Uptown Espresso

The Back Patio of Uptown Espresso Bar

September 29^th, 2009

Every day I ride my bike down Columbus Avenue and everyday I pass the unimposing, European styled Uptown Espresso Café. I love Espresso, I love Europe, why did it take me this long to get there?

I was welcomed into the small café by a charming Iranian woman who recommended the Persian salad; a light mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese and a lemon-oil dressing that was perfect for an unseasonably warm September day. Since the café was clearly coffee oriented, I was pleasantly surprised by how much the Persian Salad exceeded my expectations. There was definitely an attention to detail with basil and lemon garnishes and full service out on the patio that is hidden behind the street side café.

I never did understand the obsession with sitting outside when “outside” means a crowded street side table inhaling car fumes with your lunch. As much as I love a salad lightly tossed in carbon pollution, I was thrilled that the uptown espresso bar had a hidden patio encompassed by lush ivy vines and outdoor lantern lights. The sweet perfume of privacy, solitude, and perfection lulled me into relaxation and sipping a well made post lunch espresso in the early fall sun is just what I needed.