Introduction
In the bustling city of Houston, coffee culture is thriving, with local spots offering much more than just a caffeine fix. In this second installment of A Cup of Happiness: Exploring Houston’s Coffee Scene, we dive into two standout coffeehouses that are redefining the coffee experience—Boomtown Coffee and Siphon Coffee.
Both of these beloved establishments offer a blend of artisanal brews, locally sourced ingredients, and community-centered vibes that make them essential stops for any coffee lover.
From Boomtown’s dedication to small-batch roasting to Siphon’s innovative brewing methods, these cafés deliver more than just a cup of coffee—they offer a taste of Houston’s rich coffee culture.
Boomtown Coffee: Houston’s Local Coffee Roasting Gem
In a city that thrives on energy and innovation, Boomtown Coffee has carved out its place as a beloved small-batch specialty coffee roaster, capturing the hearts of Houstonians one cup at a time.
Founded in 2012 in Houston’s Heights neighborhood, Boomtown has grown from a humble local shop into a beacon for coffee lovers seeking something more than just a caffeine fix. Here, coffee is an experience—a boost, a comfort, a ritual.
The Spirit of Boomtown: Coffee with Purpose
What makes Boomtown stand out in the crowded coffee scene? It’s their approach: they don’t just brew coffee—they craft it with care and precision, from bean to cup. Boomtown was born from a simple dream: to serve coffee that the founders would love to drink themselves.
From sourcing high-quality beans to roasting them in-house, every step in the process reflects Boomtown’s dedication to doing things “the right way.”
The team at Boomtown understands this deeply, and they take pride in honoring the entire coffee supply chain—from the hardworking farmers growing the beans to the baristas serving up perfectly crafted drinks.
Not Your Everyday Cup of Joe
As Boomtown emphasizes, coffee is more than just a morning jolt or an afternoon pick-me-up. It’s the spark that fuels creativity, the backdrop for meaningful conversations, or the companion for a late-night study session.
At the heart of Boomtown’s philosophy is a commitment to the craft of coffee, paired with a fun and welcoming atmosphere. They don’t just want to give you a good cup of coffee—they want to lift your spirits with every sip.
A Space to Savor
Boomtown’s original location on 19th Street in the Heights has become a staple of the neighborhood since its opening. Designed to be more than just a coffee shop, it’s a place to gather, unwind, and enjoy.
Whether you’re chatting with the baristas at the bar, sinking into a cozy couch, or lounging on the dog-friendly patio, Boomtown’s Heights shop offers a welcoming environment where community and coffee collide into something incredible.
A Booming Coffee Shop Franchise
In addition to the Heights, Boomtown has expanded its reach with a second location in the bustling Understory atrium in Downtown Houston. This space combines the fast-paced energy of downtown with the same sense of hospitality that is synonymous with the name Boomtown Coffee.
Bathed in natural light and surrounded by communal spaces, the Understory location is ideal for busy professionals looking for a quick coffee fix or anyone wanting to take a moment to savor their cup.
Boomtown’s Menu: Classic and Creative
Boomtown Coffee is more than just a roastery; it’s a destination for coffee enthusiasts who appreciate both the classics and creative, custom concoctions. Whether you’re a purist or an adventurous sipper, Boomtown’s menu has something for everyone.
For those who like to keep it simple, the drip coffee, espresso, and macchiato showcase the rich, complex flavors of Boomtown’s rotating single-origin beans. These coffees aren’t just brewed; they’re prepared with precision and care, ensuring every cup tells a story of its origin.
Bold Concoctions to Expand Your Coffee Palate
If you’re in the mood for something more unique, Boomtown’s inventive drinks will surprise and delight.
Try the Crüd, their New Orleans-style coffee with cold brew, chicory, vanilla, and cream, or the Ice Capp, a perfectly shaken espresso with half and half, topped with cinnamon.
Another standout is the Johnny Cash, a bold blend of drip coffee and an espresso shot, offering a robust kick for those needing an extra boost.
New Spins on Old Classics
Boomtown also excels at crafting signature lattes with a creative twist. The Milk & Honey, a house favorite, features a latte sweetened with honey and spiced with cinnamon—comfort in a cup.
The Mayan Mocha, infused with dark chocolate, vanilla, and cayenne, is a deliciously spicy take on the classic mocha. If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, the Matcha Latte or the Chai Latte offers a perfectly balanced blend of tea and milk.
More than a Coffee Shop
At Boomtown, coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a way of building community and fostering connections. Both locations offer spaces where locals and visitors alike can sit, relax, and take in the vibrant energy around them.
The original Heights shop, with its eclectic vibe, feels like a home away from home, while the sleek and bright Downtown location brings coffee culture to the heart of Houston’s fast-paced business district.
Whether you’re looking to grab a quick cup on your way to work, find a cozy nook to study, or catch up with friends over a creative latte, Boomtown Coffee is the place to be. With every sip, you’ll taste the love, care, and craftsmanship that make Boomtown a true gem in Houston’s coffee scene.
Siphon Coffee: Montrose’s Gem for Coffee Lovers and Food Enthusiasts
Nestled in the heart of Houston’s Montrose neighborhood, Siphon Coffee is more than just your favorite coffee shop; it’s a sanctuary! With its emphasis on quality, community, and innovation, Siphon Coffee offers an experience that goes beyond the ordinary cup of joe.
Whether you’re craving a meticulously brewed beverage or a satisfying meal crafted from locally sourced ingredients, this café promises to elevate your coffeehouse experience.
Crafting Coffee with Precision: The Siphon Method
At the core of Siphon Coffee’s identity is its namesake brewing method—the siphon technique. This method, a rarity in the coffee world, uses halogen burners to create a precise, flavorful cup that highlights the intricate tasting notes of the beans.
It’s a ritual as much as it is a brewing technique, providing coffee drinkers with a cup that is not only satisfying but also thoughtfully crafted. This unique brewing process sets Siphon Coffee apart from the crowded coffee scene in Houston and ensures that every sip delivers depth, complexity, and character.
Variety to Spice Your Life
Siphon Coffee’s dedication to excellence doesn’t end with their signature brew. The café also offers a wide variety of espresso-based drinks, like macchiatos and cappuccinos.
For those looking to try something new, the Barista Choice drink is a fun option, where the barista crafts a custom beverage based on your preferences.
Find New Favorites
Inventive concoctions like the Cereal Milk Latte, which features the nostalgic flavors of Cinnamon Toast Crunch, specialty beverages like the Golden Milk Latte, made with turmeric and ginger, and the antioxidant-rich Beetroot Cacao Latte ensure that you will always have something new and incredible to try with each visit.
A Drink for Every Palate
Alongside its expertly crafted coffee and unique concoctions, the café serves a wide selection of teas, including options like Earl Grey, jasmine, and the refreshing hibiscus mint.
They even offer nitro tea, a unique take on traditional tea that provides a smoother, creamier texture.
Beyond the Cup: A Thoughtful Menu Rooted in Local Sourcing
While coffee may be the star, Siphon Coffee takes equal pride in its kitchen offerings. The café works with local suppliers to ensure that its food is as carefully curated as its beverages. Eggs come from pasture-raised hens, and meats are sourced from sustainable farms.
Whether you’re indulging in their house-made chorizo, made from all-natural Duroc pork, or enjoying a sandwich crafted with locally raised black angus beef from 44 Ranch Farms, the quality of ingredients speaks volumes about Siphon Coffee’s commitment to supporting local farmers and delivering fresh, wholesome meals.
A Few of Our Favorites
Some standout menu items include their Argentine-style empanadas, served with chimichurri, and their toasted croissant sandwiches with turkey and Swiss. For a lighter option, the Greek yogurt parfait, layered with fresh fruit, local honey, and house-made granola, offers a refreshing start to your day.
If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss their house-made pastries like the indulgent chocolate chip cookie or the flavorful banana bread with orange cream cheese.
A Haven for All
Siphon Coffee offers an inviting and spacious environment, making it an ideal spot for solo coffee sippers, study sessions, or group meet-ups.
The café’s relaxed atmosphere and variety of seating options, both indoors and on the outdoor patio, create the perfect setting to enjoy a cup of coffee or a full meal.
For Work and Play
The ambiance is conducive to working, studying, or simply hanging out with friends, and it’s not uncommon to see people with laptops, deep in concentration, while others enjoy lively conversations over a cup of their favorite brew.
Siphon Coffee also plays host to local bands, poetry readings, and other cultural events, making it not just a café, but a vibrant hub for creativity and connection in the Montrose neighborhood.
Community-Centered Excellence
Siphon Coffee is a standout in Houston’s vibrant coffee scene, offering an experience that blends exceptional coffee, locally sourced food, and a strong sense of community.
Whether you’re in Montrose for a leisurely weekend or in need of a quiet spot to work during the week, stop by Siphon Coffee for a one-of-a-kind coffee experience that celebrates both craftsmanship and local flavor.
Conclusion
Whether you’re drawn to the community-driven ethos of Boomtown Coffee or the innovative brewing methods and carefully sourced ingredients at Siphon Coffee, these cafés are proof that Houston’s coffee scene is as diverse as it is delicious.
Join us next time when we continue our journey through the Houston’s ever-evolving coffee landscape in the next installment of A Cup of Happiness.
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