While passing through Billings, I googled coffee shops. A couple came up with 4.8 stars, even a 4.9, but when we saw the number of reviews, Black Dog Coffee House won.
Upon entering, you see everything you expect to see in a coffee shop. The woman taking our order was professional and friendly.
Now Iâm not going to say that paying almost $30 for two drinks and two chocolate croissants wasnât a bit of sticker shock? But the moment we took the first sip? In the top three coffee shops in the 17 states that weâve been in since mid-May, without a doubt. The coffee to breve ratio was outstanding, the coffee flavor impeccable.
And then we tasted the chocolate croissant. They would have been worth it had our final bill been $50.
I have to stop and give context. Iâve lived in France and traveled in Europe extensively (as a student, on a studentâs budget, lest I sound too âdoo-wahâ). As a vegetarian, the cuisine wasnât my thing. The bread, on the other hand? Absolutely my thing. And in Europe, bread is amazing. Itâs like without even trying, they made it perfect. And doesnât matter what it is, croissants, baguettes, pretzels. You name it they outdo us.
The chocolate croissants (and I assume all the pastries) are made in-house. When I spoke with the baker who creates these masterpieces, I expected an accentâŚFrench, undoubtedly. Nope! American as they come! But gifted beyond all but a few!
If youâre within 100 miles, you should go out of your way to visit Black Dog Coffee. But seriously. There should be some way to give them more than 5 stars, much like students who achieve a 4.37 GPA? Thatâs Black Dog...
   Read moreIâm a coffee enthusiast. Iâve spent years perfecting my morning V60 at home, fussing over paper types, brewing temp and filter placement, so I rarely expect a coffee shop to surprise me. But earlier today, my wife and I were on our way to Washington when we pulled off the highway and discovered this little coffee shop tucked into a quiet corner of town.
When I took that first sip, I felt genuine warmth in the cup. The roast was balanced just right, the milk was silky smooth and every flavor note stood outânothing was masked and nothing felt rushed. It wasnât flashy or over-engineered, it was just coffee made with care.
I couldnât leave without thanking the barista and all employees. Their bright smile felt like running into old friends. If I lived nearby, I know theyâd ask âThe usual?â before I even spoke, and Iâd feel right at home saying yes. This place isnât chasing trends, itâs pouring care into every cup. If youâre passing through, treat yourself to a real, heartwarming coffee. You...
   Read moreI learned about this place from some locals when we asked about the best coffee houses to go to the next day. They were correct! I make a point now to stop every time I'm in Billings.
This coffee shop is located near downtown but on the edge of what I consider residential. In the summer you can sit outside. When you walk inside it's light and bright with a warm feeling. The staff is beyond friendly and helpful. They will reach over the counter to say hi and shake hands to the locals they know as well as make rounds to greet everyone and fill coffee cups. They simply make you feel at home. The walls are filled with original works of art from artists in the surrounding areas changed out monthly or so. You can purchase the art from a local gallery-Terakedis Fine Art and Jewelry.
They serve coffee of all sorts, breakfast, sandwiches and wraps...desserts and I'm sure more. Everything is homemade! This is a must stop when or if you...
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