Télescope Coffee Shop

Posted by on Oct 16, 2012 in Food, Paris | 10 Comments

Don’t get me wrong, I really love what I do. But I have to admit, I’ve got a little job envy today.

As a die-hard coffee addict appreciator, I can’t believe it took me this long to accept an invitation from our friend Lindsey to head over to Télescope. After a few days of the typical bistrot coffee, this fantastic coffee house was a literal and figurative eye opener. I met co-owner and barista David Flynn. What a guy – soft-spoken, friendly and full of exuberance for what he does. And he pulls off a very well-groomed paintbrush mustache, so bonus points for that. Incredibly talented, co-owns a thriving cafe in Paris with a devoted following and a warm atmosphere – yeah, I’d take that life. I will refrain from a lengthy narrative about about tasting notes, but it was the first time that I enjoyed a coffee like a fine wine. We came back the next day and I had a sampling of some different shots of espresso, all amazing. Full bodied, well structured, notes of banana, chocolate, lemon zest, oatmeal. All in a friendly, casual environment with great conversation and great music.

My mind raced about how to up our coffee game at home. High on the flavor and the serious buzz, an idea was…errr…brewing in my mind. Our DeLonghi is on its last legs, and we’ve been thinking about what to get. So I asked David about manual espresso machines, and if one were foolhardy enough to jump in to that, where one would begin. He recommended the Rancilio Silvia as a good starter, and I am plotting. Since all good comedy is rooted in suffering, I will be sure to share some of my misadventures if I decide to take the plunge.

-Evan

10 Comments

  1. Laura B.
    October 16, 2012

    We have a crazy/intense Italian coffee program at our house, and we swear by the Pavoni. All manual. And while it takes some fiddling with beans and grind and pressure, it is the only way to start our day.

    Reply
  2. Sylvia
    October 16, 2012

    Evan, get thee to an quincaillerie and buy yourself a Bialetti espresso maker…. Green Card taught us all that Frenchmen don’t leave home without it!!!

    Reply
  3. 505whimsygirl
    October 16, 2012

    I must confess, I am a froo froo coffee drinker. Please add the sweetner, mocha and cream. I’m afraid I wouldn’t be able to do espresso. Heck, today I’m already suffering from the jitters and I don’t know why!

    Love the heart in your coffee. How nice to find a quaint little coffee house. Just love it.

    Hugs,
    Kay

    Reply
  4. Lindsey
    October 16, 2012

    I am beyond overjoyed to have introduced Télescope to you both! I didn’t even need to “sell it” to you because I knew it would be right up your alley. Let’s make it our RDV spot on subsequent visits (next time, you MUST try the fromage blanc topped with granola and a dollop of jam). Keep us apprised of your coffee adventures at home!

    Reply
  5. Jodi
    October 17, 2012

    …droool

    Reply
  6. Kyle
    October 17, 2012

    The Silvia is a nice choice but make sure you check out the new Breville Dual Boiler. It’s a bit more than the Silvia but it has a number of nice features including a PID and adjustable preinfusion. Good luck!

    Reply
  7. Victoria
    October 17, 2012

    Spotted your book in the Au Bon Marche book section on a recent jaunt to paris…totally gorgeous…only wish I had had room in my weekend bag to bring it home :( will just pine over your blog until next time!

    Reply
  8. Nikita
    October 18, 2012

    I love my coffee cuppa! Be it the fancy Cappuccino or the Indian filter coffee…love coffee is almost every form! Loved your pictures as always!

    Reply
  9. Susan
    October 19, 2012

    I look forward to experiencing this with Lindsey myself! (someday…will have twins with me I’m sure!)

    Reply
  10. tunie
    November 3, 2012

    Love those glass tea mugs in photo 2. Love.

    Reply

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