As the morning sun rises over the charming streets of Portland, Maine, there’s no better place to start our coffee adventure than at Tandem Coffee. Nestled in a quaint converted gas station, Tandem Coffee is known for its commitment to quality and community. They meticulously roast their coffee, ensuring they craft each batch to perfection. Not only is their coffee absolutely divine, but the pastries are something you won’t want to pass up.
Stop 1: Tandem Coffee in Portland, Maine
Sip this: Tandem Coffee’s Time and Temperature Blend.
The Time and Temperature Blend perfectly balances bright and sweet with tasting notes of citrus, chocolate, and a hint of spice. It’s an excellent choice to kickstart your day with a burst of energy.
Top things to do in Portland, ME:
- Start the day with your favorite coffee beverage & pastry at Tandem Coffee.
- Visit the Cape Elizabeth lighthouse and stop at the Bite Into Maine food truck for a lobster roll flight.
Open May – October, 1000 Shore Road – Cape Elizabeth - Grab a cold one at Allagash Brewery, 50 Industrial Way – Portland. If you get hungry, they also have a Bite Into Maine food truck with a little more food selection (pretzels, brats & more). Playing cards on the patio here in the summer can’t be beat!
- Must try for dinner: Eventide Oyster Co. They make their lobster rolls with browned butter—need I say more?
- I also highly recommend road-tripping or ferrying to small fishing towns nearby. We checked out Boothbay Harbor and Peak’s Island.
Stop 2: Caffe Vita in Brooklyn, New York & Lower East Side NYC
Next, our journey brings us to the bustling streets of New York City. Caffe Vita was born in Seattle in 1995 and has since expanded to NYC, Brooklyn, and Phoenix. Caffe Vita stands out as a pioneer in the third-wave coffee movement and currently roasts its beans out of the Brooklyn location. We love them because they’re passionate about good coffee and creating meaningful and lasting connections.
Sip this: Caffe Vita’s Theo Blend
Named after the Seattle-based chocolatier, this blend features rich flavors of dark chocolate and caramel and a smooth, velvety finish. It’s a true treat for the taste buds.
Top things to do in the area:
1. Start your day with a latte from Caffe Vita and head over to Salt’s Cure for breakfast & pancakes. It’s about 1.5 miles away, and we recommend getting there early to beat the line!
2. Williamsburg – Get a turkey sandwich at Depanneur and sit at Domino Park on the water
3. Where are my yogis at? Refresh from your travels at a rejuvenating yoga session at Vera in Boerum Hill.
4. Enjoy the “Italian Job” ice cream from Lilia in Brooklyn.
5. Bike around Prospect Park and check out the zoo and eateries nearby.
6. Catch a Broadway show or attend a late-night show!
Stop 3: Brandywine Coffee Roasters in Wilmington, Delaware
As we continue south, we arrive in Wilmington, Delaware, home to Brandywine Coffee Roasters. Known for its artistic approach to coffee roasting, Brandywine is celebrated for its creative packaging and exceptional single-origin offerings. Although they don’t have a storefront, you can try their delectable coffees at Brew Ha-Ha and/or on our website here.
Sip this: Brandywine Coffee’s Smith Bridge Blend
This combination of coffees creates a unique harmony of rich flavors, such as chocolate and roasted nuts.
Top recs for Wilmington, Delaware,
1. Explore the Brandywine Creek State Park: This state park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for birdwatching and fishing. It’s a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of the Brandywine Valley.
2. Visit the Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library and Hagley Museum & Library. Learn about early American industry and innovation at these historical sites!
3. Dine at La Fia Bistro. This hidden gem offers an intimate dining experience with a farm-to-table menu highlighting fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
4. Visit the Riverfront Market: This bustling market features local vendors offering fresh produce, delicious meals, and unique goods. It’s a great spot for lunch, shopping, and enjoying the lively atmosphere along the Christina River.
Stop 4: Ceremony Coffee in Annapolis, Maryland
Located in the heart of this historic city, Ceremony Coffee is renowned for its dedication to quality and the art of coffee making. This café, housed in a sleek, modern space, crafts every cup with precision and passion, offering an inviting atmosphere. Beyond the exceptional coffee, the café’s minimalist design and friendly baristas make it a perfect spot to start your day.
Sip this: Mass Appeal Blend
This blend is an exquisite combination of bright and rich flavors, with tasting notes of berries, chocolate, and a hint of citrus. It’s an ideal choice to energize your morning and set the tone for a day of exploration.
Top 5 Things to Do in Annapolis, Maryland:
1. Grab a coffee and pastry at roastery Ceremony Coffee 📍90 Russell St., Suite 500, Annapolis, MD 21401
2. Stroll Through Historic Annapolis: Admire the colonial architecture and visit the Maryland State House.
3. Enjoy a Sailing Adventure: Annapolis is known as America’s Sailing Capital, so be sure to get out on the water.
4. Indulge in fresh seafood at the Boatyard Bar & Grill. This spot, known for its relaxed vibe and fresh, locally sourced seafood, is perfect for lunch or dinner.
5. End the day with a sunset walk at Quiet Waters Park. You might even catch a concert there! This park also offers trails, art galleries, and scenic views, making it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
Our summer road trip has taken us on a delightful journey from the quaint streets of Portland to the bustling boroughs of New York, the historic charm of Wilmington, and the nautical beauty of Annapolis. Each stop has offered incredible specialty coffee, unique experiences, and local flavors that make every visit memorable. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just looking to explore new places, these destinations will surely provide a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. So grab your travel mug, hit the road, and savor every sip along the way!
Be sure to check out our west coast road trip as well: Washington, Oregon, California