Let’s take a moment to talk about something I love: coffee.

Although I say I’m not a junkie, that I could technically live without it, I also own a t-shirt that proclaims “Death Before Decaf,” and another that reads “It’s 7 AM Somewhere.” Java is my jam. I’m not a total snob about it, mostly because I’m not wealthy enough to decide whether I want to consume beans that have been pooped out of a lemur’s exotic butthole on a regular basis, but also because I am a fan of convenience, and I like to brew my coffee in a 4-cup Mr. Coffee drip machine in the comfort of my own home. (For the record, I also own an Aeropress, a moka pot, and a French press. I do have some pretensions.)

HOWEVER.

When I do go out for coffee, I consider it a treat. I don’t want ordinary, and I don’t want beans that have been burnt. Therefore, the local coffee shop is one that must be discovered and then savored, just like a good latté.

So far, the only local joint I’ve had occasion to try has been Temple Coffee Roasters. Based on their many rave reviews, I’m not sure I even need to look any further. But just in case I need an option closer to home, here’s my To Do List:

• 18 Grams Coffee & Tea: 9677 E. Stockton Blvd. (Elk Grove)
• Broadway Coffee: 3200 Broadway
• Identity Coffees: 1430 28th St.
• Naked Coffee Roasting (come on, the name says it all!): 3527 Broadway
• Rosested: 5901 Broadway & 59th Alley

Coffee is life. Life is better with coffee. Thus ends my pontificating on percolation. Peace.