The Coffee Shop
Bristol is a suburban town about 20 miles outside of Hartford, CT. Home of the studios for ESPN and the oldest continuously operating theme park. It was once a major clock-making center, and the American Clock & Watch Museum is in the town.
Gary Burghoff, the actor best known for the role of Corporal “Radar” O’Reilly from the hit show M.A.S.H., was born in Bristol. However, there aren’t any visible celebrations of that celebrity near The Roasted Bean.
The coffee shop is in a small shopping center, and many spots are available in the lot for bike parking. As I dismounted the bike and walked in, I noted black wood panels on the ceiling and dark flooring with dark gray paint on the walls, contributing to an overall dark theme. The counter to order has a bit of lighter brown wood on the front of it. Several Edison bulbs hang down above it. A selection of pastries was in the display case to the side.
A large group took up many tables, leaving some available space on the counters and a couple of swiveling leather chairs near the front window. Several customers come in for takeout so that it can be busy.
Coffee options included drip coffee, espresso, cortado, cappuccino, cafe latte, breve, mocha latte, and americano. If coffee wasn’t your preference, you could also choose from several teas, breakfast sandwiches, toast, oatmeal, smoothies, frappes, grilled cheese, and breakfast bowls.
The counter staff had another customer before me but pleasantly greeted me when it was my turn to order. I got a cortado, served in a to-go cup with a dark black sleeve and the roasted bean logo, continuing the dark theme of colors. I also got an apple Danish that they offered to warm up for me.
The cortado had a nice smooth texture, balancing the milk and espresso. While I prefer cortado to be served in a glass to admire the caramel color, this was perfect for one served on paper. The warmed Apple danish was light and fluffy with a delicious spiced apple flavor.
The strip mall exterior belies a remarkable interior and even better refreshments at the Roasted Bean. I’d strongly encourage you to ride over there and sample some of their offerings.
