Tag Archives: Coffee CommuniTea

Today’s Cup o’ Tea: Caffeine Cauldron, Mesa, AZ

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Caffeine Cauldron is a little pop culture shop brewing up delicious witchy/booky/nerdy-named drinks in Mesa, Arizona’s Superstition Springs Mall food court. You’ll find it tucked into a corner near the carousel.

Perks (what I really like!)
With the tagline, “A Cafe For Fans of Fantasy, Whimsy, and All Things Magical,” its theme has a wiccan flair. but also includes fun Pokemon art, books, and other pop-culture references. I love the fun names on their wide range of “magical elixers.” Try a Mando Macchiato, a Espresso Patronum, or a Gandalf the White. Explore the full menu.

I found that the baristas are well-versed in all the types of drinks they serve and the long list of modifiers to make your coffee, loose tea brew, energy drink, or soda all your own.

Share a Cuppa (the stories about the owner, building, history, name)
This East Valley location in the Superstition Springs Mall is the only Caffeine Cauldron in the Phoenix area. The original locations started in Tucson, AZ, where there are two mall locations.

What’s Brewing (coffee, tea, food)
The cozy shop offers standard coffee fare along with loose teas, energy drinks, and dirty sodas with a wide variety of “modifiers,” syrups, and milks. A sweet little pastry case presents a delectable selection of local baked goods.
A favorite draw is the morning “Brew and Bite Bundle:” a choice of a pastry, breakfast sandwich, or bagel plus a 16-oz latte or brewed tea for $9.

Percolation Factor (the activity/environment/energy/service)
From the website:
“At Caffeine Cauldron, we are on a mission to create a unique and welcoming destination for the community, a haven where the love for Pop Culture, Books, Poetry, and Games converge over the perfect cup of coffee. 
We genuinely care about providing a safe and comfortable space for everyone to indulge in their passions, whether it’s delving into a thrilling novel, engaging in epic tabletop battles, or simply savoring a delightful specialty drink crafted with love. Our dedicated and nerd-centric staff will ensure that every visitor feels right at home, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie.”

The Grind (what I would change)
If only there could be more seating within the white picket fence that defines their space in the mall. Of course, the general food court seating is just a few steps away but the shop’s ambience is lost there.

The Grounds (location)
Superstition Springs Mall food court, level 2
6555 E Southern Ave
Mesa, AZ 85206
480.832.0212 or 520.833.3268

Tea Times (hours)
Mon–Sat 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sun 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Yelp rating: _NA_stars from _NA_ reviews

Coffee CommuniTea: GypsyCup, Gilbert, AZ

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It breaks my heart to inform you that GypsyCup permanently closed in Dec. 2022. This was a go-to oasis of peace for me and I will sorely miss it.
—Ann Videan

Today’s Cup o’ Tea
GypsyCup
offering coffee/tea, cocktails, and tapas

Perks (what I really like!)

GypsyCup is one of my new favorite stops for tea and social interaction.

• The barista/servers are well trained, friendly, and especially polite! This is one of the best reasons to visit, for sure.

• The Art Deco-inspired decor! You’ll find the environs pleasing to the eye, welcoming, and comfortable. The website describes it as “a little slice of Europe.”

• The unusual tapas choices are definitely worth tasting! And every tea and coffee drink I’ve tried is delicious. My hubby found his favorite chai latte here.

• A lovely outdoor patio with plenty of seating. Also, mostly shaded with nice trees and foliage, especially important in the Phoenix area!

Share a Cuppa (stories about the owner, building, history, name)

My daughter discovered GypsyCup when it resided inside a day spa in Scottsdale, AZ. She especially liked the cool specials the owner Linsay Smith dreamed up.

Soon after it closed, the GypsyCup Instagram account announced a relocation to downtown Gilbert. The wait for the coffee shops regeneration was absolutely worth it! Linsay created a charming atmosphere and complemented it with excellent food and service.

Those awesome specials have carried forward too. We just recently tried the seasonal Apple Cider Chai. YUM!

Plus, the food cases and shelves in the shop are loaded with interesting, unusual fare. (Keep reading to learn more about those…)

What’s Brewing (coffee, tea, food)

• Coffee and teas
• Croissants (ham and cheese is to die for!)
• Pastries
• Desserts
• Craft beers
• Wines
• Healthy and unique snack items
• Even little gift items, some geared for children

Percolation Factor (the activity/environment/energy/service)

Mostly, I see patrons gathering to chat and socialize. Seats are often filled with patrons using their laptops, though the number of plugs is limited.

I honestly can’t add anything else here not already mentioned. Did I mention “charming,” “excellent service,” and “delicious unusual food?” And the shady patio?

The Grind (what I would change)

More seating inside, perhaps? Sometimes it’s hard to find a spot to sit (especially in the summer when the patio is not as popular).

The Grounds (location)

GypsyCup is easy to find, one block west of Gilbert Road, and one block north of the Gilbert Water Tower landmark.

50 W Vaughn, Suite 107
Gilbert, Arizona

Tea Times (hours)

M-Th: 7 a.m.–8 p.m.
F & Sa: 7 a.m.–10 p.m.
Su: 7 a.m.–5 p.m.

Yelp rating: 4.5 stars from 56 reviews

……………………

I love connecting people and ideas, so I’ve been creating small villages my entire life. Really, what better places can writers and musicians find to create “village” than independent coffee/tea shops? I wrote most of my Rhythms & Muse novel and Delfaerune Rhapsody series-in-progress in coffee/tea venues, so I found it natural to create this blog. Whether you came here to find a new favorite hangout, or suggest a spot not yet posted, may you find Coffee CommuniTea exactly to your taste!

Our Words, Music, and Village community

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About Ann,
(and why she chose “Faerie Dresden” as her cosplay mashup)

The Latest…
(updated 5/14/2026)

The next roundtable gathering of the Alliance for Literary Writers, Authors, & Yabbering Scribes (ALWAYS) writers’ collective, will take place at 12:30 p.m., Wed., June 10, 2026, at The Commons Coffeehouse + Cafe in Gilbert, AZ.
Our authors meet in person monthly to discuss writing and help one another succeed. If you consider yourself an established writer/author, with a manuscript in-the-works or a published title, join us!

Avatar for Book Shepherd Ann Narcisian Videan

 

Come on in!
     I’m so glad you’ve found our online community! Here, we share ideas to create and market better writing, music, and “village.”
     Throw in a few “Coffee CommuniTea” coffee and tea-shop reviews, and we’re golden, right? What better places for writing, enjoying music, and creating community?
     We aim to generate success together, using fresh tactics to get the ‘verse buzzing about cool creative endeavors. Come in and join us…
—Ann

………..

Write on!
Ann Narcisian Videan, Book Shepherd
Write • Edit • Publish

P.S. Learn more about my novels on my Amazon Author Central page.

Find me elsewhere online.

 

Ann Videan’s Phoenix-area writing events this spring:

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Ann with her books at the Tempe Public Library

You may benefit from these writing events…

Alliance for Literary Writers, Authors, and Yabbering Scribes (ALWAYS)

Meet in-person with the ALWAYS writers’ tribe of established authors to discuss writing and support one another. In March, we’re talking about the structure of the ALWAYS group and how to better interact with and support one another. I hope you can join us! (We meet the second Thursday of each month in Gilbert, except for the first Thursday of each quarter when we meet in Phoenix.)
Romeo’s Euro Cafe, downtown Gilbert, AZ
11:30 a.m., Thurs., March 14, 2019

My Words Jump Off The Page!
[A presentation at the Society of Southwestern Authors—Valley of the Sun Chapter.]

Authors, learn a handful of writing and editing techniques to help you discover ways to build visual imagery and emotion, and subconsciously compel readers into your story. I’ll share my thirty years of marketing experience to show you how to make your story “jump off the page” for readers and publishers. In this two-hour hands-on session, explore:

  • The edits I make most often as an editor
  •  What to look for when hiring an editor
  • Leveraging the scene question to develop a compelling plot line
  • Writing with active voice, and deep point-of-view
  • More effective editing tips using MS Word

Tempe Public Library
2:30–4:40 p.m., Sunday, April 28, 2019

Write on!
Ann Narcisian Videan, Book Shepherd
Write • Edit • Publish • Word-of-mouth strategy

P.S. Learn more about my novels on my Amazon Author Central page.

 

Coffee CommuniTea: Festive Cup Coffee, Highlands Ranch, CO

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IMG_3760

Today’s Cup o’ Tea
Festive Cup Coffee – Highlands Ranch, CO

Don’t let the small storefront fool you. This charming spot houses not only an excellent and diverse coffee and tea bar, but a sizable and compelling gift and clothing boutique!

Perks (what I really like!)

  • The gift shop brims with wonderful finds: jewelry, clothing, household items, funny/inspirational desk and wall decor.
  • It’s quiet.
  • The comfortable seating and furniture lends well to either work or a “catch-up” with a friend.

IMG_3768Share a Cuppa

I find the owner—Anthony Whitham—his family and staff always kind, thoughtful and helpful.

Lexi (left) helped me on my last visit. She was so accommodating, plus a sweetheart of a person.

 

What’s Brewing (coffee, tea, food)

In partnership with a local, Colorado-based coffee roaster, Festive Cup offers everything from classic coffee to Frappe Brezzas. Those wanting an alternative to coffee can indulge in “Refresher” smoothies, teas, and other non-coffee alternatives.

My favorite, though… Tea Forté as their tea brand of choice. Per the company’s Web site, they are “known for the variety and unparalleled quality of handcrafted teas, design-driven accessories, exquisite packaging and opulent approach, Tea Forté re-imagines and re-defines the contemporary tea experience by delivering a delighting and luxuriant encounter.” All true, in my estimation.

Percolation Factor (the activity/environment/energy/service)

IMG_3765

Whether you want a place for your bridge club, expect to share a conversation with a loved one, or are looking for that perfect unusual gift that only independent gift stores offer, this is your spot.

It also serves as the perfect getaway for a short respite with a cool refreshing drink in the summer or a warm comforting cuppa in the winter.

The Grind (what I would change)

Nary a thing! I adore visiting this lovely get-away whenever I visit Colorado.

The Grounds (location)

Festive Cup nestles in the corner of an unobtrusive strip mall atop one of the rolling hills in Highlands Ranch—a community in Littleton, CO, of enough size to warrant its own zip code.

50 W. Springer Dr.
Highlands Ranch, CO 81029
(720) 627-5075

Tea Times (hours)

M–Sa. 7 a.m.–6 p.m.
Su. 9 a.m.– 2 p.m.

Yelp rating: 4.5 stars from 35 reviews

 

……………………

I love connecting people and ideas, so I’ve been creating small villages my entire life. Really, what better places can writers and musicians find to create “village” than independent coffee/tea shops? I wrote most of my Rhythms & Muse novel and Delfaerune Rhapsody series-in-progress in coffee/tea venues, so I found it natural to create this blog. Whether you came here to find a new favorite hangout, or suggest a spot not yet not posted, may you find Coffee CommuniTea exactly to your taste!

Coffee CommuniTea form: Add your own favorite tea/coffee shop

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Add your favorite tea or coffee shop to this community! I’m looking for hot spots all over the world, so please share any place you truly enjoy.

Ann at Carmel's Cafe in Phoenix, AZ

Ann at Carmel’s Cafe in Phoenix, AZ

I created the Coffee CommuniTea blog  because I deal with a lot of indie businesses and authors, and — since I love connecting people and ideas — what better place to do it than a coffee or tea shop? Besides, I wrote most of my Rhythms & Muse novel and Delfaerune Rhapsody series-in-progress in such venues.

I already covered many of my favorite hot spots on this site, but want to include your favorites, as well. I would be delighted to add your perfect little meeting place for a “cuppa.”

Simply copy my “Coffee CommuniTea” form (below) into the comments, and fill it out. Or, you can print it out, complete the form, and email it to avidean@videanunlimited.com. 

I will follow up with the owner/manager to fill out any missing details, secure photos, and post everything to this site. Cheers!

…………………………………………………………………………….

Coffee CommuniTea Blog
Contributor Form

Contributor: (your name, city, state, and other contact info you wish to make available, even a mug shot – pun intended)

Today’s Cup o’ Tea (name of shop, its city/state location, its Web site and/or best online site, with its owners’ names and contact emails)

Perks (what I really like!)

Share a Cuppa (the stories about the owner, building, history, name)

What’s Brewing (coffee, tea, food)

Percolation Factor (the activity/environment/energy/service)

The Grind (what I would change)

The Grounds (location)

Tea Times (hours)

Yelp rating: ____ stars from ___ reviews

………..

Write on!
Ann Narcisian Videan, Book Shepherd
Write • Edit • Publish

P.S. Learn more about my novels on my Amazon Author Central page.

Find me elsewhere online.

Coffee CommuniTea: Vinyl Rush Cafe – Downtown Mesa, AZ

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Today’s Cup o’ Tea
Organic Bean Café
[formerly Vinyl Rush Café]
Downtown Mesa, AZ

Park right on the street in front and enter here... ©2013 ANVidean

Park right on the street in front and enter here…
©2013 ANVidean

Perks (what I really like!)

...walk down the courtyard alley...©2013 ANVidean

…walk down the courtyard alley, where you may want to sit later…        ©2013 ANVidean

  • Courtyard seating. A cute, narrow courtyard between the rows of small businesses in the building.
  • Intimate setting. “Side A:” the coffee bar where you order your goodies, and “Side B:” a room across the courtyard where you can sit, chat and listen to music away from the sounds of blenders and counter chatter.
  • Album clocks. The owners decorated with lots of charming music paraphernalia, including a large collection of vinyl record album covers—33s and 45s—which they’ve turned into clocks.

    ...purchase delectables on Side "A" and enjoy them here in the comfort of "Side B." ©2013 ANVidean

    …purchase delectables on Side “A” and enjoy them here in the comfort of “Side B.”
    ©2013 ANVidean

Share a cuppa (the stories about the owner, building, history, name)
Missy, one of the owners, is both a coffee and music lover. She and her coffee partner bring you 38 years in the restaurant, hotel, and retail industry. At Vinyl Rush, they roast their own coffee beans, favoring full-bodied, medium-dark to dark roast styles. Just be ready for it!

What’s Brewing (coffee, tea, food)

  • Fresh roasted coffee
  • Espresso drinks
  • Smoothies
  • Hot teas (a nice selection)
  • Pastries and bagels

The Grind (what I would change)
Not a thing. Just be prepared to enjoy your goodies in a close, intimate setting.

Percolation Factor (the activity/environment/energy/service)
If you want your own album clock, they’ll make one for you. Each is custom designed with the time movement and hands placed creatively to compliment the cover image. http://vinylrushcafe.com/clocks/

The Grounds (location)
Downtown Mesa, AZ
40 N. Macdonald Street
Mesa, AZ 85201
480.615.4333

Tea Times (hours)
Monday – Friday 6:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Yelp rating:
4 stars (62 reviews)

Who recognizes the symbol under their “Vinyl Rush Cafe” signs?

……………………

I love connecting people and ideas, so I’ve been creating small villages my entire life. Really, what better places can writers and musicians find to create “village” than independent coffee/tea shops? I wrote most of my Rhythms & Muse novel and Delfaerune Rhapsody series-in-progress in coffee/tea venues, so it seemed natural to create this blog. Whether you came here to find a new favorite hangout, or suggest a spot not yet not posted, may you find Coffee CommuniTea exactly to your taste!

CBTL answers tea questions

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A graphic I created to enter a CBTL gift card contest. Yep, those are my family's hands. @2010 ANVidean

A graphic I created to enter a CBTL gift card contest a couple of years ago.   Yep, those are my family’s hands. @2010 ANVidean

My favorite tea organization, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, held a live tea chat with their international tea expert David DeCandia today (Jan. 30, 2013). The convo took place in honor of National Hot Tea Month. [Who knew that was going on?]

Even though you didn’t catch it live, the questions and answers are still worth checking out.

Coffee CommuniTea: Pegasus Coffee House, Bainbridge Island, WA

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Today’s Cup o’ Tea
Pegasus Coffee House

A favorite of Jackie Nagel, owner of
business coaching/consulting firm Synnovatia, San Pedro, CA,
who recommended this choice spot.

……………………

Perks (what I really like!)
“The beautiful, nurturing environment and the incredibly good-tasting coffee.”

Photo complements of the Pegasus Coffee House Web site.

Share a cuppa (the stories)
“My first experience with Pegasus Coffee House was when I was still living in Washington State. I arrived early for the ferry to take me to downtown Seattle. With the little bit of extra time I had, I discovered this incredible coffee house shrouded in [Virginia Creeper, which looks a whole lot like] English Ivy.”

History: The Pegasus opened its doors on May 1, 1980. It’s Web site description says it’s “friendly, lively, casual and a bit funky and bohemian.

“The building was formerly home to Anderson Hardware store and its trademark bricks were salvaged from the Port Blakely Mill incinerator.

“Some use it as an office, some as a living room, but it’s always been a hub for information and the arts. The walls play host to local artists works and there’s live coffee house music every week.”

What’s Brewing (coffee, tea, food)
“Love, Love, Love their coffee! Although we moved from the area in 2001, we still order their coffee online. There’s no bitter aftertaste like some of the better-known coffee brews/beans.”

They also offer tasty treats like:

  • Greens and soup
  • Sandwiches
  • Dinner, with available beer, wine and cocktails
  • Desserts

The Grind (what I would change)
“Wish they were local!”

Percolation Factor (the activity/environment/energy/service)
“The people always remember my name when I call in to place my order. It’s nice to be remembered.”

Per the Web site, Pegasus also offers:

  • Free wi-fi
  • Music on Friday and Saturday nights, with a distinct preference for folk and country flavors
  • A 20-person private event room available for parties, or business meetings
  • An outdoor terrace
  • A “Fresh Connections” blog

The Grounds (location)
131 Parfitt Way S.W.
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
206-842-6725

Tea Times (hours)
M–Th.,  Su.: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
F.–Sa.: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Yelp rating: 3.5 stars (49 reviews)

……………………

I love connecting people and ideas, so I’ve been creating small villages my entire life. Really, what better places can writers and musicians find to create “village” than independent coffee/tea shops? I wrote most of my Rhythms & Muse novel and Delfaerune Rhapsody series-in-progress in coffee/tea venues, so it seemed natural to create this blog. Whether you came here to find a new favorite hangout, or suggest a spot not yet not posted, may you find Coffee CommuniTea exactly to your taste!

Coffee CommuniTea: Rocket Bakery On First, Spokane, WA

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Today’s Cup o’ Tea
Rocket Bakery On First

Rocket Bakery On First. Photo by Nathan on Urban Spoon

Perks (what I really like!)
• Great open-air space
• Free Wi-Fi
• Located in a charming old brick building in downtown Spokane, within walking distance of Riverfront Park (site of 1974 World’s Fair)

Share a cuppa (the stories)
• Locally owned bakery and coffeehouse with nine neighborhood locations in the Spokane area, since 1992.

What’s Brewing (coffee, tea, food)
• All baked goods made by scratch with only wholesome ingredients
• Wide selection of delicious food choices
• Good tea selection and specialty drinks

The Grind (what I would change)
• More accessible Wi-Fi (I couldn’t get on during my second visit, perhaps because of a an over-protective firewall?)

Percolation Factor (the activity/environment/energy/service)
• Lots of activity from loyal, local patrons.

The Grounds (location)
1325 W. 1st Ave.
Spokane, WA
509-747-1834

Tea Times (hours)
Open daily 6 a.m.-6 p.m.

Yelp rating:
4 stars

…………………

I love connecting people and ideas, so I’ve been creating small villages my entire life. Really, what better places can writers and musicians find to create “village” than independent coffee/tea shops? I wrote most of my Rhythms & Muse novel in coffee/tea venues, so it seemed natural to create this blog. Whether you came here to find a new favorite hangout, or suggest a spot not yet not posted, may you find Coffee CommuniTea exactly to your taste!