Great Lakes Roasting Company

Great Lakes Roasting Company

3965 Woodward Ave.

http://www.greatlakescoffee.com/

  

After a 3 month hiatus, Detroit Discovery is back up a running! It has definitely been a summer of discovery, both in and out of the city. I found many new "favorites" this summer, and I can't wait to share them within the next few weeks! My first summer find is Great Lakes Roasting Company. 

Personally, I think Great Lakes Roasting came at a perfect time in a perfect place. While Detroit has plenty of chain coffee places (Bigby, Starbucks, etc.) I find that the independent places not only provide a better cup of coffee, but a better more relaxed atmosphere in which to enjoy them. The atmosphere of GL is definitely something I look forward to seeing more of in Detroit. Don't get me wrong, I love the "indie" vibe that a large chunk of Detroit has going on right now, I feel that to attract a more diverse audience, more sophisticated places like GL are going to start popping up. GL is one step up from the traditional Starbucks, while still being able to keep a very "local" feel.

   

Despite providing an excellent cup of coffee, which I will explain later, GL is in what I consider to be a perfect spot. Located on the corner of Woodward and Alexandrine, GL is within walking distance from the Medical Center, Wayne State and the residents of Midtown therefore being accessible to a number of different audiences. During the 4 or so hours I spent at a community table (love it!), I saw a group of architects pouring over the designs for a new building, multiple med students dressed in scrubs, a couple being interviewed by what seemed to be a local newspaper, two brothers planning a party, and an older woman calling places in search of a new apartment.  

First off, the place is huge. Probably twice the size of your average coffee shop, but that's the point I guess. GL is not just a coffee shop, but offers different wines, beers and appetizers as well. Personally I think the diverse offerings may eventually need to be narrowed down. The wide variety was a bit overwhelming. After ordering my coffee, I was confused on whether or not I should sit and they would bring my coffee to me like they were bringing other customers small plates, or stand awkwardly at the bar while they brewed my drink. I never found out which was correct... Despite this overwhelming choices and subtle awkwardness however, no complaints. 

I did my usual, asked the barista for suggestions and he seemed surprised that I asked. The place has only been open for 2-3 weeks, but I thought that would have a definite suggestion, I guess not. When I mentioned I wanted something with caffeine, he highly suggested the chocolate milk espresso. No words, can describe how delicious this espresso was. I'm usually not an espresso kind of girl, but this was awesome. Definitely had caffeine though, as I found myself perusing Facebook still fully conscious at 4 a.m. that morning. While I waited around for my drink, I glanced at the menu. Eclectic is an understatement. That week then where serving everything from scones, to squid ink on toast. I will definitely have to stop by for a light lunch, or late dinner sometime in the future.

Another great thing about GL is the hours. Too often around 8:30pm, I get the itch to head out to a coffee shop and get a in a few hours of studying when I realize that it will be closing in a half hour. GL is open until 11 every night (except Monday when it's open until 4:00pm... strange). 

Next time you are feeling a little classy, grab a couple friends and stop by Great Lakes Roasting Company. Grab a community table and take in the experience of the new people you are bound to meet--an experience I find to be very "Detroit". 

PEACE.LOVE.DETROIT

-Amy