Coffee Culture: Caffe Amouri

Caffe Amouri Roaster

A few weeks back the owner and namesake of Caffe Amouri contacted me about his first foray into food (well, technically drink) as a full-time-career. This venture features house-roasted coffee, and the menu includes a dozen or so espresso varietal drinks and more than 20 loose leaf teas. As Michael wrote, Caffe Amouri takes their “offerings very seriously.”

I was torn as to whether to make the trip to try this place out. I am not a coffee drinker and Caffe Amouri is located (gasp) just outside the beltway in Vienna, VA. But I work in Tysons and my coffee-loving friend S works in Vienna, so I decided last Friday to take an afternoon break from my day job to try it out.

My first impressions: we are not in Tyson’s anymore (which is a good thing in my book). The vibe of this corner, sun-filled shop is mellow. Burlap sacks of raw beans surround a larger-than-life bright yellow roaster, from which an aroma of freshly roasted beans fills the air. The walls are adorned with album covers; 80s legends like Boy George and Michael Jackson gaze upon you while you decide on your beverage.

The staff, friendly and knowledgeable, guided S towards a decaf Costa Rican blend and me toward a semi-sweet hot chocolate. S’s eyes rolled back in her head as she savored her coffee. At $5 for a French Press serving that could serve two, it is an affordable luxury.

Caffe Amouri French Press

The Belcolade Belgian hot chocolate was on par with Co Co Sala’s – rich, thick, and indulgent in a simple way that heightened the smoothness of the chocolate.  And while this one requires a drive, it is also almost half the price of Co Co Sala's ($3.55 for 16 oz of milk, semi-sweet, or dark).

Caffe Amouri Belgian Hot Chocolate

I was surprised by how much I liked Caffe Amouri – enough for a return weekend trip for B to try the coffee. The owner's passion in this endeavor is evident. If you work in the area and need a break from the over-the-top type A world that is Tyson’s, this is your answer.