Valentine – Third Ward

189 N. Milwaukee St., Milwaukee

I’ve always been a fan of Valentine—they know how to make coffee—and I’d buy their coffee beans whenever convenient. I didn’t get to their cafés much, since none were in walking distance—so I was excited to see this relatively new location in the Third Ward. It’s in the spot where the Bella Caffe used to be, for years and years, until it sadly closed. That was always a place to go. I looked up my old review of Bella and it amused me that I referred to their décor as: “seaside senior citizen”—though more of an observation than a critique. I have to say, I miss that look now that it’s gone—the place has been completely remodeled as streamlined and clean as a computer chip. I guess that appeals to the younger, sockless generation—and I suppose I sound like a seaside senior just saying it. But as soon as I stepped inside, I wanted to flee, seeing this long row of uniform tables along the front wall with a single, laptop-equipped remote worker at each one. A bit of future shock, as is the world these days—on various levels. I mean, I did get the last open seat, and my espresso, with the “V” on the inside of the cup, was fine, and warmed me up. The lighting, however—inexplicably cold—which got me wondering, do people look at warm color temperature as dated—as old fogey? The cold, blue light disturbed me—I’ve been in homier morgues. That’s not true—I’ve never been in a morgue—but no doubt will be all too soon.

2.1.23