will be a great side dish with burgers, franks or sausage -Brandied Coffee Baked Beans. These only take about ten minutes to prepare and spice up traditional baked beans with molasses, brandy and of course, coffee.

Coffee Barbecue Sauce -the second recipe- is a great glaze for meats prepared on the grill. The coffee gives this Summer fav an extra kick of tang.

The third recipe is a light and aromatic, fresh citrus side of Coffee Risotto. This side would be great with fish or sandwiches. Another ten minute recipe that combines instant coffee, with two popular Summer flavors vanilla and orange. This recipe will surely surprise your graduation party guests.

And finally, we can't forget dessert! Guests will be delighted by Palm Beach Brownies with Chocolate Covered Mints! These brownies are extra rich thanks to the espresso added to the mix.

Try some or all of these coffee recipes at your grad party and congrats to all who are taking the next step and celebrating their academic accomplishments.

Take some pics of yourself and your guests at your grad party (enjoying a cup of joe or a coffee recipe) and share them with The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot! Post them on Facebook (link to The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot FB page via the side bar on the right) or e-mail them to gfranciscus@gmail.com and they will be posted on the blog!

Half Price Books: Bargain Bar

2010-04-27T12:59:00.005-04:00

This weekend I visited the Half Price Books location on McKnight Road in the North Hills. I go to Half Price Books, a lot. Half Price Books is a used and new book store, which opened it's first location in 1972 in Dallas, TX. Half Price Books sales books, magazines, dvds, cds, vinyl albums and more at discounted prices. You can even turn in your old books and other items for a stipend. Half Price Books stores are in 16 states, with four Pennsylvania locations:

Ross Park Mall Area 4932 McKnight Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15237

Monroeville Area 3757 William Penn Hwy. Monroeville, PA 15146

Robinson Area 219 Summit Park Dr. Pittsburgh, PA 15275

South Hills Area 4000 Oxford Dr. Bethel Park, PA 15102

This weekend when I was at Half Price Books I noticed something more that the North Hills location offers that made my visit even more enjoyable, a complimentary coffee bar. That's right. One of my favorite things to encounter. If featured fresh brewed coffee, a few different varieties of powdered creamers and various sugar packets. This coffee was deliciously warm and pleasant as I sipped out it and browsed through dvds and books.

Also, another complimentary coffee bar alert! The new Market District Giant Eagle at Robinson, 100 Settlers Ridge Center Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15205, features a free sample coffee bar at the far left side of the super-duper market, past the pharmacy and right next door to the olive oil and vinegar bar (take the virtual tour here). This is quite possibly the largest and most intricut Giant Eagle I have ever been in. At this coffee bar you can also pick from a vast selection of coffee beans, grind them yourself or have the Giant Eagle employee grind them for you for purchase. And for you tea-lovers, the Market District coffee bar was also featuring fresh brewed tea samples.

Is there a complimentary coffee bar that The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot doesn't know about? Share it with us!

Special Thanks...

2010-04-19T23:44:00.002-04:00

After I made a visit to the Steamers coffee shop Downtown last week, I realized how much I appreciate all of my followers and readers of The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot! It's great to know that my blog posts are being read and enjoyed by many.

Thanks!

Pocket Coffee -A Sweet, Bite Size Treat

2010-04-05T12:04:00.007-04:00

So, yesterday the Easter Bunny ;) left me a sweet treat in my basket, Ferrero's Pocket Coffee. I'm sure some of may have never heard of this chocolate before.

Ferrero America is the company that produces Ferrero Rocher chocolates, however the Ferrero Italy branch of the company is responsibile for Pocket Coffee and other imported favorites, Nutella and Kinder.

Pocket Coffee is a creamy, dark choclate shell, when bitten, releases a gush of espresso. It's very rich and very surprising. I didn't expect this candy to be so full of coffee, I though there would just be a small dab, not a mouthfull! This truely is a shot of Italian espresso in your pocket!

I have noticed this treat, as well as other Ferrero Italia products at Pennsylvania Macaroni Company in the historic, Strip District. I also found another great review of this product at CandyBlog.

Watch a YouTube video for Pocket Coffee here!

Have you tried Pocket Coffee? Tell The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot all about it!

Steamers Coffee & Tea: Downtown Pittsburgh's Hidden Coffee Oasis

2010-03-31T12:05:00.002-04:00

I can't deny it, I absolutely love the Steamers Coffee and Tea Downtown location. It just simple delivers the best service, coffee options and menu around.

I've been visiting Steamers a lot and not just because it is in such close proximity to my college at 307 Fourth Ave, The Bank Tower, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. Steamers menu is lite and delicious, featuring paninis, salads, fruit cups, yogurt parfaits, sweets, cookies, pepperoni rolls and of course a vast selection of coffee and tea drinks. They have a great no-guilt, light menu of coffee drinks featuring sugar free syrups (my fav is def the Hawaiian coffee).

The service at Steamers is amazing and the atmosphere is quaint with a lounge room in the back, great for meetings or even getting some homework done!

Steamers is a family owned business, since 2003, with three locations in Cranberry, New Castle and Downtown.

The Steamers Downtown location is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Visit their Web site to receive a coupon for the Downtown location and for more information.

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot Celebrating Over a Year of Blogging!

2010-02-23T13:35:00.002-05:00

As I'm sure most of you know, The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot, has celebrated its first birthday on January 26th, 2010.
The PGH Coffee Pot has grown a lot over it's first year in the blog-o-sphere and I would like to extend a thank you to everyone who has contributed to and followed the blog. Keep reading and keep sending me your comments and critiques.

Thanks again!

Keep the coffee brewing,
Gloria and The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot

Coffe Kids

2010-01-20T14:23:00.003-05:00

I found this web site, www.coffeekids.org, yesterday when I was surfing the web.

This is an organization that helps coffee-farming families improve their quality of life. Their staff works with local organizations in Latin America to create programs in education, health awareness, micro credit and food security. These efforts allow coffee farmers to reduce their dependence on the volatile coffee market.

Anyone can help by donating or supporting members. There are already over 400 businesses that support this organization.

You can check out the ck blog or web site for more info!

An Interesting Story

2010-01-19T12:38:00.004-05:00

So this is pretty funny! The other day some family friends came over to visit and exchange (belated) Christmas gifts.

After talking for awhile, they gave me my gift. A $20 Gift Certificate to Istanbul (formerly Your Inner Vagabond) and a set of gift cards equaling $10 for Mocha Marianne's (formerly Bank Tower Coffee). I thanked them and they giggled to themselves, explaining they had quite a story to tell me.

In the weeks before Christmas, they were trying to decide what kind of gift to get me. They wanted to buy a gift card, but they wanted to buy one that was unique. They knew I loved coffee and decided to do some research for some cool and different places on the web.

When they sat down at the computer, they searched for unique coffee shops in Pittsburgh and stumbled across what they called "a great coffee blog". Unbeknownst to them, it was mine! They couldn't believe what they found.

Wrap-up -Christmas Countdown Tips

2010-01-19T11:16:00.004-05:00

Tip #25: Merry Christmas!

Tip #24: It's Christmas Eve! Enjoy an elegant dinner at Enrico's Ristorante in Shady Side and finish off dessert with a cup of La Prima Espresso.

Tip #23: Treat a special female coffee lover with coffee themed jewlery from www.coffee-wear.com

Tip #22: Find unique coffee ornaments at Cafe Press.com and trim the tree!

Tip #21: Bring a warm travel mug full of your fav brew with you when picking out a real Christmas tree.

Tip #20: "Music for Coffee Beings" is a great stocking stuffer for the coffee drinker that loves great coffee tunes. Buy at www.musicforcoffeebeings.com

Tip #19: Be charitable this season and volunteer to serve coffee (and meals) at a homeless shelter or a nursing home.

Tip #18: Include children in the holiday coffee and conversation by serving them a decaffeinated blend.

Tip #17: Shop for coffee colored clothing at www.mixnshop.com/?color=coffee

Tip #16: Stick to news years resolutions and drink fresh brewed coffee, with zero calorie sugar and zero calorie creamer instead of buying coffee shop drinks loaded with sugar and empty calories.

Tip #15: Instead of milk and cookies, maybe Santa would like like some fresh brewed coffee. The extra jolt would help him get through Christmas Eve.

Tip #14: There are tons of coffee books to give as a gift to a coffee lover. Try Chicken Soup for The Coffee Lover's Soul.

Tip #13: If the hustle and bustle and the holiday and new year season is making you drag, try coffee flavored caffeine supplements to give you a boost.

Tip #12: Give a gift card! Your Inner Vagabond coffee house has changed to Istanbul, a Mediterranean Eatery and Lounge. It still has the same great atmosphere, food, coffee and live music.

Tip #11: If you run out of peppermint flavored coffee and you're in a jam, try placing a few tabs of peppermint mints on top of your ground coffee. When the water filters through while the coffee is brewing, it will flavor the coffee.

Christmas Countdown: Hint #10: Hanukkah Coffee Mugs

2009-12-11T11:20:00.000-05:00

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's

Christmas Countdown!

There are 14 days until Christmas!

Hint #10: Hanukkah Coffee Mugs

If you or someone you know is celebrating Hanukkah this holiday season and is a fan of coffee here are some great coffee mug gifts.

Zazzle.com has a fun and funky selection of Hanukkah coffee mugs. You can even pick a design and choose which style of mug you would like to place it one. You can choose between travel mugs, classic mugs or frosty mugs.

This personalized gift can be a special treat for someone special in your life.

Christmas Countdown: Hint #9: Coffee Gifts

2009-12-10T09:36:00.002-05:00

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's

Christmas Countdown!

There are 15 days until Christmas!

Hint #9: Coffee Gifts

Is there a coffee lover in your life that you want to find the ultimate coffee gift for? I found a Web site today while I was browsing the web that had great coffee gifts. The Web site is called Find Gift.com and it has some really interesting stuff.

On the Web site you can create an account and search gifts and purchase them online for Christmas. You can even set up a gift registry.

Some of my favorte coffee gifts are the Starbucks Eye Opener Gift Basket for $39.95, the Mr. and Mrs. Mugs Gift Set for $24.99, and the French Press Basket for $44.99.

I'm sure anyone can find the perfect gift to give or receive the Christmas season on this Web site.

Christmas Countdown: Hint #8: Coffee Eggnog Punch Recipe

2009-12-09T12:40:00.008-05:00

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's

Christmas Countdown!

There are 16 days until Christmas!

Hint #8: Coffee Eggnog Punch Recipe

This recipe is sure to be a crowd pleaser. This seems great for holiday parties.

I found the recipe below for Coffee Eggnog Punch at About.com.

A Christmas punch recipe made with eggnog, coffee and coffee ice cream, whiskey or bourbon, and spices.

Ingredients:

2 quarts chilled purchased eggnog
1/3 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
3 tablespoons instant coffee granules
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 to 1 cup whiskey or bourbon
1 quart coffee ice cream
sweetened whipped cream
freshly grated nutmeg

Preparation:

Combine eggnog, brown sugar, instant coffee and spices in a large mixing bowl; beat at low speed with an electric mixer until sugar dissolves. Chill 15 minutes; stir until coffee granules dissolve and stir in whiskey. Cover and chill at least 1 hour. Pour into punch bowl or individual cups, leaving enough room for ice cream. Top with scoops of ice cream. Garnish each serving as desired with whipped cream and a grating of nutmeg.

Christmas Countdown: Hint #7: Low Acid Coffee

2009-12-09T12:40:00.006-05:00

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's

Christmas Countdown!

There are 17 days until Christmas!

Hint #7: Low Acid Coffee
If you or a holiday guest are sensitive to the acidity in coffee and can't drink it because it gives you hurtburn, indegestion or upset stomach you can try a low-acid coffee brew so you can still enjoy a favorite beverage.

Brands such as, Hevla and Puroast, can be bought in stores or on-line and brewed just how you like it.

Christmas Countdown: Hint #6: Coffee Ice Cubes

2009-12-09T12:39:00.003-05:00

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's

Christmas Countdown!

There are 18 days until Christmas!

Hint #6: Coffee Ice Cubes

Coffee Ice Cubes can save a cold coffee drink. You can use fresh brewed or left over coffee to make coffee ice cubes. Just pour the coffee into an ice cube tray and freeze and hooray! coffee ice cubes for everyone. Coffee ice cubes are great in cold coffee drinks because its saves the coffee from being watered down and loosing flavor when regular ice cubes start to melt.

Christmas Countdown: Hint #5: Coffee Lotion

2009-12-09T12:17:00.002-05:00

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's

Christmas Countdown!

There are 19 days until Christmas!

Hint #5: Coffee Lotion

This time of year can be harsh on skin, drying and it out and bumming out people. Well, here is a great solution and also a great stocking stuffer! Coffee lotion!

BodyCoffee Natural Body Lotion combines the therapeutic benefits of coffee with other healing ingredients.

BodyCoffee can be purchased online or in select stores. The closest locations that sell BodyCoffee are Blue Bell (at Citrus), Hershey and Philadelphia, PA.

Some of the most intriguing and products sure to please any girl are the Espresso Citron foaming exfoliate, the original BodyCoffee Body Balm and the soon to be released Coffee Bean Bath Bars.

Christmas Countdown: Hint #4: Mocha Toffee Bars Recipe

2009-12-05T13:27:00.003-05:00

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's

Christmas Countdown!

There are 20 days until Christmas!

Hint #4: Mocha Toffee Bars

Last night at Lawrenceville's Joy of Cookies Tour I tried Mocha Toffee Bars at Divertido, an eclectic gift boutique on Butler Street. These cookie bars would be the perfect treat to serve at a holiday party. They were rich, but not too sweet and they had just enough espresso for that coffee jolt. The recipe is listed below -courtesy of Gourmet Magazine and Lawrencville's 2009 Joy of Cookies Tour.

Ingredients:

2 sticks (1 cup) softened, unsalted butter
1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1 egg yolk
1.5 teaspoons vanilla
3 tablespoons instant espresso power dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups all-purpose flour
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
3/4 cup salted, roasted chopped cashews

Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a bowl with an electric mixer, cream the butter, add the brown sugar and beat the mixture until light and fluffy.
Beat in the yolk, add the vanilla and the espresso mixture, a little at a time, beating, and beat the mixture until combined well.
Add the salt and flour, beating, and beat the mixture again until combined well.
Spread the batter evenly in a jelly-roll pan (15.5" x 10.5" x 1") and bake in the middle of the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until it pulls away slightly from the edge of the pan.
Spread the chocolate, melted evenly over the baked layer and sprinkle the cashews over it.
Let the mixture cool in the pan on a rack, cut into bars and chill for 15 to 20 minutes, or until chocolate in firm.
Enjoy!

Makes 48 cookies.

Christmas Countdown: Hint #3: The Joy of Cookies Tour

2009-12-04T16:53:00.003-05:00

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's
Christmas Countdown!
There are 21 days until Christmas!

Hint #3: The Joy of Cookies Tour

Looking for a festive night out on the town? Go to Lawrenceville's tenth annual The Joy of Cookies Cookie Tour.

The Cookie Tour began last night on December 3 and continues until December 6.

>Times of Event: Friday- 10am to 8pm

Saturday- 10am to 6pm

& Sunday- 11am to 5pm

The Cookie Tour features 21 cookie stops that span from the intersection of McCandless St. and Butler St. all the way to the intersection of Butler and 36th Street. That's about 2 miles long!

The Cookie Tour also boasts 10 Take A Break stops where patrons are welcome to grab a bit to eat and grab a steaming hot cup of coffee.

Some of the Cookie Stops (marked with LV's signature Gingerbread Cookie signs) are new to the area, like Wildcard, while others are community staples, such as Wagner Quality Shoes.

For a complete list of participating businesses and a map of the tour route please visit www.lawrencevillecorp.com/events/

I will be attending the Cookie Tour for the first time be sure to check back at The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot blog for my take on the event.

Christmas Countdown: Hint #2: What to do with Left-Over Coffee

2009-12-03T12:32:00.000-05:00

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's

Christmas Countdown!

There are 22 days until Christmas!

Hint #2: What to do with Left-Over Coffee

During the holidays we seem to always pile up a lot of left-overs and coffee is not an exception. How many times have you brewed a pot for company and are still left with some coffee that noone drank? Happens all the time to me and I hate throwing out the coffee. Here are some tips for what you could use that left-over coffee for.

Left-over coffee can be used in several recipes, including marinades, BBQ sauce, glazes and chili. But, one of the most common is gravy.

Here is a recipe for Red Eye Gravy from a VisualRecipes.com.

Red eye gravy is well known in the South, but little known in the rest of the United States. Also called bird-eye gravy, poor man's gravy, red ham gravy, and muddy gravy, it is made from drippings and black coffee, although some debate that using water is better.

Step: 1> Cook Thick cut country ham approximately 10-12 minutes per side on medium heat. turn your slices and continue turning until all the slices are brown. Remove country ham to platter.

Step: 2> Turn heat up a bit and add to the drippings 1/4 cup of perked coffee per slice of ham and let simmer a couple of minutes.

Step: 3> Red Eye Gravy at its best! To be served over hot grits, eggs, biscuits, or the ham slices.

Coffee gravy recipes are a tasty and resourceful holiday secret. Try one and let The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot know how it was!

Christmas Countdown: Hint #1: One-Cup Coffee Makers

2009-12-01T15:58:00.007-05:00

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's
Christmas Countdown!
There are 23 days until Christmas!

Hint #1: One-Cup Coffee Makers

Do you have alot of guests visiting or staying with you over the holiday season? If you do and they are coffee lovers, it can very difficult to please everyone. Individual coffee drinkers prefer individual coffee drinks over others and when you have a houseful of friends and family there can be an easy fix to making sure everyone has their fav cup o' joe.

One-Cup coffee makers can save the day! A One-Cup coffee maker brews a single cup of coffee at a time and you can even invest in pre-measured, pre-ground coffee that comes in a vast variety of brands and flavors sure to satisfy even the pickiest coffee drinker.

One-Cup coffee makers can get pretty pricey -reaching up to over $200.00. But with the holiday shopping taking its toll, you don't have to break the piggy bank to invest in a One-Cup coffee maker. Check out this one for only $89.99! (Pictured above -courtesy of Bed, Bath and Beyond Web site).

With the Keurig B30 Personal Brewer you can purchase K-Cups -pre-measured, pre-flavored coffee so each guest can have the perfect brewed cup of their perfect blend. K-Cups (pictured above) and others like them range from Starbucks brand to Seattle's Best Coffee and many, many more. You can even dress up a kitchen counter top and transform it into a coffee bar with a K-Cup carousel (Also pictured above) or another style holder.

One-Cup Coffee Makers are sure to ease some stress this holiday season.

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's Christmas Countdown

2009-12-01T15:49:00.009-05:00

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's

Christmas Countdown!

There are 24 days until Christmas!

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot is pleased to announce its first annual Christmas Countdown. Everyday leading up to Christmas the PGH Coffee Pot will feature a post with a helpful holiday hint revolving around gift, recipe or decoration ideas!

Make sure to stop by everyday until Christmas to catch up on some new and interesting coffee information to make this holiday season is extra special and joyous.

If you have any suggestions please feel free to share them in a comment.

Harvest Coffee Cider

2009-10-15T12:00:00.000-04:00

The air is crisp and the leaves and starting to change. The harvest season is in full effect and there is nothing better then warming up with a steaming cup of coffee after picking pumpkins from the pumpkin patch or taking a scenic drive through the country side to see the Fall foliage. This recipe for Harvest Coffee Cider will cretaintly do the trick!

¼ cup coffee grounds
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ cup brown sugar or honey
1 cup apple juice
3 cups cold water

Place coffee and cinnamon in brew basket of coffee maker. Place sugar and apple juice in the bottom of the coffee pot. Add water to coffee maker and brew. When brewing is complete, stir until well mixed. This recipe tends to be a little messy, so using powder DIP-IT is especially helpful when cleaning the stains off your carafe and brewing basket and for always attaining the best tasting coffee. For cleaning the water circulation system, use the liquid form.

And don't forget warm Pumpkin Patch Muffins would go great with Harvest Coffee Cider!

October Coffee Events

2009-10-14T12:00:00.000-04:00

Looking for something to do this month? Check out these events!

*Coffee Education Talk
coffeedestroyslifes.blogger.com
July 17, 2009 to November 20, 2009
Near The Cathedral of Learning
773-432-4094
An Informative talk and gathering and meet up about coffee culture and art.

*Armstrong County Fall Foliage Tours
Belmont Complex
October 13 -16, 2009
Meet up at Belmont Complex for a fascinating bus tour of Armstrong County.
Fees start at $10. Daytime and evening tours are available, with either lunch or dinner served. For more information, contact The Armstrong County Tourist Bureau at (888) 265-9954.

Pumpkin Farms and Festivals
*Plus there are several Pumpkin Farms and Fall Festivals in and around Pittsburgh that offer a lot of fun and activities for the whole family!!

For more October Events please visit Pittsburgh.net!

Autumn Coffee Treats

2009-10-13T15:24:00.003-04:00

Fall has arrived and this is my favorite time of year, especially for coffee and coffee treats! One of my favorite coffee drinks is simply pumpkin spiced flavored coffee and lattes. I have been trying pumpkin flavored coffee drinks at all of my favorite and local coffee shops. Starbucks is definitely in the lead, with their pumpkin spiced latte, I haven't tried one that has surpassed it yet this season.

With the holiday season approaching some of us my want to save some dough and here is a great recipe for making a pumpkin spice latte at home!

Ingredients:
--2 cups milk (I used 1%)
--2 T canned pumpkin
--2 T white sugar
--2 T vanilla (not a typo. it asks for tablespoons)
--1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice OR: 1/4 tsp cinnamon, 1/8 tsp cloves, 1/8 tsp nutmeg, and a teeny tiny pinch of ground ginger
--1/2 cup brewed espresso or 3/4 cup strong brewed coffee
--garnish with whipped cream (optional)

Directions:
Add the coffee/espresso and milk to the Crock Pot. Whisk in the pumpkin, spices, sugar, and vanilla. Cover and cook on high for 2 hours if everything is cold. Whisk again. Ladle into mugs, and garnish with whipped cream and additional cinnamon.

And what goes best with yummy coffee? Yummy dessert!

Try this festive Chocolate Pumpkin Cake recipe for your next get together or just for a special treat.

Try these recipes and share your experience with The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot!

Recipe: The Power Lift

2009-09-14T19:43:00.004-04:00

The school year is now is full swing and pretty soon students will be staying up late into the night cramming for exams, term papers, presentations and mid-terms and finals. And these students will definitely need some fuel to keep chugging along with all the heavy loads of coursework.

The following recipe from the Web site Coffee Science may quickly become every students go-to-drink to keep awake in the wee hours!

The Power Lift

This coffee banana smoothie is a smart snack before a workout. Yogurt is a stellar source of calcium, the banana adds potassium, wheat germ kicks in extra vitamin E, and coffee contributes some vigor. All the way around, this is a healthful snack. Remember, research shows that caffeine improves physical stamina and may even reduce muscle pain. So enjoy it and then get moo-ving.

1 1/2 cups brewed coffee, cold or at room temperature
2 6-ounce containers plain low-fat yogurt (1 1/2 cups)
2 medium ripe bananas, peeled and sliced
3 to 4 ice cubes
2 tablespoons toasted wheat germ
2 tablespoons honey, or to taste*
* (Use more or less honey depending on the ripeness of the bananas.)

Place all ingredients in a blender container. Cover, and blend on high speed for 1 minute, or until smooth. Pour into 4 glasses. Serve immediately.

Per serving: Calories: 154; Protein: 6 grams; Carbohydrate: 30 grams; Fat: 2 grams; Cholesterol: 5 mg.; Sodium: 63 mg.

*Recipe information courtesy of http://www.coffeescience.org/recipes.

Share how coffee helps you keep going during the school year with The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot!

Help Make A Difference In The World With The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot

2009-09-09T16:10:00.004-04:00

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot is supporting the Invisible Children Foundation. You can too, by engaging with the SocialVibe gadget located along the right side-bar!

Back to School: Coffee Tips

2009-09-08T16:03:00.003-04:00

It's back to school time and we all know what that means! Waking up early, rushing to get ready for work or school and getting back into the morning grind...but that doesn't mean that you should be missing out on your morning coffee grind!

Here are some tips for the coffee lover on the go on how you can still savor your favorite morning treat without interrupting or slowing down your coffee routine!

(1) Instant Coffee
By now, PGH Coffee Pot readers should know I am an advocate of instant coffee. It's everything you love but in a faster and more convenient form. Making your coffee instant in the A.M. will cut your brewing time in half.

(2) Travel Mugs
Even though you are in a hurry to shuttle the kids off to school, beat the traffic to work or catch the bus for school on time doesn't mean that you have to leave your coffee buzz behind. Travel mugs come in many shapes, sizes, colors, and styles so you can have your Joe and drink it too! There's nothing better in the winter months than breathing in the warm steam from your travel mug full of piping hot coffee while you are waiting at the bus stop. I like to have my coffee maker prepared and ready for brewing over night so I can get out faster in the morning. I set my coffee maker up withe the filter and coffee grinds so all I have to do is add the water and plug her in.

(3) Store-Bought Coffee Drinks
They may not always be the best brew or they may not always give you the quickest pick-me-up, but they are as convenient as they come and satisfy the caffeine craving. Store-bought coffee drinks, like Starbucks' bottled Frappucinos, can be purchased at a local grocery store or drug store. You can stock up when you do some weekend grocery shopping and then you can grab-and-go right from you 'fridge in the morning. Not only does this save you time, so you don't have to brew your own coffee or stop a coffee shop and wait in line, but it also saves you money cause sometimes you can by them on-sale.

Keep these tips in mind and remember to always be safe during the morning rush!

Share your tips for speeding up your morning coffee routine with The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot!

Pittsburgh's Best Kept Coffee Secrets

2009-08-26T16:09:00.003-04:00

Pittsburgh is a city with a lot of options for the coffee lover. This is my list of the five best kept coffee secrets in the Burgh.

(1) Your Inner Vagabond
>Located in Lawrenceville
Your Inner Vagabond boasts itself as a world cafe. This shop features a wide range of coffee drinks, lite menu options and desserts imspired by cultures around the world. There is a heavy Turkish theme in items on the menu and in the shop's decor. Your Inner Vagabond also hosts a variety of events, such as movie showings, art exhibitions and belly dancing classes. The cafe can also be rented for weddings or private parties. This is definitly one of the most unique coffee shops in the city.

(2) Uptown Coffee
>Located in Mt. Lebanon
This shop is very quiant and peaceful. It's the kind of place you go to catch up with friends, quietly read a book or grab a cup of coffee before heading to work. The menu has a lot of drink choices, including coffee and tea. One of the best food features is "build-your-own" cafe sandwhich, which allows you to pick your choice of bread, deli meat, cheese and veggies. The result is one fresh and tasteful meal. This coffee shop definelty has a great home away from home feel.

(3) Bank Tower Coffee Shop
>Located Downtown
This coffee shop is located on the first floor of The Bank Tower in Downtown Pittsburgh on the corer of Wood Street and 4th Avenue. This shop has great coffee and great treats. It's hidden away in the shadows of the city skyscrapers and definitely one of the most unnoticed hot spots for coffee in the Burgh. This shop only takes cash, so remember to carry a couple bucks with you when you're Downtown working, shopping or attending an event. When one of the shops regular customers forgets the dough they offer to keep a tab for you, which is a kind gesture many places don't offer this day. This shop reminds me of an old time business with modern delights.

(4) Crepes Parisennes
>Located in Shady Side and Oakland
If you are a lover of anything French, anything unique, or anything cultural this is without a doubt one of the best places for you and one of the best places, period, in Pittsburgh. The Shady Side location is the original one and if its possiable I suggest going there, but you better go early because the places feels up quick and on Saturdays its difficult to find an empty seat. The Shady Side Crepes' atmospehere has the feel of an authentic Paris cafe with stone walls and traditional symbols of Paris' culture, such as the country's flag and the Effiel Tower. The menu is large with, you guessed it! Crepes galore! Some of sweet and filled with fruit preserves or chocolate and others are savory, with veggies and a small side salad. The coffee is strong, bitter and delicieux.

(5) Rivers Casino
>Located on the North Shore.
This last best kept secret may seem like a surprise, but this is definitely one of the best secrets Burgh coffee lovers will want to snoop out. At the Rivers Casino there are several complementary soda and coffee bars scattered throughout the casino. So, while you are enjoying the slots on a night out on the town you don't have to worry about dragging late in the evening when you can enjoy a complimentary coffee and keep on going! When I visited the casino the first week it opened, I didn't leave with any extra money in my pocket, however I did leave with my free warm cup of Joe!

Share your experiences at these shops with The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot or tell us your best kept coffee secret in the Burgh!

Response to Bee Hive Comment

2009-08-04T17:48:00.009-04:00

I always read all of the comments, good or bad, left on The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot and I appreciate them all.

Jamie left the following comment on my most recent post -

I wish you East Enders would stay on your side of the river and
quit bashing everything on the South Side. If the Bee Hive is not your cup of
tea stay away, it is a joint for locals not for everyone from all overr the
city.

First off, I'd like to say that The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot is an open opinion forum and everyone's thoughts and comments are welcome. I don't expect every reader to agree with what I think and I wouldn't want that, because that wouldn't be very fun anyway. However, just like readers opinions are respected, The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's opinions should be as well.

This blog is all about Pittsburgh coffee and that includes every Pittsburgh neighborhood, not just the East End or the South Side, etc. Though I may live on the East End, I'm still Pittsburgher, just like everyone on the South Side.

Secondly, I love the South Side and I frequent that area of town very often. There's lots of places of I love there. I spend time all over the city and all around areas surrounding the city. There are places I don't like and I do like, everywhere.

So, to sum it up, this blog is one coffee lover's opinion for everyone, just like the Bee Hive or any other place is a public business for anyone who wants to go to it.

Thanks and keep looking for what's brewing at The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot!

The PGH Coffee Pot Weighs in on the CP's Picks for the Best Burgh Coffee Shops

2009-07-29T14:37:00.003-04:00

The Pittsburgh City Paper's, CP Magazines: 2009 City Guide features a list of 19 of the city's best coffeehouses. (Bean Counter, p. 16). As a self-proclaimed coffee connoisseur I felt it would be fitting to offer my insight on the places included on the list.

21st Street Coffee and Tea/ Strip District & Downtown
I love 21st Street Coffee and I normally have nothing bad to say about this coffee shop. The coffee has never disappointed with it's pure and fresh taste, however I feel like this place is becoming slightly over-rated. It always tops every list for the best coffee in Pittsburgh and I just feel like "tell me something I don't already know".

61C Cafe/ Squirrel Hill
This place is great! Definitely under-rated. I love the location, the coffee, the desserts. It's a great place for conversation, awesome atmosphere. It's a classic coffee shop with an old Pittsburgh air.

Beehive Coffeehouse and Dessertery/ South Side
This is my least favorite place to get coffee. I think this is the most over-rated, unoriginal and worn out coffee shop around. Every time I have ordered coffee at the Beehive it has disappointed, the atmosphere is clique-ish, the decor is cliche, the service is not customer friendly and the inside of the shop could use and good scrubbing down. For years the Beehive has been hailed as the ultimate haven for the unique and off-beat and the mecca for coffee in Pittsburgh and I feel that its time someone pointed out that the Beehive isn't all its made out to be. Don't waste your time.

Coffee Tree Roasters/ Various Locations
This is a chain coffee shop that doesn't feel like a chain coffee shop. Its definitely one of my favorite shops that I don't get to as much I would like to. Coffee Tree Roasters, is a coffee shop you can go to and forget your in Pittsburgh in.

Crazy Mocha/ Various Locations
I love Crazy Mocha because I love the atmosphere, I love their desserts and lunch items but I'm not a big fan of the coffee. The only drinks I ever order are chai teas or their espresso milkshake. There other coffee based drinks honestly don't do much for me. However, Crazy Mocha is very Pittsburgh, as we speak new locations are opening up everywhere in the city.

Jitters/ Shady Side
This used to be one of my favorite coffee places, but recently it has been disappointing me. I feel like Jitters is trying to be chic because of its location, but I think they're overdoing it. In my opinion Jitters is narrowing its clientele to the Shady Side elite and alienating others. That may be what they want and that's okay, but it's not the shop for me.

Kiva Han/ Oakland
The ultimate college coffee crowd location. Whenever I go to Kiva Han I spend hours there. Great drinks, great food, great location. I highly encourage you to stop by Kiva Han, especially the one of South Craig Street, any time you are visiting Oakland. The only downfall of Kiva Han is that it is always crowded and nearly impossible to find an empty seat, but if your lucky I suggest sticking around for awhile.

Morning Glory Coffeehouse/ Morningside
This coffee shop is less than ten minutes from me and I don't visit it nearly as much as I should. I regret to admit I've only been here once when they first opened. I ordered lunch, which was great and a regular coffee, which could have been a bit better. But, I am giving the shop the benefit of the doubt because it had just opened. I am eagerly looking forward to some free time so I can stop by there again and give them a second try. Since, the first time I went they have grew in popularity and expanded the menu...so keep an eye out for a review of my second experience at Morning Glory Coffeehouse here on the Pittsburgh Coffee Pot!

Te Cafe/ Squirrel Hill
This may be my absolute favorite place on the list. It's cozy and unique. Definitely a place for the intellectual crowd and the experimental. However, I think this is more for the tea lovers in the Burgh, but if their coffee is anywhere near their tea, then it is excellent. Te Cafe, is a place you can't go wrong at.

Unfortunately I can only drink so much coffee at a time and the following places were included on the CP's list, but I have yet to visit them so I could not offer my opinion of them at this time.

*Amani International Coffee House/ North Side
*Arefa's Espresso/ Squirrel Hill
*Big Dog Coffee/ South Side
*Enrico's Tazza D'Oro/ Highland Park
*Espresso on Fourth/ Downtown
*Hoi Polloi/ North Side
*La Prima Espresso/ Strip District
*Make Your Mark Artspace and Coffeehouse/ Point Breeze
*Perk Me Up/ Lawrenceville
*Voluto/ Garfield

Share your opinions on the coffee shops listed in this post and leave a comment!

McDonald's Mocha Madness

2009-07-28T17:35:00.005-04:00

Beginning on Monday, July 13, and continuing every Monday through August 1, customers can enjoy a free hot or iced mocha during McDonald's Mocha Mondays.

August 1st is the last Monday for customers to stop into McDonald's for a free sample. McDonald's is giving out either 8oz. hot mochas or 7oz. iced mochas (while supplies last) between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. (at participating locations).

I have, of course, already enjoyed this special offer. I have sampled both the hot and the iced mocha and I think they are the perfect sized coffee fix to help Mondays go a little bit smoother. The small sizes are perfect to settle that coffee or chocolate craving on the way to the office or if you are dragging in the afternoon.

Share your McDonald's Mocha Monday experience with The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot and tell us what you thought of this limited time offer!

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot on Pittsburgh Bloggers!

2009-06-04T14:59:00.003-04:00

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot is now a featured blog in the on-line web community, Pittsburgh Bloggers.

Pittsburgh Bloggers is a Web site where you can find a listing of all registered Pittsburgh blogs with an ecclectic range of topics.

Check out The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot on Pittsburgh Bloggers!

Check out Pittsburgh Bloggers for local blogs, news, and blogger events!
www.pghbloggers.org

McCafe National Launch & Sweepstakes

2009-06-03T16:31:00.003-04:00

I recently received an e-mail from a Pittsburgh Coffee Pot reader who suggested writing a post about McDonald's National McCafe Launch. This has been the company's most significant launch in 30 years.

The e-mail stated that -McDonald's McCafé beverages include espresso-based coffees such as Cappuccinos, Lattes, Mochas, Iced Lattes and Iced Mochas, as well as hot and iced Premium Roast brewed coffees and hot chocolate. McCafé Coffees are available at participating locations, with more McDonald’s restaurants to be added throughout 2009.

In order to celebrate the McCafe launch McDonald's is offering the readers of The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot Blog to participate in a sweepstakes to win a $50,000 Visa Gift Card.

Let McCafé make your day - You and your readers are invited to submit a story and photo about why you or someone you know deserve a chance to be one of two grand prize winners, each taking home a $50,000 Visa Gift card and a $500 McDonald’s Arch Card. The contest ends on June 21, and you don’t have to buy anything to enter or win. For official rules and to learn more, visit www.mcdonalds.com/mccafe.

You can also follow McCafe on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/mccafeyourday.

For more info on the McCafe Sweepstakes you can contact : Abbey Hartman at ahartmann@golinharris.com.

Thanks Abbey for the e-mail! And good luck to the readers of The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot!

Special Thanks to Sara5889 for her Comment!

2009-06-03T16:20:00.002-04:00

Blogger user Sara5889 left a very nice comment on The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's last post discussing Summer Coffee Events.

Sara is a newcomer to the Pittsburgh area and found this blog to be "awesome" and "very interesting".

"This is an awesome blog! I love that Pittsburgh has such a cultural backbone.I just moved here a couple months ago and this blog is really interesting as a newcomer looking for the inner things to do in the city." she said.

So thank you Sara for checking out The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot and I hope to see you here on the blog more often!

I encourage all who come across the blog to share their thoughts and comments to create an interactive coffee community!

Summer Coffee Events

2009-05-06T15:30:00.004-04:00

Hello all! I apologize for the recent gap in posts but with the end of the semester at Point Park I was swamped with things to do and couldn't find the time to blog. However, now with all of that aside you can expect many weekly posts from The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot.

With Summer fast approaching everyone is always looking for some fun and interesting things to do. Here are some Summer Coffee Events you may be interested.

(Information courtesy of the Post-Gazette Web site)

*UpWords
@ Union Project
May 8, 2009 -7p.m.

"UPWords" is a series of monthly readings by Pittsburgh authors and poets.This month features scientist, poet and fiction writer Lalita Nahorona; and poet Sharon McDermott.Admission is free. Coffee is provided by the Union Project's Youth Barista Program in concert with Starbucks and snacks are sponsored by Whole Foods.

*World Fair Trade Day
@ Ten Thousand Villages (Squirrel Hill)
May 9, 2009

Honor Mother Earth and celebrate World Fair Trade Day with some great music, food and dance."Fair trade" is an organized social movement and market-based approach that aims to help producers in developing countries and promote sustainability. The movement advocates the payment of a "fair price" as well as social and environmental standards in areas related to the production of a wide variety of goods.Ten Thousand Villages, a non-profit store, offers a full day of fun complete with live music performance by local artists like Ishtar, the "world's largest coffee break" and plenty of surprises. For more information, call (412) 421-2160.

*The Gospel Cafe
@ Connections Coffee
May 16, 2009

"The Gospel Café" is a program that welcomes children and provides a nice mix of traditional gospel music with gospel hip-hop hosted by Mele Mel The Poetic Prophet and DJ Goodnight with performances by Mele Mel, COHAD, B.O.N.D.E.D., T.I.G. (Trust In God) and many more.Food provided by K-Sara Catering. This is an all-ages show. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. For more information call (412) 758-1980.

If anyone attends these events share your experience with The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot Blog!

How To Use The Melitta One-Cup Coffee Maker

2009-04-20T11:52:00.004-04:00

Check out this instructional video (starring yours truly!) demonstrating the five easy steps to brewing the perfect cup of coffee using the Melitta One-Cup Coffee Maker!

Have you used the Melitta One-Cup Coffee Maker before? Share your thoughts on it and the video!

Coffee and Health

2009-04-13T11:37:00.004-04:00

On April 13, the Sydney Morning Herald published an article that discusses recent research and studies conducted in the United States that show that woman who consume coffee on a regular basis could possibly lower their risk of suffering from a stroke.

Read the article here...

What are some other health benefits from coffee?

Coffee has also been associated with helping to lower the risk of diabetes, Parkinson's disease and colon cancer. It can elevate mood and reduce headaches. It has even been shown to help prevent cavities.

Read more about the benefits here...

What are some of the negative effects of coffee?

Studies have shown that caffeine, the main ingredient in coffee, is a mildly addictive stimulant. Excessive coffee, or caffeine, consumption can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure as well as irregular heartbeat. Studies have also shown that coffee may contribute to health issues such as cancer, osteoporosis and it could have negative effects on women's breast health.

Read more about the negative effects here...

The Web site, Positively Coffee, is dedicated to bringing countries that produce and consume coffee together and to make a positive contribution to the world of coffee. It offers information, facts and newsletters on important topics concerning coffee health.

The Positively Coffee Web site is a part of the Positive Communication Program of the International Coffee Organization (ICO), an intergovernmental organization for coffee.

What are some of your thoughts on coffee and how it effects health? Is coffee a positive or negative substance when it comes to our bodies? Share you thoughts with The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot!

Coffee Break Community Profile

2009-04-09T16:02:00.003-04:00

Visit The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's Coffee Break Community profile!

http://www.coffeebreakcommunity.com/members/profile/4

Comment on The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's profile or join Coffee Break Community to connect with other coffee lovers!

Join Coffee Break Community: An internet social networking site

2009-04-09T15:25:00.002-04:00

Hey, I received this comment on the blog yesterday from Coffee Break Community. I hope all coffee lovers will join, The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot sure will!

Social Networking Website for Coffee Drinkers
called http://www.CoffeeBreakCommunity.com

The Internets only online Coffee Break Area

ITS FREE TO SIGN UP!
• Create and customize a profile....
• Join groups and plan events with other members
• Keep updated with your group or event's activity
• Message, video chat and IM with other members
• Share photos and music with other members
• Get "Live" News every minute

http://www.CoffeeBreakCommunity.com

Tell The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot what you think the CoffeeBreakCommunity.com!!

Coca-Cola Company Ventures into Coffee Market...again.

2009-04-08T11:51:00.005-04:00

I'm sure we all remember Coke Blak. A fusion a Coca-Cola soda with coffee from a few years back. This was definitely a product that was either loved or hated. In my opinion it tasted like coffee that had been sitting out all day that someone spilt Coke in and also may have dropped their cigarette ashes into it as well. Let's just say I was not the biggest fan of Coke Blak.

However, now the Coca-Cola company is about to branch out into the coffee market once again with Illy Issimo. The Coca-Cola company has partnered with the Italian coffee company Illy, to produce a ready-to-drink coffee drink. Illy Issimo will be competing against the Pepsi-Starbucks ready-to-drink beverages. Illy Issimo is set to launch across the United States and select European markets over the next couple of days. I am anxious to see how this new coffee beverage fares against its competitors.

Do you have an opinion on Illy Issimo, or any of the products mentioned in this blog? Share them at The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot!

Happy 39th Anniversary Seattle's Best Coffee!!

2009-04-06T11:42:00.003-04:00

Forget the Big 4-0...Seattle's Best Coffee is celebrating their 39th Anniversary all month long!

Seattle's Best Coffee was founded in 1970 and is encouraging all of their customers to help them celebrate their 39th year with their Anniversary Blend brew as well as several special offers.

Check out these special events:

FREE COFFEE DAY

April 6: Enjoy a free small (12 fluid ounce) brewed coffee on us at participating Seattle’s Best Coffee cafes (limit of one per guest).

CALLING ALL 39 YEAR OLDS

April 6 – 28: Come in, tell us you’re 39 and receive a free medium (16 fluid ounce) cup of brewed coffee on us at participating Seattle’s Best Coffee cafes (limit of one per guest per day).

COMPLIMENTARY COFFEE WITH PASTRY PURCHASE

April 10 – 12: Buy a pastry and get a medium (16 fluid ounce) cup of Anniversary Roast brewed coffee on us at participating Seattle’s Best Coffee cafes.

39 CENTS A BREW

April 17 – 19: Get a $.39 (plus tax) medium (16 fluid ounce) cup of Anniversary Roast brewed coffee at participating Seattle’s Best Coffee cafes.

BEAN WEEKEND’S BACK

April 24 – 26: Buy a 12-ounce or larger bag of coffee and receive one medium (16 fluid ounce) beverage on us at participating Seattle’s Best Coffee cafes.

Looking for a Seattle's Best Coffee location in the 'Burgh? Here are a few:

Borders - Pittsburgh #457

5986 Penn Circle South

Pittsburgh, PA 15206

412/441-1080

Borders - Pittsburgh #74

1170 Northway Mall

Pittsburgh, PA 15237

412-635-7661

Borders - Monroeville #143

200 Mall Blvd

Monroeville, PA 15146

412-374-9772

McDonald's Coffee Lawsuit

2009-04-01T13:41:00.003-04:00

UNIONTOWN, Pa. — A western Pennsylvania woman is suing McDonald's saying her 11-year-old grandson was scalded by hot coffee in a cup served with a loose lid in a drive-through lane.

Read the rest of the FOXNews.com article here...

FAYETTE COUNTY, Pa. -- A Fayette County woman is suing McDonald's after she said a drive-thru worker spilled a cup of hot coffee on her 11-year-old grandson, burning him.

Read the WPXI.com article or watch the video about the story here...

ROSTRAVER, Pa. -- A Fayette County woman says McDonald's is responsible for burns suffered by an 11-year-old boy after a coffee spill.

Read the entire PittsburghChannel.com article here...

Do you think this lawsuit is justified, why or why not? Share your opinions with The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot!

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot has been Blogged!

2009-03-31T22:53:00.002-04:00

Attention all friends and followers of The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot Blog!

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot is now listed in the coffee blog directory on the web site, Blogged.

Blogged has rated The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot a 7.8-Very Good!

Click on the link in the right hand tool bar and check out the PGH Coffee Pot's profile!

New Survey!

2009-03-30T12:10:00.002-04:00

In the last survey we learned that followers of The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot are mildly addicted to caffeine.

Take the current survey (located in the right-hand sidebar) and tell The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot what your favorite flavor of coffee is!

Breakfast Sandwhiches at Starbucks

2009-03-26T11:10:00.005-04:00

This morning I went to the Market Square Starbucks in Downtown Pittsburgh to get my morning caffeine fix and I discovered that that Starbucks location now sales the Starbucks Breakfast Sandwiches. I was ecstatic and had to give one a try.

I ordered the Sausage English Muffin. A sausage patty, egg and cheese on an Artisan English Muffin. It was surprisingly better than I expected. It was larger than the average breakfast sandwich. The sausage was plump and lean, the egg has a "real" consistency, it wasn't rubbery like some breakfast sandwich eggs. The sausage and egg seemed like they were steamed. It was much better than I though it would be. I ordered that and a tall Carmel Macchiato for only a little over $6. Not too bad, considering that I would be paying the some amount at a number of other cafes or fast-food breakfast outlets.

I haven't been able to find a lot of Starbucks locations that offer the breakfast sandwiches, so this was a surprising treat.

There has been a lot of buzz going around about the Starbucks Breakfast Sandwiches for awhile now. Read some here!

Have you tried a Starbucks Breakfast Sandwich? Share tour thoughts on them here!

New Starbucks Coffee Ice Cream

2009-03-25T14:25:00.003-04:00

Just in time for summer!

Today, an article was published by the Seattle Times that discussed Starbucks' new line of coffee ice cream with four flavors based on coffee drinks sold in Starbucks stores.

Coffee Quiz Scores!

2009-03-25T11:47:00.002-04:00

Kevin tested his coffee knowledge and scored 60%!

Think you can beat his score? Take the quiz now and find out how high your coffee IQ is!

Share your results with The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot Blog!

Test Your Coffee Knowledge

2009-03-23T18:54:00.003-04:00

Take this awesome coffee quiz I created! Have fun and NO cheating!

Quizzes by Quibblo.com

Share your results with The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot blog!

Caffeine Consumption

2009-03-23T13:19:00.004-04:00

Many people like to drink coffee for the energy rush it gives them from the caffeine content. I work at a CVS Pharmacy as a cashier and every time I work I ring up a countless number of people who are buying coffee, energy drinks, caffeine suppliments and food or other products that contain caffeine. I started to wonder just how much caffeine was in these items and at the end of the day just how much caffeine are we consuming.

I gathered some info from the MedecineNet.com Web site and complied it in a chart below. Check it out to see how much caffeine you consumed today.

Share your reactions or comments with The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot!

Click here to see a larger image!

Flavored Coffee

2009-03-19T16:44:00.003-04:00

I am an avid lover of flavored coffee. The wackier it is...the better.

I recentlt tried a flavored coffee, called Warm Apple Pie. The coffee is made by Beaumont Coffee, a product sold at ALDI, a low cost supermarket.

At first I was sceptical of how this flavor would taste. When I cut open the packet, the smell of the ground coffee was not too appealing. The apple scent seemed artificial and its mix with the coffee smelt unpleasant. Not unpleasant in a gross way, by unpleasant in a synthetic way.

When the coffee began to brew the warm aroma of freshly baked apple pie filled the air. I poured myself a generous cup. And added a light portion of cream and a pinch of sugar. I took a deep breath before drinking the first sip anticipating dissapointment. Wow! I couln't have been happier with the flavor of that coffee. The ratio of fresh coffee taste and the apple pie flavoring was perfect. The drink was comforting like hot apple cider and robust like traditional coffee.

This is definitely a flavored coffee I would encourag everyone to try!

What are some of the most popular flavors for coffee? Check out this article from the Associated Content Web site and found out!

What is your favorite flavored coffee? Share yours with The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot!

Starbucks and Instant Coffee

2009-03-19T11:00:00.000-04:00

In February 2009, Starbucks announced that they would release a new product in March, Starbucks VIA Ready Brew, an instant coffee.

In an online article from February 17 from CNN Money.com, the Starbucks Corporation chief executive stated that this is the company's way of fighting "misperceptions about affordability" for the coffee chain's brand.

Starbuck's VIA pack is offered in two varieties, Columbia -Latin America-Medium and Italian Roast-Specialty Roast-Extra Bold, according to the Starbucks Web site.

A single packet of VIA will sale for less than $1, a three pack is offered for $2.95 and 12 packs for $9.95, according to the CNN Money.com article.

VIA is currently only offered in Starbucks stores located Seattle, WA and Chicago, IL. However, locations in London will be coming soon, according to the Starbucks Web site. I am anxious to try this instant coffee.

I feel that most coffee drinkers either love or hate instant coffee. I was once very sceptical of it, but then I tried the Nescafe instant coffee. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. It tasted just as good as a fresh brewed cup of coffee and it only took minutes to make.

Starbucks VIA has been receiving positive reviews on the company's Web site.

Have you tried Starbucks VIA? Tell The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot about it or share your thoughts on instant coffee!

10 Interesting Coffee Facts

2009-03-18T14:29:00.003-04:00

How much caffeine is in coffee?
Who invented coffee?
Coffee has its own designated holiday?!?

Check out the article, 10 Interesting Facts About Coffee, by Kassidy Emmerson, from the Associated Content Web site.

Share your thoughts on this article here! Or share your own interesting coffee facts!

Spring (Coffee) Break

2009-03-09T12:24:00.006-04:00

This past week I was on my Spring Break from college. My Spring Break was not the typical party adventure many college students embark on. I spent it casually relaxing with my family and boyfriend. I worked some extra hours at CVS Pharmacy and I got caught up on some well deserved sleep. This may all seem leisurely and comfortable, however, my break did not lack adventure or spontaneity.

On Tuesday, my boyfriend, Steve, and I went to the Church Brew Works. This was his first time there and my second. We enjoyed a surprisingly decadent dinner.

On Thursday, Steve needed to run to the library to check out books for one of his classes. We went to the Carnegie Library in Oakland. Once again, he had never been there before and I had. The library has changed a bit since the last time I had been there, about 3 or 4 years ago. While Steve updated his library card, I found my way to the library's Crazy Mocha kiosk and ordered a piping hot White Chocolate Mocha. The Crazy Mocha also offered a vast variety of paninis, wraps, pasta salads and desserts.

Finally, our biggest Spring Break adventure of the week, occurred on Saturday. Steve and I had planned on road tripping to Eighty-Four, PA to the 7-Eleven Diner. I love diners and I try to visit as many unique and original ones as possible. Early Saturday morning we began our journey around 10 am and arrived at the diner by noon. It was tucked away in the corner of a BP gas station. There were a few locals enjoying there breakfasts and coffees. Steve and I ordered breakfast also and I of course...ordered a cup of coffee. Diner coffee always seems better than home brewed coffee or high priced gourmet coffee drinks. It was fresh brewed and served with small town hospitality.

When we left the diner and started to drive a bit we realized we were only about 30 miles outside of Wheeling, WV. In a hasty split-second decision we decided that was our next road trip destination. That was one of the best decisions we could have made. While in Wheeling we did some sight-seeing and we couldn't help stopping by the Wheeling Island casino.

After spending the afternoon at Wheeling Island we drove back into Downtown Wheeling and walked around visiting some local shops. We stopped for lunch a Later Alligator. I was so surprised by this cafe. The decor created an atmosphere that felt more like we were in New Orleans not West Virginia. The menu consisted of surprisingly creative crepes and sandwiches. Steve had a portobella mushroom sandwich on a Kaiser roll and I had...The King. A grilled peanut butter and banana sandwich that received its namesake from the late, great Elvis Presley. And of course, I had a coffee. This time I ordered an Iced Coffee. Lightly sweetened with cream and sugar. The coffee was brewed using a French Press. As I have mentioned before in previous posts, the French Press produces a very smooth and clear cup of coffee. This was one of the best and simple Iced Coffee I have ever had. It was as refreshing as a glass of water. I never would have thought that I would have found a cafe like this in Wheeling.

Share all of your Spring Break stories here with The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot!

Check back for photos from my Spring Break road trip on The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot!

Coffee Cures for Cold Sufferers

2009-02-27T12:00:00.001-05:00

It's the cold and flue season and the manic weather isn't helping sinus and allergy sufferers. However, coffee lovers can take a snuffy sigh of relief. Coffee could possible ease symptoms associated with colds, according to an article I found on BNET, the Business Network Web site.

The article titled, The 55 Best Herbal Remedies, was first publied in September 2004 in Natural Health magazine.

The article cited coffee as a possible herbal remedy for pain relief and as a decongestant for colds, flus and asthma.

Excerpts from "The 55 Best Herbal Remedies":

Coffee for Pain Relief
Anacin and Excedrin claim that their "extra ingredient" provides greater pain relief. What is it? Caffeine. Many reports, including one in the Archives of Internal Medicine, have shown that adding about 65 milligrams of caffeine to aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen increases pain relief by around 40 percent. Caffeine blocks pain perception, has pain-relieving action, and elevates mood, which also helps minimize pain. Next time you have a headache, wash down your favorite pain pill with coffee or tea for more relief.

Coffee as a Decongestant in Colds, Flu and Asthma
Caffeine opens narrowed bronchial tubes, according to Joe and Teresa Graedon, authors of The People's Pharmacy. According to a report in the Annals of Epidemiology, the odds of experiencing current asthma symptoms were reduced 29 percent for subjects who drank coffee on a regular basis when compared with non-coffee drinkers.

Do you agree with these statements from "The 55 Best Herbal Remedies" article? Share your thoughts here!

Are you addicted to coffee? Vote in the poll!

2009-02-26T12:09:00.000-05:00

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot wants to know how addicted to coffee you are! Share your answers in the newest poll (located along the right side column)!

Cast your vote now, there is only 7 days left!

Poll Results: There's a Tie for The 'Burgh's Favorite Coffee Drink!

2009-02-26T11:56:00.003-05:00

The results for The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's second poll are in and Mocha and Black Coffee both tied for Pittsburgher's Favorite Coffee Drink.

I don't really enjoy Black Coffee at all. I prefer to have my coffee with some cream and sugar, because I find Black Coffee itself to be a bit too bitter and acidic. However, Mochas may be one of my favorite coffee drinks.

I never successfully made a Mocha myself at home. I usually buy them from coffee shops. My favorite coffee shop Mocha is probably, Starbuck's. Starbuck's Mocha has just the right ratio of coffee and chocolate. It's not too overly rich, but it's also not bland.

Be sure to keep a look out for The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's newest poll! And make sure to cast your vote!

Do you agree with the latest poll results? Share your opinion here!

Mardi Gras Coffee

2009-02-24T16:27:00.003-05:00

Happy Mardi Gras!

It's Mardi Gras, the carnival celebration signifying the day prior to Lent's fasting season. Are you planning on throwing a Fat Tuesday festival of your own? If you are The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot has some great recipes to share with you on this indulgent day.

The celebration of Mardi Gras and coffee go hand and hand. New Orleans, the central city for the celebration is also one of the first cities to start providing coffee to the rest of North America. Read more info on coffee's journey from New Orleans to the rest of the country here! Since, New Orleans and coffee have such a rich history a Mardi Gras party is not complete until the coffee is brewed.

Party hosts may want to serve Orleans Coffee, a festive spiced coffee drink for the over-21 revelers.

A Mardi Gras themed party would not be complete without Chicory Coffee. Chicory is made from the root of the endive plant and has been used as a coffee filter and as a way to enhance coffee's flavor in New Orleans for hundreds of years. Chicory is a Louisiana tradition for the experimental party guest.

For more New Orleans recipes visit the New Orleans Cuisine blog.

Tell The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot how you celebrated Mardi Gras 2009!

10 Signs of a Coffee Lover

2009-02-18T21:13:00.004-05:00

1. Your dream vacation is a trip to Columbia to meet Juan Valdez.

2. Your collection of coffee cups is featured on your MySpace page.

3. You chew coffee beans instead of gum.

4. All your kids are named "Joe".

5. One of the most important things you look for in a new car is the size of cup holder.

6. You've seriously considered mortgaging your home to start a Dunkin' Donuts.

7. Your goal is to amount to a hill-of-beans.

8. When someone asks, "How are you?" you reply, "Good to the last drop."

9. You named your cats Latte and Mocha.

10. You look forward to the daily grind.

*Courtesy of Chicken Soup for the Coffee Lovers Soul: Celebrating the Perfect Blend- by: Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, and Theresa Peluso (2007)

Coffee Quiz: What Kind of Coffee are You?

2009-02-17T22:42:00.004-05:00

You Are a Soy Latte

At your best, you are: free spirited, down to earth, and relaxed

At your worst, you are: dogmatic and picky

You drink coffee when: you need a pick me up, and green tea isn't cutting it

Your caffeine addiction level: medium

I took this fun quiz and I am a soy latte. Take the quiz to find out what kind of coffee you are!

Share your results with The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot!

21st Street Coffee Comment Response

2009-02-17T22:15:00.003-05:00

21st Street Coffee & Tea left this comment on my previous blog entry announcing the Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's first poll results.

Gloria- thanks for the nice mention. In my opinion if we are talking about the best "coffee" in Pittsburgh you should include (in no particular order) Aldo, Blue Horse, and Tazza d'Oro. I don't think it will be long before you include Voluto in that group as well. By my criteria, these are all places where you can get a great shot of espresso, enjoy a black coffee, and have a meaningful discussion with the knowledgable baristas.

I definitely agree that there are several coffee shops in Pittsburgh where coffee lovers can enjoy a countless number of great coffee drinks. 21st Street Coffee and the other shops mentioned in their comment, along with many other shops, offer some of the "best" coffee. And The Pittsburgh Coffee Shop will no doubt be reviewing and highlighting everyone of the best 'Burgh shops and what they each offer!

Keep checking The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot for polls, interactive posts, shop reviews and more!

Vote in New Poll!

2009-02-16T14:42:00.001-05:00

What is your favorite coffee drink?

Vote in The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's new poll!! (located on the right side column)

Hurry...there's only 7 days left to vote!

Poll Results!: 21st Street Coffee &Tea Voted Best 'Burgh Coffee Shop

2009-02-16T12:43:00.003-05:00

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's first poll has come to a close and the results are in!

Bloggers voted 21st Street Coffee & Tea the best 'Burgh coffee shop. I have, of course, been to 21st Street Coffee before and in my opinion it is one of Pittsburgh's most underrated coffee shops.

It is located in the heart of The Strip District ( at 50 21st Street, Pittsburgh PA 15222) and the shop also has a smaller location inside the Frick Building Lobby, Downtown (437 Grant Street, Pittsburgh PA 15219). 21st Street Coffee's Strip District location is a cool and calm contrast to the common bustling and busy Strip District. The coffee shop is an earthy oasis destination, the perfect place to cool down in the summer and to warm up on a chilly Pittsburgh day.

The shop's employees are welcoming and friendly. And above all the shop's menu is a coffee lovers dream. I have of course tried their coffee and I've had their espresso. The shop's use of the French Press to brew their coffee results in a surprisingly refreshing and clear cup of Joe.

Also, tea lovers do not fret! Take it from me and my first hand experience, 21st Street Coffee's iced chai latte is excellent.

**Read more info about 21st Street Coffee & Tea in an article I wrote for Point Park University's newspaper, The Globe, here!

Kiva Han and Crazy Mocha both tied for second place in the poll.
An anonymous blogger wrote in their vote for Enrico's Tazza d'oro, Aldo Coffee and Voluto Coffee.

Attention bloggers! Be sure to keep an eye out for The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's next poll...coming soon!

Did you agree or disagree with poll results? Comment about them!

Coffee Liqueur

2009-02-11T11:26:00.002-05:00

On February 3 I celebrated my 21st birthday. It was a memorable celebration which included spending quality time with my family and boyfriend. Since this birthday is the last big bash (til 30 that is...ugh) it also included lots of treats, gifts and of course...coffee!

My cousins, Denice, Bob and their kids, bought me a set of clear, glass coffee mugs, a selection of flavored coffees and a bottle of irish cream liqueur.

I found a recipe on the Drinks Mixer Web site for an Irish Paddy. An Irish Paddy is a cocktail recipe that uses an irish cream liqueur, creme de cacao and green creme de menthe. Watch the video below to see how to mix this drink!

More Cocktail Recipes videos at 5min.com

Another gift I received was a Starbucks gift set that included a large mug and a bottle of Starbucks Coffee Liqueur. Starbucks Coffee Liqueur tastes like a coffee syrup and is great for mixing cocktails, adding to coffee and making sweet treat drinks. There are countless coffee recipes for the responsible drinker.

My 21st birthday was very enjoyable and I couldn't have asked it to go any better.

Share your best birthday stories with The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot Blog!

Vote in Coffee Poll!

2009-02-09T14:38:00.002-05:00

What is your favorite Pittsburgh coffee shop?

Vote! in the poll located in the right side column of The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot!

There is only 5 days left to vote!

Refrigerated Coffee

2009-02-09T13:10:00.003-05:00

Over this past weekend my mother has been brewing coffee in the morning for me. This is a rare occurrence. She never voluntarily brews coffee for me. When I'm making coffee I usually only make the amount I know I am going to drink, which is about one or two cups. My mom, however, brewed enough for four or five cups. She assumed that she would be drinking it too. Needless to say, we failed to finish the pot. In an attempt to avoid being wasteful we saved the remaining coffee in the refrigerator. I have since heated up and drank the "left-overs".

I was surprised that there was not much of a difference between the fresh-brewed coffee and the one/two day old coffee at all. The flavor was less pungent and the smell of the coffee being heated in the microwave was less intoxicating. Aside from that the "old" coffee was just as good, for me at least. It reminded me of how a cup of coffee tastes when you order it late at night, after hours, at the local 24-hour eatery or so. And they serve you the last drop of coffee that had been resting in the coffee pot, brewed some time before.

When I realized how pleased I was drinking the refrigerated coffee I wondered how long could coffee last in the refrigerator before going bad?

The Coffee Detective, an on-line community that provides useful facts and advice for coffee makers and lovers provided some interesting information on the topic.

The Coffee Detective also stated to prevent coffee from spoiling in the fridge to seal it in a tight container and to use it within a week of brewing.

So, how do you spot spoiled coffee?

From personal experience, when your refrigerated coffee has mold growing on it it's not safe to drink. Throw it out and brew a fresh pot!

Does anyone have an interesting story about brewing coffee? Share it here! Have a question? Don't be afraid to ask!

Barista Competition Ends: One local barista places in finals

2009-02-09T11:33:00.003-05:00

The Mid-Atlantic and Northeast Barista Competition ended this weekend with Pittsburgh placing one barista in the challenge.

Dana Waelde, a shop owner at Crazy Mocha, wowed the audience with her espresso technique. Read more about her competition success here!

Coffee Throwdown: More info on the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern Regional Barista Competition

2009-02-04T14:06:00.004-05:00

Today, I found more information on-line about the Mid-Atlantic & Northeastern Barista Competition .

Local coffee baristas from 21st Street Coffee & Tea, Aldo Coffee, Crazy Mocha and several other coffee shops will be competing in the competition.

Follow the link for more information about the competition.

Coffee Events in Pittsburgh

2009-02-02T18:59:00.005-05:00

Attention Coffee Lovers! There are some exciting coffee events coming up this month in Pittsburgh.

Check them out...

Coffee, Tea & Teens
North Hills Youth Ministry Counseling Center
February 6, 2009 at 10:00 a.m.

These events are held on the first Friday of each month. It is a discussion group designed to provide resources for parents of kids ages 12 to 18. This month's subject is "Resolving Conflict". Admission is $5.

Unblurred: First Fridays on Penn
Penn Avenue Arts District
February 6, 2009 at 5:00 p.m.

"Unblurred" is a monthly event that opens the Penn Avenue Arts District for adults and children.
This month showcases the newest coffee shop on Penn Avenue, Voluto Coffee, as well as several other events.

Event information courtesy of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Web site.

I also found another very interesting local coffee event. It's called Coffee Wars and it will be taking place February 6-8 at the Pittsburgh Marriott North in Cranberry. This is a coffee competition sponsored by the Specialty Coffee Association of America. Baristas from across the country compete by making a variety of coffee drinks (which are also available for the audience to taste). Tickets cost $10 or $8 if purchased in advance.

If anyone attends one of these events please tell us all about it here at The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot Blog!

My Favorite Coffee Mate

2009-02-02T14:24:00.006-05:00

Hello all,

First I would like to thank Jess and Sarah for commenting on my last post . They both shared how they too enjoy the camaraderie between coffee drinkers that I enjoy.

Another thing I enjoy, as a coffee connoisseur, is the ability to experiment with a variety of coffee flavors and added ingredients. One of my favorite things to add to a cup of coffee is a flavored creamer.

Coffee and cream go hand and hand and the more decadent and unique the creamer is the more I desire to try it. My favorite brand of coffee creamer is Coffee-Mate. I also like to try some of the International Delight creamers.

In the fall, I like to use a pumpkin coffee creamer. During the holiday season I alternate between gingerbread, peppermint and, my personal favorite, eggnog. Right now, I have a hazelnut creamer in my refridgerator.

But, my all time favorite coffee creamer is Coffee-Mate's World Cafe Collection- Italian Sweet Creme. It's not too rich that it's overpowering and it's not too dull that you can't taste the flavor. When I'm pressed for time or if I don't feel like making a coffee drink that is more involved I'll make a cup of french roast coffee and I'll add a tablespoon of Italian Sweet Creme creamer. It's just right!

You can view all of Coffee-Mate's products, ingredients and nutritional information at the Coffee-Mate Official Web site.

Share all of your favorite coffee mates -creamers, sugars and more! On The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot Blog!!

It just takes one sip...

2009-01-28T17:45:00.001-05:00

I don't remember exactly when I first started drinking coffee, but I do remember coffee always being a part of my life.

When I was very young I can remember my grandparents and aunt drinking coffee often and I always felt like drinking coffee was a very "grown up" thing to do. I wasn't allowed to drink coffee...I had to "wait til I was older". The idea of drinking coffee was very enticing and I looked forward to the day I would finally be able to. I couldn't imagine what it tasted like or why everyone seemed to enjoy drinking it so much.

When I got a little older I would make coffee for my dad. My mom would pick me up from grade school and when we got home she would let me put the coffee on for my dad to have when he got home from work. I probably only did that a handful of times, but that sticks out to me. I loved the smell of the coffee when it was brewing and I loved to scoop it out of the can. I don't have many memories of times spent with my dad because he was going through some personal problems that took a great toll on my family and eventually led to my parents' separation. However, I felt important making that coffee for him.

In my early teens I was finally able to try coffee for myself. At first I would only drink Starbucks Mocha Frappucinos. It was like drinking a chocolate milkshake that made me feel hyper. I eventually started to try other varieties of coffee and my tastes and preferences changed.

I don't have a favorite blend of coffee or style of drink. I love to try everything and anything with coffee.

Coffee represents many things to me. One is adventure. Every time I try a new coffee drink or visit a new coffee shop its like going on a new adventure where I will experiment and discover new things. Another is friendship, family and comfort. There is nothing more enjoyable than sitting down with a group of people or one person that means a lot to you and sharing a cup of coffee together and having a heartfelt conversation. Almost every family function ends with coffee. I spend a lot of time going to coffee shops with my closest friends or my boyfriend (even though he doesn't drink coffee!).

Coffee is much more to me than a morning pick-me-up or a caffeine fix. My journey with coffee started with just one sip and since then I have grown to love coffee in all of its shapes, forms and flavors.

Take a Coffee Break!

2009-01-27T20:18:00.000-05:00

Everybody has a boring day sometimes at school or work. Yesterday, I was surfing the web for fun while I had nothing to do and I came across an interesting, free, online game. It's called The Coffee Breaker and it's a matching game. The object of the game is to match three coffee themed items in a row on a grid. It's a common online game format. The game was addictive and I couldn't stop playing. It definitely took up some of my time. The last round I played I reached Level 6 and scored 6,244 points.

Give the game a try next time you take a coffee break!
http://www.tbs.com/stories/storywide/0,,97597,00.html

Welcome to The Coffee Pot

2009-01-26T12:49:00.000-05:00

What is the first thing that pops into your mind when you wake up? What do you need to boost your energy and get through the day?
If you answered..."coffee", to either of those questions then The Coffee Pot is the place for you.
The Coffee Pot is a blog that features news, product reviews, recipes, event postings and more about coffee in Pittsburgh and around the world. It's a place to share information and opinions about one of America's most beloved drinks...the cup of joe!

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot

Local Coffee Shops with The Worst Service

Summer Coffee Recipes

Half Price Books: Bargain Bar

Special Thanks...

Pocket Coffee -A Sweet, Bite Size Treat

Steamers Coffee & Tea: Downtown Pittsburgh's Hidden Coffee Oasis

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot Celebrating Over a Year of Blogging!

Coffe Kids

An Interesting Story

Wrap-up -Christmas Countdown Tips

Christmas Countdown: Hint #10: Hanukkah Coffee Mugs

Christmas Countdown: Hint #9: Coffee Gifts

Christmas Countdown: Hint #8: Coffee Eggnog Punch Recipe

Ingredients:

Preparation:

Christmas Countdown: Hint #7: Low Acid Coffee

Christmas Countdown: Hint #6: Coffee Ice Cubes

Christmas Countdown: Hint #5: Coffee Lotion

Christmas Countdown: Hint #4: Mocha Toffee Bars Recipe

Christmas Countdown: Hint #3: The Joy of Cookies Tour

Christmas Countdown: Hint #2: What to do with Left-Over Coffee

Christmas Countdown: Hint #1: One-Cup Coffee Makers

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot's Christmas Countdown

Harvest Coffee Cider

October Coffee Events

Autumn Coffee Treats

Recipe: The Power Lift

Help Make A Difference In The World With The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot

Back to School: Coffee Tips

Pittsburgh's Best Kept Coffee Secrets

Response to Bee Hive Comment

The PGH Coffee Pot Weighs in on the CP's Picks for the Best Burgh Coffee Shops

McDonald's Mocha Madness

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot on Pittsburgh Bloggers!

McCafe National Launch & Sweepstakes

Special Thanks to Sara5889 for her Comment!

Summer Coffee Events

More Coffee Web Videos

How To Use The Melitta One-Cup Coffee Maker

Coffee and Health

Coffee Break Community Profile

Join Coffee Break Community: An internet social networking site

Coca-Cola Company Ventures into Coffee Market...again.

Happy 39th Anniversary Seattle's Best Coffee!!

McDonald's Coffee Lawsuit

The Pittsburgh Coffee Pot has been Blogged!

New Survey!

Breakfast Sandwhiches at Starbucks

New Starbucks Coffee Ice Cream

Coffee Quiz Scores!

Test Your Coffee Knowledge

Caffeine Consumption

Flavored Coffee

Starbucks and Instant Coffee

10 Interesting Coffee Facts

Spring (Coffee) Break

Coffee Cures for Cold Sufferers

Are you addicted to coffee? Vote in the poll!

Poll Results: There's a Tie for The 'Burgh's Favorite Coffee Drink!

Mardi Gras Coffee

10 Signs of a Coffee Lover

Coffee Quiz: What Kind of Coffee are You?

21st Street Coffee Comment Response

Vote in New Poll!

Poll Results!: 21st Street Coffee &Tea Voted Best 'Burgh Coffee Shop

Coffee Liqueur

Vote in Coffee Poll!

Refrigerated Coffee

Barista Competition Ends: One local barista places in finals

Coffee Throwdown: More info on the Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern Regional Barista Competition

Coffee Events in Pittsburgh

My Favorite Coffee Mate

It just takes one sip...

Take a Coffee Break!

Welcome to The Coffee Pot