Coffee and Donuts


 

I know I have said it before, I’ll say it again, and I will continue to say that I am amazed how many independent coffee shops there are in New Mexico. It seems like everywhere I go no matter what part of any town I am in I find a new coffee shop to try. On my most recent explorations I found two more coffee shops that are both delicious and have great environments to enjoy their coffee. 

O’Beans Coffee: Depending on where in Albuquerque you live this can be a bit of a drive to get to, but between the scenery and great coffee it is totally worth it. Driving along Tramway Road the first thing you notice is the gorgeous views of the Sandia, and once you arrive you will find the O’Beans is one of the coolest coffee shops you will ever visit. The entire shop is decorated inspired by Volkswagen including the counter which is mimicked to look like an iconic VW Bus. Of course, the theming should have been more obvious with a classically restored beetle outside the building. The decoration is one thing, but then there is the coffee. I tried a drink called the Valorie which was delicious. It was Irish Crème with a little bit of chocolate, and it tasted exactly like an Irish Coffee. Pair that with the delicious donuts offered, and friendly service, you are guaranteed a very enjoyable experience. But my favorite aspect about visiting O’Beans is its very spacious patio. They say it is the little things that matter, and to be on a patio drinking a delicious cup of coffee, enjoying an equally delicious pastry, with some of the most gorgeous views in Albuquerque is a relaxing, and enjoyable experience that can’t be beaten. For those reasons I cannot recommend a trip to O’Beans at least once, but after one visit you will want to go back again. 

Little Bear: This is one coffee shop that I had wanted to visit, and after one visit I found myself annoyed that it took me so long to go. I went to the Nob Hill location on Central and walked into a beautifully converted service shop to a spacious coffee shop serving amazing coffee and donuts. The menu here is more straightforward with less options, but that does not take away from how good they are. I opted for the signature LB Latte and was very happy with my decision. This was beautifully presented with latte art, and the flavors were complex. Each sip hit all the sense with a rich flavor, slight bitterness, and slight sweetness. It was an incredibly balanced drink that I would order again without hesitation. Factor in locally made pastries and this is a great spot to stop in before breakfast, or just a midafternoon pick me up. In addition, they also roast their own beans, and this is the first time I tried coffee from Vietnam. I can’t believe it took me so long to check out Little Bear, and now that I have, I am already planning a repeat trip. 

Both of these coffee shops I heard about and visited were based on recommendations, and I am glad I listened. They are both delicious, and ones where I would continue the trend of recommending them to anyone seeking out a great coffee shop. They are unique in their buildings, both have great service, and both offer some of the best coffee drinks you will have in Albuquerque. 

To see photos of my adventures, follow my Instagram @the_nm_tx or tag me at #thenmtx
To support my adventures visit www.patreon.com/thenmtx


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