Coffee That Matters by Phoenix Roasters — Restaurant in Duluth

When I say I want a brisket sandwich, this is what I mean. THIS is my new standard. What did I do to deserve such a wonderful treat?

As I work in the area, I’ve visited this coffee shop quite a few times in the past. Not only has their cold brew continued to challenge my idea of what coffee even is, but their Panama Black is the quintessential pique of cold brew black coffee for me.

I recently learned that they started serving lunch and decided to make today the second day in a row I’d visit, because Fridays are their Sammie of the Week (day).

Their special was the brisket sandwich, and at $13.95.. I hesitated. It’s not a lot for a brisket sandwich, but guys, this is a coffee shop, so my expectations were set as such.

Anyway, thanks to Sean (awesome name, btw!), I decided to follow through on why I even came here for a second day in a row. And wow, am I blown away.

The simple treatment of freshly cracked black pepper over the tomatoes, the crisp pickles that rivaled those I’ve had from artisnal delis, and the 5!!!! Slabs of brisket on my sandwich, made this an absolute no brainer. If you love brisket, you HAVE TO GET THIS SANDWICH (if they do it again). I mean, guys, they even paid attention to the way they sautéed the onions.

I will say, I can see a world in which the BBQ sauce is hit or miss, as it is definitely a vinegar-forward BBQ sauce. I would taste test before applying.

This isn’t just a spot for coffee that matters. It’s a place for experiences that will redefine what you think of a coffee shop. I cannot speak highly enough of this establishment, and it sure is nice I no longer have to go all the way to Marietta to find a...

UPDATE (10/17): I came back and got an Americano. I could detect the flavors of the beans this time, which I really appreciated. I was greeted warmly by the cashier, who wanted to know if I needed help or not. I'm glad I came back to give a second try.

I got the latte with oat milk. It was okay. The milk was frothed a bit too much for my taste. And the espresso was kinda non distinct. I would think a roastery would enhance the flavor of the beans a bit more.... Or maybe it was a blend? Anyhow, the espresso was not explained to me, which I usually prefer connecting with the baristas over. That's what I was missing here, too ... The usual connection and conversation with the staff. I admit, I had my two year old with me who was running around and hitting the drums on the little live music stage.... Which maybe that makes for an understandable reason why the baristas / cashiers didn't feel like chatting with me.... Hahaha

Also, I got a breakfast burrito that tasted a bit... Off... Like it was supposed to have bacon, cheese and egg ...but I definitely tasted a funky ranch taste in it. I'm not sure if ranch was included in the ingredients list, bc I wasn't given the opportunity to look at the wrapper, but the taste has me thinking that the burrito was a bit off.

My kid loved the grape juice box he got.

Overthinking aside, this was a "meh"...

Phoenix gets a high rating from me because of their mission statement. Things you should know: I. PARKING Phoenix roasters is within a plaza and shares a public lot with the adjacent businesses. Easy. They also have a drive through ~ pretty rare for a local small business to offer! II. SERVICE They allow you to sample the cold brews before buying..! That was a unique quirk. Their mission as a company is to empower the farmers that grow the coffee beans. They purchase directly, prior to roasting, to give a direct fund to the laborers. No third party transactional fees, causing a loss of funds towards the farmers. Each bag sold also contributes to domestic relief projects. They're helping the local community. III. QUALITY I've only had a cold brew from here but would say it's light in flavor. Not dark. IV. CAPACITY Moderate availability of tables on a weekday afternoon. This is a great location to knock out...