Antigua Coffee Company — Restaurant in Meridian

Stopped into Antigua for a much needed caffeine break. I looked up the address to this place and it seemed oddly familiar. Pulled into the Fred Meyers parking lot and knew exactly where to go. This joint used to be another coffee shop 10 years ago. I studied here with my classmates over many cups of coffee. Today it is Antigua.

Walking in, you would have never known it was a different coffee shop. I didn't even recognize the place. It is completely stunning. I love the bright walls with the big pictures. The first thing that caught my eye was the beautiful art piece above the fireplace, it's gorgeous. The plants added a welcoming touch. As vibrant as the yellow walls were, it wasn't overwhelming.

I was greeted by the barista behind the counter. She was kinda hard to see at first, she was tucked away in the corner. I ordered my usual small iced americano with room for cream. What I appreciate about this joint is that they have quite a few sugar free options. Today I got sugar free chocolate, what a fun option. While she was getting my drink made it checked out their wall of nick nacks.

The wall was filled with the most lovely pieces. It showed their heritage and roots all in one wall. Each piece was delicately placed. It was neat to see all the fun colors, different dolls and photos. Whoever decorated this wall did a magnificent job! Each piece on that wall was so unique.

The sweet gal had me drink ready. It looked delicious! It also looked more on the breve side than an iced americano but that's OK. It was still delicious! Since there was more half and half, it was a heavier drink but you can still taste the espresso and sugar free chocolate.

I chatted with the sweet gal. She's the daughter of the owner. I complimented her on how stunning the shop is. She was very proud to tell me her parents were behind it all. Nothing is more touching than seeing the child of an owner so proud of their parents. Running a small business isn't for the weak. It was just the sweet gal and I so we got to chat for a minute. It was late afternoon so the shop was very quite and chill. It had a great vibe to the joint.

Antigua is beautiful. They produced a great cup of coffee for me today. And they are a local joint. Proud I got to come in today and check this place out! My grandma is around the corner and now I have a nice place to head to for coffee when I'm in her area. I look forward to...

VERDICT: I definitely recommend a pollo y queso (chicken and cheese) papusa and an Americano with a small hit of half-n-half (hot, not iced). This is a new comfort food combo that soothes the soul.

FOOD: The chicken and cheese papusa has a tender stretch and pull, filled with just enough chicken and cheese to accompany the bread, but not overpower it. I also enjoyed their pork, beans, and cheese. Their pork was tender, juicy, and otherwise excellent in flavor. Their other menu items look phenomenal, so I'll definitely be back to progressively eat the whole menu and update this over time.

DRINK: The Americano had bold flavor squarely in the medium roast range, unencumbered by any tannins or acidity (sourness). The temperature and extraction looked excellent. Don't sweeten it if you want the full bloom and flavor. Their cold brew was also excellent.

SERVICE: Great hospitality that really evokes the family vibe while maintaining a very professional operation. I love that the mother (who also cooked my food / might be the cook always) is quite warm and inviting. She also knew many of the people over the course of the time I was there (working on my computer). She carries such a kind presence.

ATMOSPHERE: Great. Music was present but not detracting from conversation. It wasn't retail style music (a smattering of Imagine Dragon's and other neutral, bland nothingness), though some of it was still recognizable. With the volume down, it didn't catch my attention or make difficult...

I have been coming here just over a year and I have never been disappointed. Their Antigua Breakfast is my favourite. Their Huevos Rancheros is my husband’s favourite. Their portions are very generous. I usually have leftovers or I am uncomfortably full. Their burrito bows is great because I eat half of the inside then wrap the rest in the tortilla and have a second meal later. And this is coming from a very hungry and pregnant gal. All of their pupusas are so satisfying. I usually get the Loroco or Frijol con queso. Cortado’s are how I judge a place on their coffee and they hit it on the mark every time. I love their cucumber limeade. The sweetest family runs the business. Whenever we come in they recognize us and are so lovely. One time they even gave us a couple of free, fresh out of the oven pastries. The guava cream cheese danish is a must have. My only complaint is that they are not open on Sundays and that’s usually when my husband and I are in town but if we are here any other day we make it a point to come in for breakfast or lunch. I will always recommend Antiguas! I hope they are around for many...