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Picking the Write Coffee shop
Hybrid work can suck. Here are some ways to pick the right place for your daily cup of joe.
One of my most-read posts is “Why Writing in Coffee Shops Makes Me More Productive.
But before you head to your local McDonald's and crack open a new notebook or Word document, consider other places to write your great American (or Canadian) novel.
Not all are created equal.
Each cafe has pros and cons. Let’s look at the top reasons that make your bean dealer stand out when your creativity is bubbling, or you just want out of your home office.
Ambiance.
Any idea why some cafes are lined up while others are like funeral homes with muffins? I’ve always put it down to the loaded term “ambiance.” Hard to define, but you know it when you see it. For me, it starts with the coffee. Strong and dark brings me back. Light and acidic keeps me away. Music is essential, along with the right volume. One place near me has a stack of vinyl records; however, I’ve yet to witness the Gen Z barista do more than just stare at the turntable like it’s a museum piece.
Lately, my favorite spot has been the last working rotary phone in the city. And it’s not just decoration. I’ve seen it work.
I still don’t know who Serge is.
Seating
Seating is important. Communal tables are the rage in one place, while postage stamp-sized tables cover the walls in another. I’m partial to my own table, but at Serge’s place, tall seats face the espresso machine installed behind the bar. Writers can grab one of the limited spots and type away, with their drink of choice only a couple of feet away.
Yet many places I only try once. They generate some “anti-ambiance” that scuttles the vibe and stops my repeat business. Sometimes it’s the coffee. A few places serve sour coffee that no amount of sugar can fix. Would it kill you to have a bag of dark beans ready for the crazy people?
However, even if the coffee is not to my liking, tea is always available and it’s hard to screw…
