In addition to fun signature drinks and yummy treats, Alpha Coffee in Cottonwood Heights supports a cause everyone can get behind.
For my first official ~review~ I want to write about a truly unique shop I visited a couple weeks ago. Typically, as a devoted "iced" fan, I would say coffee shops are generally better in the summer (especially if they have patio space! Just add sunglasses, 80 degree temps, and there you have it - heaven), but visiting Alpha Coffee on a snowy day was definitely the right choice.
Located in Cottonwood Heights and lined with expansive windows, the views at Alpha are likely the best I've ever seen at a coffee shop.
I ordered the Honey Badger, an item from the menu's "Signature Drinks" section. The online menu describes it as "creamy, cinnamon-infused milk with organic honey melted into 2 shots of espresso" and it did NOT disappoint. I knew from the first sip that it reminded me of another drink I've had, and I later realized I was thinking of another cinnamon-heavy latte I've had at Royal Coffee Bar in Tempe, Arizona.
I got the Honey Badger iced (old habits die hard) but I can imagine sipping on its hot counterpart during a cozy coffee-shop visit on a snowy day like the one I visited on. Coffee shops that have a part of the menu dedicated to fun concoctions or signature lattes (rather than the typical list of "latte," "americano, "drip") get huge bonus points in my book; it not only helps you figure out what to order if you're stumped, but also gives you a glimpse into the unique ingredients or flavors offered at the shop.
I also noted the presence of matcha on the menu, a trendy beverage I've noticed can be hard to come by (though not nonexistent) in Utah coffee shops. I'd be curious to try that next time.
I definitely recommend coming to Alpha Coffee hungry. The pastry case was massive, dotted with delicious goodies both sweet and savory. I'm drawn to anything with lavender like a lady in Target is drawn to the dollar section, so I of course got a lavender scone. It was the perfect mix of hearty and soft, which can be a tough balance to strike with scones.
My dad (my coffee-shop buddy who told me about the existence of Alpha Coffee) got a fun-shaped danish that looked crisp and buttery, and black coffee, which came in a hearty Alpha mug. He also scored a frosted sugar cookie for my mom that was so pretty it warranted a super close-up shot that helps you practically taste the crunchy sprinkles and swooping icing.
In addition to the stunning views, vast menu and yummy treats, perhaps the most notable thing about Alpha Coffee is its veteran roots. Owned by a combat veteran and his wife, the shop co-hosts the Tillman Honor Run in April along with the ASU Alumni Association. In addition, the shop sends coffee to overseas troops through a program sure to spark support in any coffee lover.
Digging around on the site also shows me that Alpha is in the process of starting up a mobile unit called the Battle Wagon (love), so soon you won't have to travel up to Cottonwood for a fix. Though I do recommend it.
If you're a coffee lover heading up the mountains to hit the slopes (I cannot relate but I admire you) or simply wanting to check out a shop that offers delicious treats and supports a good cause, a visit to Alpha Coffee is so worth it.
Address:
7260 Racquet Club Dr Suite A
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121
Hours:
6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. every day
(Source)
Perks:
Gorgeous views
Supports a good cause
Friendly baristas
Amazing baked-goods selection
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