Water Canyon Coffee Co.

(Credit: Angela Franzer, Metromix)

Photos:

I would trade my left arm for a good cup ‘o joe, especially if it’s organic, shade-grown, bird-friendly and fairly-traded.   Something about that combination just tastes better.

I was jonesing for a caffeine fix while on my way to Pioneertown around sundown one evening when I stumbled upon Water Canyon Coffee Company, located off Route 62 in Old Town Yucca Valley.  Instantly intoxicated by the strong aroma of java, I made my way to the front door where I could hear “Sun Kil Moon” blaring from inside. We all know that good coffee + awesome music = a good time, right?

The fare: Water Canyon roasts their own organic, shade-grown coffee and serves up simple, but crisp and delicious, vegetarian-friendly sandwiches for about $7. A refreshing latte or Italian cappuccino will set you back about $4, and beer and wine are available if you're dead set on alcohol.

The vibe: The atmosphere has an inviting, artsy ambiance with flooring reminiscent of an old warehouse, ivy snaking up to the upstairs balcony, mammoth burlap sacks overflowing with whole beans and homemade abstract art adorning the walls. Water Canyon is definitely conducive to creativity, so bring a pen, book of poetry, paintbrush or musical instrument.  Who knows, perhaps you'll find the inspiration to create the next Mona Lisa. Don’t forget to bring your laptop, either. This high desert coffee joint is a wi-fi hotspot, so you can burn a few hours internet surfing. (C’mon, you’ve been meaning to post the photos of your last vacation on Facebook, haven’t you?)

The service: The vibe rocks, but the service is lacking. I got the feeling the two baristas behind the counter were pissed off by customer presence, or maybe all patrons get a free side of evil eye with their order.

The bottom line: Don't let a snotty barista deter you from hitting up this awesome coffee house. For guilt-free java served in an artsy haven, I highly suggest Water Canyon.

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