Nashville Food Blog

My life in Nashville involves a constant search for an americano as good as the one they make at LaVa Café in Philly, a small coffee shop across from my family's place that also happens to make some serious breakfast sandwiches. Call me what you will--yuppie! bobo!! democrat!!!--but if I'm gonna be paying for caffeine outside my house I usually go for espresso. A perfect americano is strong, piping hot and retains that beautiful espresso crema on the top. So far, Crema is my favorite locally, but last weekend I discovered some stiff competition. On Sunday, I headed with a friend to Ugly Mugs up in the new Walden development across from Rosepepper and Eastland Café. The americano was excellent--and they dutifully followed my instructions: not too much water, room for cream. One thing Crema, Ugly Mugs and Marché (also great americanos) have in common is Drew's Brews. That man knows his beans.

In addition to the tasty drinks, Ugly Mugs had a great atmosphere, and the place was bustling (especially with Portland Brew across the street closed for Jesus). I'll definitely be heading back.

And, like Rick Sanchez, they twitter. It's a great way to find out when their fresh baked goods arrive.