I’m digging The Albina Press, a coffeehouse here in Portland, OR.  I came here specifically to try shots pulled by Billy Wilson, this year’s USBC runner up, but quickly came to love the general feel of the place.

The cafe is in the Albina neighborhood, which feels like an ex-industrial neighborhood turning over into a hip, bohemian place to “just chill.”  The people here are relaxed, frequently tattooed, and roll through the shop looking for individually tailored espresso fixes.

My first impression entering the place was one of space.  It’s very open and spacious inside, with plenty of space around the bar.  The decor is a balance of the rugged and a more modern chic, just like the neighborhood outside.  I love the cool juxtaposition of the distressed hardwood floors and newer cafe furniture.

The bar occupies the center space like a monument to the bean.  Barista awards are draped around it and  a focused barista is stationed the Marzocco behind it.  The man with the tattoos on both arms is apparently the dude himself.  He mans the equipment with the concentration of an artist oblivious to the surrounding world.  It’s cool to see that level of detailed focused on providing me with the perfect cup.

My shot came up and he yelled out, “ristretto!”  That shot was quite short, chocolate-flavored, and very airy.  It was good enough to order a second, but Billy waved my money away when I admitted that the first was a bit shorter than I was accustomed to.  I would have been happy to pay for both, but I just love that level of attention to detail and dedication to perfection!