Discourse Coffee – Downtown

1020 N. Broadway, Milwaukee

This is a Discourse Coffee location on the MSOE campus, which pretty much means I can fall out of bed and be there. It’s on the ground floor of an old building and they did a good job of fixing it up and accentuating the cool old parts. It’s on odd layout, with various seating on the outer edges, quite a few comfy chairs—a good place to meet with someone. There are people with laptops, of course. I’ve got to say, I’m not against people with laptops in cafés, and I’m even all for it, but still, the atmosphere is always better when there are people without laptops, particularly couples or groups, talking. The lighting is good, and the music okay—I noticed an old Seventies stereo, turntable, and records—though I didn’t inquire if you were allowed to play them. They know how to make an espresso. Also, the description of an odd specialty drink caught my eye—called a “Lewis” something—named after a guy whose significance escaped me (even after I asked). The name got my attention because of my old cat (though he spelled his name “Louis.”) The barista said the drink is based on this Lewis’ favs—Old Fashioned Cocktail and Pizza—who can’t relate with that. I have to try it—it’s delicious—and I’ll let the mystery of its ingredients reign. I can’t say I would have thought, blindfolded, “pizza”—but what I did think was, it’s like something I might make at home. I consider that a high compliment.

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