Cup of Joe

In every part of town, there's always a hidden gem where the people make a work of art. They have learned their craft and execute it with beauty and warming the bellies and hearts of the fortunate ones who get to indulge in it. It's these type of places that make a particular neighborhood unique and one of a kind.

The Coffee House
I feel that the simply coffee house has been lost in many ways. As a ex-barista, I will say that the art of coffee making isn't being cherished as much as it should be. Yes, I never knew anything about coffee before or even after I worked at Starbucks in a Target. Coffee was simply some delicious bitter, sweet, and creamy liquid you would either get at Starbucks or Dounkin' Donuts. The turning of age liquid that was only for adults or the life saving elixir as you're craming in a few more hours of studying. Such a shame that for 4 years of my college life I never fully experienced coffee the way it should be.

Who knew that a simple mug filled with milk, espresso, and spices can brighten up anyone's day? (even if it's a sunny one already)

Ipsento

I was so delighted to have finally found a coffee house in my neighborhood that is a true gem and understands what a good cup of joe means. It's rare to find shops where you can order a simple cup or joe or a house speciality served in ceramic cups where not one looks the same. Where the barista makes a work of art as they create a beautiful design on top making the coffee even more enticing to drink.
I've tried making these fun designs when I work at Starbucks back in the day, it's not easy.

My Favs below:
Ipsento latte - a blend of coconut milk and milk with honey and cayenne.
The flavoring and slight kick from the cayenne is out of this world!

Nutella mocha - a mocha with a nutella twist
You had me at Nutella. 

To top it off, the sandwiches are delicious as well. A perfect accompaniment to your coffee.

Bucktown/Wicker Park Eats

Slowly making my way to various restaurants and eateries in around my new place in Bucktown and Wicker Park. As you can clearly see below, I do love breakfast. :)

Entrance to Bongo Room - Third attempt I was finally able to eat there!!

White chocolate and berries pancake - oooooh so good!

Omelet and Potatoes (can't quite remember what was in there... but it was good!)

Well this place is in Logan Square, but cutest presentation ever! Heart chicken in this delicious spicy tomato sauce accompanied with pesto mashed potatoes.

Francesca's Forno - Brunch

Who knew that they also had delicious brunch. This was quite an interesting breakfast, think it'd better as an appetizer, but man it sure was good.

Egg, melted cheese, spinach, in a nice creamy sauce topped on truffle oiled crusty bread -- mmm mmm good.

And to top it off with a mimosa. Good Sunday morning!