Introduction
Welcome to the first installment of A Cup of Happiness: Exploring Houston’s Coffee Scene, where we dive into the local spots that define Houston’s rich coffee culture.
In this debut article, we spotlight two distinct but equally cherished cafes: Cavo Coffee, known for its artisan brews and modern vibe, and Long Coffee, a local favorite offering a delicious taste of Vietnam in every cup.
Both of these cafes bring something special to the table, creating perfect destinations for coffee lovers across the city.
Cavo Coffee: A Local Gem Crafting Quality Brews in Houston
In a city as diverse as Houston, finding a coffee shop that stands out can be a challenge, but Cavo Coffee sets itself apart with its commitment to excellence and sustainability.
Located in the heart of the community, Cavo Coffee has become a favorite for coffee lovers seeking more than just a caffeine fix. With their own roasting company, Cleo Roasting Co., at the helm, Cavo offers an experience that prioritizes flavor, sustainability, and local connections.
Crafting the Perfect Cup
At Cavo Coffee, every cup begins with the beans, and their in-house roasting company, Cleo Roasting Co., ensures the quality of those beans. From the moment you walk into Cavo, you’re met with the rich aroma of their house blend “Brindle,” a fruity yet subtle brew with delicate notes of chocolate.
For those who prefer a more robust cup, Cleo’s “Fawn Espresso Blend” delivers a rich, chocolatey flavor with just a hint of berry sweetness, perfect for cutting through milk-based drinks or shining on its own as a shot of espresso.
But Cavo Coffee doesn’t stop at drip or espresso; their selection of slow brew options, such as the Aeropress, V60, and Siphon, offer coffee enthusiasts a more customized experience, each method drawing out unique flavors from their expertly roasted beans. It’s a level of craftsmanship rarely seen in today’s fast-paced coffee scene.
More Than Just Coffee
For those who want to explore beyond coffee, Cavo has an array of other delicious beverages to suit any palate. Their menu includes a selection of loose-leaf teas, iced teas, and a variety of “Not Coffee” options, such as their popular Spicy Chai Latte and Matcha Latte.
The chai drinks, available in sweet or spicy varieties, offer a rich blend of spices and creamy textures, while their Matcha Latte brings the earthy, invigorating taste of finely powdered green tea.
An Extra Shot of Flavor
To top it all off, Cavo offers a selection of house-made syrups—including vanilla, caramel, and mocha—that add a personal touch to every drink. Paired with alternative milk options like almond, oat, and coconut, Cavo Coffee ensures every drink is tailored to your taste and dietary preferences.
Supporting Local, From Beans to Food
Cavo Coffee’s dedication to quality extends beyond the coffee cup. Their kitchen menu is thoughtfully curated, using fresh ingredients sourced from local vendors.
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee or sitting down for a light bite, you can trust that each item on the menu is crafted with the same attention to detail that goes into their brews.
Uncompromising Vision
This focus on sustainability and local partnerships also shines through Cleo Roasting Co.’s mission. Located next door to Cavo’s second location in West University, Cleo Roasting Co. serves as both a roastery and a coffee lab, giving customers a glimpse into the roasting process through large glass windows.
Cleo Roasting prioritizes fair trade practices, ensuring that the farmers behind their beans are paid fairly for their labor, while also emphasizing ecological conscientiousness. In line with their sustainability goals, Cleo Roasting packages its retail bottles in recyclable glass that customers can trade in at either of Cavo’s coffee shops for discounts on future purchases.
A Coffee Experience Rooted in Community
Beyond its stellar coffee and food, Cavo Coffee is deeply connected to the Houston community. Their commitment to fostering relationships with local vendors and their global coffee family speaks volumes about their dedication to the art of coffee and to those who make it possible.
This sense of community is felt in every cup brewed at Cavo, from the baristas’ friendly smiles to the care that goes into selecting and roasting their beans.
For those interested in taking a piece of Cavo home, Cleo Roasting Co. offers a range of retail coffee options online and in-store, making it easy for coffee enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite blends from the comfort of their own home.
Final Sip
Cavo Coffee is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a place where quality, community, and sustainability meet.
With their focus on fresh, locally roasted beans, expertly brewed beverages, and strong ties to the local Houston community, Cavo Coffee provides an elevated coffee experience that’s second to none.
Long Coffee: A Taste of Vietnam in Houston’s Coffee Scene
Long Coffee, a staple in Houston’s vibrant coffee culture since 1983, offers more than just expertly brewed beverages—it’s a place where the warmth of community and the flavors of Vietnam come to life.
With a mission to serve the highest quality Vietnamese coffee, Long Coffee has grown into a beloved spot where customers can unwind, socialize, or simply enjoy a moment of calm amid the hustle and bustle of daily life.
A Tradition of Craftsmanship
At Long Coffee, crafting a perfect cup of coffee is not just a task; it’s an art. The team is trained to handcraft beverages with precision, ensuring each cup is brewed to perfection.
From the time-tested Vietnamese classic Café Sua Da, an iced coffee sweetened with condensed milk, to innovative takes like the Royal Artichoke, a refreshing herbal tea with assorted jellies and longan, each beverage reflects the passion and skill of Long Coffee’s baristas.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional espresso-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, or prefer a unique twist with their matcha green tea latte, Long Coffee’s menu has something to suit every palate.
More Than Just Coffee
Long Coffee’s menu goes beyond coffee and tea. If you’re in the mood for a snack or a full meal, their offerings include savory options like crispy fried popcorn chicken, seasoned fries, and even pasta dishes.
Pastry lovers will delight in choices such as the buttery, flaky almond croissant, the savory ham & cheese croissant, or the indulgent éclair filled with rich cream and topped with chocolate icing.
For a heartier bite, try the pate chaud, a savory puff pastry filled with meat that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee.
A Wide Range of Iced and Frozen Drinks
For those who like something to cool down with, Long Coffee has you covered! The Royal Milk Tea and Jasmine Milk Tea offer a creamy, refreshing take on traditional tea, while the Thai Iced Tea delivers a sweet and bold flavor topped with half and half.
For fruit lovers, options like the Tropical Fruit Passion and the Volcano Blast combine the sweetness of fresh fruit with an icy blend that’s perfect for Houston’s warm climate.
Frozen drinks are another area where Long Coffee shines. The Matcha Red Bean blends premium matcha with milk and red bean for a deliciously creamy treat, while the adventurous Avocado Go-Go offers a smooth, slightly sweet drink made with ripe avocado and condensed milk—a true Vietnamese favorite.
Cozy Atmosphere, Inside and Out
Step inside Long Coffee, and you’ll be greeted by a warm, welcoming environment that feels like a second home.
On sunny days, the outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy your favorite drink, while on cooler or rainy days, the indoor café offers cozy seating, free Wi-Fi, and ample outlets for those looking to work or study.
It’s the ideal setting to meet friends, catch up on emails, or simply watch the world go by.
A Local Favorite for Nearly Four Decades
With nearly 40 years in the coffee business, Long Coffee has established itself as a go-to spot for coffee lovers in Houston. But it’s not just the quality of their drinks that keeps customers coming back—it’s the sense of community.
Whether you’re stopping in for a quick cup of coffee before work, enjoying a relaxed lunch, or spending the afternoon with friends, Long Coffee offers a welcoming space where good coffee and good company go hand in hand.
A Houston Staple for Years
Long Coffee has been a cornerstone of Houston’s coffee scene for decades, offering a unique blend of Vietnamese tradition and modern coffee culture.
From their handcrafted beverages and savory pastries to their welcoming atmosphere, Long Coffee is a place where a coffee aficionado or just someone in search of a cozy spot to relax can find exactly what they want!
Conclusion
Whether you’re drawn to the innovation and craft at Cavo Coffee or the warm, homestyle feel of Long Coffee, Houston’s coffee scene offers endless options for every type of coffee enthusiast.
These two standout cafes are just the beginning of our journey to explore the best coffee spots the city has to offer. Stay tuned as we continue to uncover more hidden gems in A Cup of Happiness: Exploring Houston’s Coffee Scene.
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