Capital Roasters

OK I have never, until now, been to Capitol Roasters. And I still wouldn't have, except I was meeting someone who has offered to help me get my small business moving in some direction. Kevin DeGregorio, of Impact Professional Services, agreed to spend a few minutes chatting with me.

I didn't have any problems finding a parking spot. Although there was a little traffic, there weren't nearly as many vehicles as I was expecting. I walked in from the Summer Street side, curious as to why this little coffee-shop was chosen.

At first it reminded me of a little restaurant at the Honolulu International Airport. (This is more because of the layout, as opposed to the ambiance or volume of customers.) The counter was larger than I imagined and there was an offering of pastries, cakes and coffees on the menu that sends the inexperienced into a stupor. Personally I'm not into exotic coffee, and sweets at breakfast have been taboo for years. This day I decided to live on the edge. I ordered a mocha chocolate espresso thing.

The room was cozy. Light jazz played on the speakers. The lights were low, but it was only 8 am. There was the seemingly popular "warehouse" feel, with the exposed ductwork and rafters. Muted greens and reds accented the walls, giving a warm, welcome feel. The tables and chairs had a rustic, country flavor. A black leather couch and love seat smartly situated at the fireplace, inviting you to kick-back with a good book for a while.

At that time of the morning there weren't many people relaxing. The small rush of five or six appeared to be stopping for a morning jolt before the late summer workday began. I noticed four people, other than myself, simply passing time. One young lady, hopelessly lost in her book, sat at the dormant fireplace, oblivious to her surroundings.

A business man, executive type, sat alone reading the morning news until a friend strolls by. He raised his head, and then called out a warm greeting. They shared the morning, coffee and discussed the news of the day.

As my conversation with Kevin moved along, I did notice an increase in activity. It wasn't long before a small crowd gathered. Most folk made their trade and headed off to start their day. A couple people settled in to enjoy their treasure. One gentleman popped-open his laptop computer and settled down to work.

My meeting went well. Capitol Roasters was a nice choice for the informal session. Turns out Kevin works close by, and stops in regularly.

Now, I need to think of a reason to get downtown more often.