Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this column are those of the author.
It was a cool, overcast day on Dec. 17 when Dean and I drove down to Broad Street
for an afternoon of shopping. We stopped in at the Book Tavern for its Christmas Open
House where Charmain Z. Brackett and Ron Baxley Jr. were signing copies of their
books. We visited with them for a bit then headed down to New Moon Cafe for a nice,
hot drink to warm our spirits.
A sandwich board in front of the entrance to the cafe welcomed us with a menu of
seasonal coffee and tea drinks.
Dean chose the White Chocolate Peppermint Mocha and I went for the Sweater Weather
Tea. I was excited to see that my beautiful friend Ruby Culpepper, local artist and
musician, was making coffee drinks behind the counter. I watched her give a lot of care
and attention in making our beverages. She is an excellent barista. It was so good to see
her again as it’s been several years since we last crossed paths. Her pink hair made my
heart smile.
Dean and I took one of the outdoor tables to sit and enjoy our drinks. The White
Chocolate Peppermint Mocha was made with espresso, steamed milk, and a tasty
combination of white chocolate and peppermint syrups. My Sweater Weather Tea had an Earl Grey base with lavender, honey and almond milk. The flavor combinations made
an interesting and delicious treat for each of us.
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As we sat talking and enjoying our drinks, a steady flow of pedestrians passed by with
many of them stopping in to order a coffee or a bite to eat at New Moon Cafe. The
afternoon was simply perfect for people watching. Sipping a delicious hot drink on a cool
day made everything just perfect.
New Moon Café isn’t the only local coffeehouse serving up special holiday blends.
Buona Caffe has its annual limited edition Holiday Roast. This coffee
will only be available through New Year’s Day. Part of the proceeds from sales of Holiday Roast will benefit Lynndale.
“Lynndale is a community support service that helps adults with disabilities access employment and community resources, develop life skills, and participate in group and individual activities,” according to the organization’s website.
Buona Caffe has supported Lynndale for several years. It’s one of the ways that Buona Caffe gives back to the local community.
Columnist Francie Klopotic can be found about the town attending concerts, arts exhibitions and almost any event highlighting Augusta’s cultural offerings.
