​While coffee may be one of the most popular drinks known to humankind, still, millions of Americans unwittingly drink sub-par, flat, stale, bitter and down-right nasty sludge that the big brands want us to believe is a “gourmet” product. But don't be too hard on yourself, it's not your fault. Truth in Advertising has gone the way of the Dodo bird. And, if you ask me, that sludge is not “good to the last drop”!

You've taken a first step to learning about what truly good coffee is.

You may have heard that a truly good cup of specialty coffee has a lot in common with a fine Italian wine. That is true! They are rare and have exceptional tastes and aromas. They are an highly sought-after experience, which is usually why they cost a great deal more than their grocery store counterparts. But even among the highest quality specialty coffees there are surprisingly affordable options; even for those of us on a tight budget.

Populace Coffee Roasters in Downtown Bay City. They also have locations in Petoskey and Detroit. Try their fresh Columbian, with notes of lemon, cherries, and milk chocolate. It stands out because of its sweetness and silky smooth mouthfeel. If you like sweetness, I also recommend having a cup of their mellow Mexican, with notes of cane sugar, almonds, and lemon. Similar to Fireside Coffee Company, a portion of the proceeds from their special edition coffees are donated to important local causes. ​

A Midland-based coffee company’s big move this year was about more than claiming new space for a growing business. Now, it’s serving fresh coffee daily out of its new retail café.

Creation Coffee is a four-and-a-half years old wholesale and subscription coffee company located in Midland, Michigan. Jacob Spence and Ben Marsh, founders and co-owners of Creation Coffee, met at Northwood University in 2010 and started roasting coffee to help fuel their studies. ​

There is a new, locally owned coffee shop in Downtown Clawson, Michigan. They opened in October across from White Wolf Patisserie. I relaxed my mind, filled my cup, took a sip, slowed life down, and celebrated all that is good today with the help of delicious specialty coffee.
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Our local independent coffee shops are an essential part of a community, not just a place where we go get to get a caffeine fix. Trevor and Miranda Graham, husband-and-wife, met over a cup of coffee in 2012. They quickly took their love for coffee to the next level by roasting and selling their own beans.

Despite our current pandemic, they have opened their own, must-visit shop with a coffee roaster imported from Turkey. Quality pastries are delivered to the shop day-to-day via Cannelle, a French Patisserie in Downtown Detroit, owned by Chef Matt Knio. Espresso drinks are made with local dairy from Guernsey’s of Northville.

The Graham’s center their independent business on incredible customer service and fresh coffee beans which are available by the bag and wholesale. The cozy 800-square-foot space gives off a very modern and sleek vibe. A smoothly designed walk-up window is also available during business hours for customers who want to stay outside and order. I went inside to order.​​

There is no question in my mind, the seriousness of our current situation can not be understated. The health and well being of our friends, family and our communities hang in the balance. I know that sounds bleak and dark, but it's true. I don't want to imagine a world where local coffee shops don't exist, but in many towns up and down our state are at serious risk of losing theirs.

​Whether it be coffee, wine, tea or all things culinary, Corridor Coffee’s owners, Max & Melissa, are pursuers of quality.