Fresh off my first caffeine fast in over 3 years, I’ve accomplished one of my “maker” goal thanks to the generous Christmas contributions of Grandma Ruth, my parents, and my in-laws! Yes, I’ve opened my own coffee shop in Nashville, the Cracked Bean. Residing at 517 North Wilson in the Richland West End neighborhood, it is outfitted with a coffee roaster and multiple brewing choices, it’s ready to serve the most discriminating coffee drinkers. Reservations suggested!

Of course, it means I’ll be permanently hooked on caffeine now. With over 10 different varieties of green coffee beans in the house and multiple roast profiles (length of roast), I’ve got an almost unlimited array of choices in front of me. And I have to try them all. I consider this a prelude to making my own beer, something that will take considerably more space and time than I currently have.

I’ve gone through 5 roasting cycles already and have now permanently moved onto the porch, since I’ve found out that roasting inside gives our smoke detectors a good work out. Just finished up a Sumatran this morning, so I can’t wait to get yet another roast done tomorrow.

On top of the roaster, I’ve also invested in an Aeropress and other accouterments, such as raw beans, bean storage, and coffee machine cleaner. The Aeropress is sort of a cross between a french press and a one cup pour-over. It makes very sublime coffee and now I’m trying to figure out how to get one for work.

But the best part is drinking. As it should be. And I’m doing the best I can to drag all my friends and family into the coffee aficionado world, one cup at a time.

So be sure to stop by and see what’s being roasted today! You might even be lucky enough to watch the maestro achieve the perfect City+ roast for his Colombian Huila (just give me a few more months of practice…).