Cuppa Mocha Mud

Java Joys to Explore

The Mudd Puddle, Frederick, MD

I had the opportunity to go to this unique coffee shop over the weekend while antique shopping in Frederick, MD. I was really looking forward to my experience here as I had looked them up online before going.

My only disappointment is that they took my order and money and then promptly forgot about me. Twenty minutes later, I wandered up again to find out how my order was coming along and it was as if they had never seen me. I almost had to pull my receipt out again!!! Come on, folks, I was just up at this same counter 20 minutes ago and there hasn't been anyone else in here since then! Anyway, they rectified the situation completely by giving me my order FREE! So, of course, it tasted even better! Now, if I had been on a tight schedule, I don't know that I would be as pleased.

As for the decor, it was extremely eclectic - every wall seemed to be made from a different material. One had exposed beams, others were plastered/painted (one had a mural of a sidewalk cafe on it)... it helped me pass the time waiting as I checked out an artist's work that was hanging everywhere. There was a hodge-podge of tables, couches and chairs too which made it fun! The building is old and that added a special aura to the experience.

I got a special coffee drink (I forget the name) that was supposed to taste like an Almond Joy. It had chocolate, almond and coconut syrups in it along with the espresso, milk and mandatory whipped cream. Deeeelish! It was a good imitation to be sure and one I would revel in again. It was served in a regular coffee mug so the $3.50 price tag seemed a big steep. Most of the specialty coffee drinks were around $4. Regular drinks were in the $2 range. Sandwiches were running $4-$7 - I decided to go with The Ultimate Grilled Cheese sandwich. I was delighted to find out they made it with pesto! That added an extra zing - along with the Italian flatbread. It was a sandwich I could savor again and again!

I look forward to another visit at the Puddle - hopefully, my face is imprinted in their memories now and I won't be easily forgotten... however, if it got me another free meal, I might not be too offended.

The Bean Scene - Ashburn, VA

UPDATE: Sadly, this cafe is no longer in existence but another has taken its place. However, I have not had a chance to visit the new place and give a review.
The Bean Scene is located right off of Waxpool (I think it is still Waxpool at this point)near the Ashburn Ice House in the new plaza they just built. It is run by an Asian couple who are extremely friendly and helpful. The wooden chairs in their shop were personalized with the coffee cup "stamp" by the owners. The oversized comfy chairs are easily moved around to acccomodate larger groups (as we did the other night)and the assortment of books and magazines are an obvious invitation to stay and enjoy your cup of coffee down to the last drop. No rushing here. The soft lighting creates a nice touch that exudes warmth and welcome. Definitely a thumbs up establishment! More info on prices and menu features to come... stay tuned.

2nd Shot of Java Joy

Mello Out - Middleburg, VA

Their specialty is homemade marshmallows; however, a cup of coffee is a great reason to stop at this cellar shop too! A couple of patio style tables are located throughout the shop space but it is not an ideal sit-down coffee shop. It is a fascinating place to visit though as it is literally located in the cellar of a building - go down two sets of steps and see the original cellar walls as you go. The prices are comparable to other coffee places but the menu is not large. Definitely a place to visit at least once! Middleburg alone is worth visiting even if you don't stop for coffee.

International Java Joys to Explore on Your Journey

coffee shops enjoyed around the world

Butlers Chocolate Cafe - Dublin, Ireland

I discovered this delightful place on a recent trip to Dublin, Ireland. It appears you can order their chocolate online but not their ground coffee. Check out the menu though and you'll be on your way to idyllic Ireland before you know it!

Informational Coffee Links

Coffee Trivia

Did you know that one pound of ground coffee beans makes approx 50 cups of coffee? or that the first coffee house opened in Berlin in 1721? Read these and 27 other great coffee trivia.