It's Cool to be Cool

It seems that, today, we will do anything we can to earn a token of acceptance. I imagine most of us share a common subconscious expression that's, "If someone else is doing it, I think I will too."
Face it: it's cool to be cool.

Coffee is something that seems to be progressively getting cooler in the eyes (and mugs) of my generation. Pun aside, society's coffee-boner is a real deal. Coffee has become more than just a morning-starter or a workplace pick-me-up; coffee has become a hobby. And, with entrepreneurship evolving into a trend as well, coffeehouses have sprouted out of endless nooks and crannies with hopes of capturing the hearts of passersby and becoming the next go-to place and, well, one got me. Agora.

Smack-dab in the middle of Houston's Westheimer Road is a collection of antique shops, eateries, and dives that share a singular similarity; their strive for uniqueness. Smack-dab in the middle of that collection lies a coffee shop that succeeds in standing out. And though it greets you with a sense modesty,  there is plenty of evidence supporting the idea that Agora knows exactly how brilliant it truly is.

As you push through the front door, you'll be greeted with the sound of a fully-stocked jukebox that looks as if it could've been whacked by The Fonz once or twice. The perfectly lit room offers seating at a plethora of antique tables and chairs scattered along the walls and across the spacious bottom floor. To the right, a lonesome sofa provides a comfortable area for larger groups to chill out. A bar stretches across the left side of the house for a more personalized seating experience. Upon climbing one of the steepest set of stairs I've ever seen, one will find an indoor balcony lined with tables for two and areas perfect for studying students, witty writers, and relaxing readers alike. And if watching TV at home isn't good enough, the staff at Agora welcomes you to sprawl out in front of one of theirs.

Agora boasts an onslaught of fresh-brewed coffee. Their house blend, robust but never overpowering, is available for self-service, along with a selection of flavored brews that is sure to suit any taste. $3.50 will get you unlimited refills on any of these liquid treasures.

Nesteled against the bar is a self-serve showcase which houses fresh pasteries. The selection here ranges from simplistic to decadent, so one could snack lightly, or indulge if desired.

To the right of the of the checkout counter is a cooler filled from top to bottom with an impressive collection of bottled brews that will easily please a beer-drinker of any caliber. Atop the bar, and ripe for the picking, a baracade of winebottles makes it's presence known as you take your seat.  I feel that Agora doesn't see alcohol as a focal point, but rather, as an element spiked with the capabilty to enhance the already-abundant sense of relaxation one will find there. So, if you're looking to comfortably and responsibily unwind, it's almost as if you're encouraged to do so, but, if you're looking to "party down" or "get your drink on," may your search continue.

When you're looking for the perfect cup of coffee, alone or with friends, and you've decided you're at peace with the fact that your ruthless desire for social in-ness is acceptable, why not make yourself seen and get your cozy on at Agora? The door stays swinging from 9:00a to 2:00a everyday.

Smoothies, Kid. Smoothies.

I enjoy smoothies on a very regular basis. I've decided to provide homemade recipes for a few of the smoothies I prepare throughout my week. Those recipes can be found here.

All of my smoothies contain fruits/berries that I have purchased fresh, cut into chunks that can be easily blended, portioned into single servings, and frozen. Besides being a necessary method of organization, this process has done two things; provided a longer lasting supply of produce and eliminated the need for ice in my smoothies. Also, I've found that frozen fruit, in most cases, tastes better in smoothies.

For me, there are a few rules when it comes to smoothie consumption:

1) Fruits must be fresh (as opposed to canned, IQF is okay)
2) Juices must not be from concentrate nor contain added sweeteners
3) Yogurt must be plain
4) Ice should rarely (if ever) be needed

Please note that the practices above are not mandatory to achieve brilliant smoothies. They're just a set of guidelines that make my smoothie-making hobby as pleasant as possible.