TASTE TESTING

While I'm testing out my work possibilities I'm also performing in depth research and analysis of the Cafe food in and around Boston.  Cafe outings have always felt indulgent to me.  And ever since I had enough money of my own to feel like I could splurge on a scone or cookie or muffin and a cup of coffee, I have.  It's such a treat!  A table at a cafe, a good book, and I'm content.  In recent years biking to cafes has made these outings even better.  Since I've got more time for some of my favorite pleasures, I think this taste testing research is well worthwhile.

July 19, 2011, True Grounds Coffee House Bagel and Cream Cheese
This is not a true taste test because it's my favorite coffee shop in Somerville.  I've thoroughly tested many of the cookies, muffins, salads, wraps, and more egg sandwiches than I can count.  It is superb.

June 19, 2011, Coffee Heath Bar and Oreo Cookie Yogurt
Louie's, Somerville, MA
It's only luck that a place this good is 3/4 of a mile from my house.  Outdoor seating only with a walk up menu is my favorite type of ice cream stand. It encourages friendly chatting and lots of children dancing and skipping out front.

May 23, 2011, Oreo Cookie and Heath Bar Crunch Yogurt
Bedford Farms Ice Cream, Bedford, MA
Recall those Neil Diamond lyrics from Sweet Caroline:  "So good, so good, so good to me..."  I would have ordered the kid size had I known 2 scoops would be this big.

May 13, 2011, Oatmeal Cookie
Main Streets Cafe, Concord, MA
Dear Oatmeal Cookie, you stink. You taste like a cookie without any good ingredients. What happened?  I won't try you again.









May 9, 2011, Chocolate Chip Cookie
Main Streets Cafe, Concord, MA
It's as good as it is good-looking. This cookie was eaten in less than 2 minutes.  I had my stopwatch.

May 3, 2011, Rocky Road Cake Pop
Starbucks, Central Square, MA
Gross, gimmicky food.  Like swallowing a tablespoon of canola oil.  The only redeeming quality was the clever packaging.