Catalina Coffee: Joanne Witt photos
One of my go-to places for a cup of coffee is Catalina Coffee on Washington Avenue. The space is inviting and has Wi-Fi available. It's a great place to nest for a while, visit with friends or do a little work.
Max Gonzalez
I look forward to my chats with owner Max Gonzalez. His knowledge of coffee never ceases to amaze. The coffee locally roasted at Amaya Roasting Company is a testament to how passionate Max is to his trade.

On my last visit, Max brewed me an espresso with a Bourbon coffee grown at in the mountains around Apaneca, El Salvador. This particular bean was a 2009 winner of the Cup of Excellence.

What I drank was an even cup of coffee with the flavors of berries, milk chocolate, peach, and more. Doesn't it sound like wine-speak? (I will be forced to increase my coffee vocabulary if I continue to hang out with the local barristas.)

Stop by Catalina for not only an excellent cup of Joe, but an education. Just between us, I like going there, as well, for Max’s warm smile and charming laugh. He never ceases to make me feel welcome. By the way, Catalina also sells its roasted beans.

I am hardly ever without a bag of freshly roasted coffee from Catalina in my pantry. It just doesn’t last very long.