Brash Coffee, in Atlanta’s History Center, is an experience you cannot miss if you love coffee and a bit of history, architecture and stunning natural beauty.
Brash Coffee Shop is Tucked into the Natural History Center
Address: History Center, 130 W Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
Website: https://brashcoffee.com/
You know that feeling about a city, neighborhood, and coffee shop you love? All of the elements that draw you in, and you find yourself become a part of it. This is the thing I love most about Indie coffee houses, other than the coffee, that is. They take on the identity of their surroundings, becoming a unique expression of the area’s history and culture.
Therefore, I am forever seeking the next Indie coffee shop. Not because there was anything lacking in the former, but quite the opposite. Each tells a fascinating story in a completely individualistic way. It seems to me that Indie coffee shops have become the hub of American culture, not just of coffee culture.
Therefore, I might as well ask you. Why do you love going to your favorite coffee shop? Why do you enjoy exploring and looking for new great coffee shops in your favorite areas? What is it you’re searching for? Is it only coffee? I’m guessing it’s so much more.
Indie Coffee Shop Culture Leads Our Cultural Identity
However, this article may turn into a dissertation on the role of the Indie Coffee Shop in American culture. Hmmm… that actually sounds pretty good, and I’m up for it. I started this blog because of my simple and pure love for coffee. Truly, I am in love with everything about coffee. The smell, the taste, the enjoyment of that first morning cup. The grind, the texture, and the list goes on… The way it picks me up in the morning, bringing out the best in me, the optimistic-self (Lord knows I can also be a pessimist).
Gosh I love coffee. What’s more, I have so much gratitude for the Indie Shops, the owners and baristas. They’ve created an experience that feeds our souls, and energizes our deepest desires. Miraculously, they do it all through coffee. It’s where we meet friends, and family. It’s where first dates take their chance, and where business deals are closed. It has become an essential part of our lives. Quite amazingly, the American Indie Coffee Shop has become the hub of our cultural identity. It’s our gathering spot, our safe haven of acceptance, our community.
Well… enough of my dissertation and onto a stellar example of one such coffee shop. Brash Coffee in the beating heart of Atlanta, Georgia. What an amazing place, and I’m not just talking about the coffee.
The Promise of Springtime & Coffee
This place had me ‘at the parking lot.’ It’s springtime and absolutely everything is in bloom in Atlanta. As we pull in the drive, we are greeted with the gleamingly gorgeous History Center of Atlanta (Brash Coffee is tucked inside, HOW COOL).
Next, the pathway that leads to the front entrance is lined with lush purple Iris. The building is sleek and modern with walls of glass and neutral tone brick facade (an architectural treat to boot). It was designed by George T. Heery. Heery, being an iconic Atlanta Architect, designed not only the History Center, but several other notable Atlanta gems as well. Additionally, you may be familiar with The Coca-Cola Company Central Reception Building, the Coke USA Building, and the Georgia Power Headquarters. Heery’s buildings are built into the fabric of Atlanta Culture.
A Cool Coffee Space & More…
Caroline, who’s like a daughter to me, leads me in and to the left. I am floored! My words would not do it justice, so here are the pictures. The visual space is airy and light-filled. Its floor to ceiling windows merge the outside landscape with the interior space. Additionally, I’m delighted by the surroundings, the buzz of conversation, and the interesting people I see.
Moreover, the views through vast panes of glass are exquisite. It’s a feast for not only the eyes, but in so very many other ways. We watch the baristas at their craft and I’m totally enchanted at this point. I never fail to be amazed by the talent of these professionals (sure you get a bad coffee every now and then, but you find your trusty spot, and your favorite barista, don’t you?!)
Today was no different. Caroline brought me here for the full experience. She orders a Latte, and I… my usual, a Cappuccino. Yet, today it is topped with foam made of half heavy cream and half water. Am I crazy?! No, I’m on Keto, and I’m just sharing a little secret. I’m simply enthralled as I look at the fantastic Keto Cappuccino these angels of coffee have created for me. A thing of art really. So next time, even though I know you’re really busy, tell your favorite barista what you love about them.
Beautiful BRASH Delivers on Coffee
However, Caroline is ahead of me. This is her place, her find, and I’m happy to just tag along for the ride. Her Latte comes up first, so she wastes no time scaling the stairs to the loft to find us the best seat in the house.
Next, I grab my ‘cup of joe’ and join her. Look at the pic above… A cup of love, right?! You know what comes next, that precious ahhh… moment, that relaxing sip of nirvana. I know it sounds like ‘a little much,’ but hey this is my story.
Undoubtedly, Brash Coffee Roasters are experts at everything they do. From the location of their neighborhood coffee shop, right down to the top-notch brew they consistently deliver, and every minute detail in between.
In fact, as Brash states themselves, “At BRASH, our single purpose is to produce the best coffee we know how. We want to share our inspiration and passion for coffee and create a community through the celebration of it.” Now, in the words of Buddy the Elf, “You did it, congratulations, world’s best cup of coffee, great job everybody, it’s great to meet you.” I agree Buddy, now I’m a huge Brash fan!
But seriously, the Brash mission begins with the coffee farmer. They visit single farms to bring back the highest quality coffee beans so you and I can have our AHHH… moment. For example, they “meticulously procure, roast, and prepare coffee in a way that honors everyone involved, from the farmers to the roasters to the baristas.” And it shows. Also, they have two locations. One in Buckhead and one in West Midtown, so they’ve got you covered.
Paradise Found – Of Indie Coffee, Botanical Gardens & Historical Atlanta
Finally, I can’t overlook the Atlanta History Center, and must give it ‘it’s due.’ Beyond providing this perfect coffee sanctuary, the History Center is a stunning architectural treat, and all of the little pieces of Atlanta History are contained within it. The Center’s Goizueta Gardens stretch out from their magnificent architectural masterpiece into a 33 acre paradise of lush landscape with nine botanical gardens.
Additionally, it’s quite possible your coffee date can extend into a walk through their amazing gardens. Each one tells a story of Atlanta History through horticulture, it’s incredible. What a date beyond coffee! This is my personal tip of the day for coffee lovers and romantics.
Address: 130 W Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
Website: https://www.atlantahistorycenter.com/
Upon Reflection
Interestingly, like all exceptional places and experiences, Brash Coffee and The History Center of Atlanta will leave a mark on you. A memory that you can go back to and cherish. Isn’t that what we love about coffee exploration?
Where it leads us. Not just our physical bodies, but our senses, our minds, hearts and souls. These unique finds capture the essence of a city, town, and neighborhood. The people that built and created it. In fact, these humble coffee houses are born out of desire, and so, we desire the experience they create.
Moreover, I contend it is LOVE. This is exactly why we find ourselves going back. It’s not just for the coffee. It is for the people. It’s ONE LOVE. The people who take us there, the people we meet there, and the people we find there. The experience of savoring it all over a smooth cup of coffee. A CUP OF LOVE. Truly, that is what the Indie Coffee Shop is to me. Thank you for taking me Caroline!
Also, if you enjoyed this article please join us in continued exploration of both our US City Guide and Europe City Guide, and thank you in advance for sharing it with anyone you know who would enjoy it also.