In August, on a brief trip to Arizona, I stopped by Coffee Plantation on Frank Llyod Wright Blvd. in Scottsdale to visit my friend Megan, the manager, and to work on a commissioned illustration on my laptop (yay free wifi!).
If you're already a Coffee Plantation regular, you're probably well acquainted with Megan — and she no doubt remembers your name, your drink and how you like it, your significant other and/or kids names and the last subject you talked about. It's nice to feel like you're a real person, not just an order number on a receipt. Plus you can get your caffeine fix supporting a local business rather than another big-name chain.
Besides friendly service, Coffee Plantation offers a selection of games, a take one/give one library of books, and as I mentioned before, free wi-fi. The works of local artists are featured on the walls and updated monthly. All these comforts make it a nice place to hang out with friends, sip your coffee, read a book or work on your laptop. But if you're in a hurry there's also a drive up Window.
I chose a scone from the tempting selection of baked goods by the register. They come from a variety of local bakeries. (all baked goods are served freshly warmed). Next, a coffee to go with my scone, iced because it's Arizona. I have to report how perfect this iced coffee was - no cream or sugar required, the taste was that good on it's own. Megan explained to me how Coffee Plantation makes it's iced coffees with a 24 hour cold brew (called a Toddy brew) so it has a smoother flavor. Most coffee shops take a short-cut and just ice a hot brew. They also feature a cute kids menu since caffeine's probably not a good idea for toddlers and tweens.
If you live in the area or you're in town for a visit be sure to stop in or drive through.