VIVA VERVE More than simply a vivacious attitude, it’s an expanding coffee roasting empire. With the original 41st Avenue site humming along, co-owners Ryan O’Donovan and Colby Barr have just opened a second shop smack dab in the middle of the funky industrial zone just off Seabright and Murray. Stopping by this week for some industrial-strength lattes, we found lots to like. The attitude at the latest Verve is distinctly bohemian compared to the ultra-chic Pleasure Point operation. With a surprisingly large population of working neighbors—around 300 folks are engaged in some kind of industry at this busy corner loaded with cavernous warehouses, according to barista Lizzy Sampson—there is a huge 10am rush for Verve’s exceptional espresso output. Brilliant red espresso cups and saucers add to the visual excitement. But since the miniature coffeehouse adjoins the enormous roasting operation, lined floor to ceiling with bags of coffee beans, there is a whole lot to watch while you’re getting caffeinated. Add one of those addictive morning buns or scones, and OMG, you are completely fueled for the day. 104 Bronson St., open 7am-5pm daily.
The word is—since you’re anxious to know—the downtown Santa Cruz location (next to Jamba Juice) should be ready for action by very early next month.
LATE-BREAKING-JAW-DROPPING-IT’S-ALL-TRUE-NEWS-FLASH Even though there have been no actual signatures yet, Paul Geise of Ristorante Avanti acknowledges that yes, he and the landlord of the former Hawgs-turned-Coldwater have shaken hands on the deal you’ve been hearing about. Avanti, for decades a landmark in the tiny strip mall at Palm and Mission Street, will be moving down the road a few clicks to the Coldwater location. Geise thinks probably around the first of the year the all-new, expanded Avanti will be up and running.
“We’ve got a lot of work to do to turn the place into a food restaurant, rather than a bar and grill,” Geise told me last week. “There aren’t even any prep tables.”
No question that this might take a while for longtime devotées of Avanti to wrap their brains around. “We’ve kind of outgrown this location,” Geise admitted. “And parking is really an issue for many of our patrons.” I have to agree with that. But a change like this is bound to create controversy, both pro and con, with longtime customers addicted to the small, rustic charms of the existing Avanti. On the other hand, it sounds exciting. So stay tuned for more developments.
Send tips about food, wine and new dining discoveries to Christina Waters at [email protected]. Read her blog at http://christinawaters.com.
