When you’re visiting Flagstaff, Arizona where do you go for coffee? It’s an important question, and I’ll admit there aren’t many occasions where I find myself in Flagstaff (at least until recently). I’m hoping to provide some more in-depth thoughts on the coffee scene in and around Flagstaff in the coming years. But for now, want to point you to Macy’s European Coffeehouse. Macy’s was founded in 1980, it is the oldest coffee house in the state, and a popular coffee house in Flagstaff. Macy’s was named after the founder, Tim Macy. On a recent trip with family up north, we stopped in at Macy’s to get some coffee. I could have sworn I saw George Takei standing at the entrance, but none of my family members saw the resemblance. Macy’s was recently named in a Zagat article from February 2013 as ” an unexpectedly unique, local experience.” The article, titled The United States of Caffeine: 50 States, 50 Must-Try Coffee Shops, gathered both praise and criticism from Arizona readers. One cool aspect to that Zagat article is the comments. One in particular from an Anonymous reader said: “I guess the list might be great for those looking for a great coffee shop experience, but I think that having a great coffee shop experience does not always equate to the absolute best coffee experience.” Another reader wrote: “Macy’s really? That would be one of my last choices and even then I might skip it.” Besides the massive coffee menu, you can also order from a vast selection of sandwiches, smoothies, and salads. The options are almost endless. Above: A photo from I presume the 1980s when Macy’s opened. I’m not sure why it is called a “European Coffeehouse,” but the interior is cool and Macy’s wins points for the oldest coffee shop, and small town charm. There’s plenty of seating, free WiFi, and patio seating that’s comfortable. Parking was easy on the street around the corner. A bag of Sumatra Madheling roasted by Macy’s. An iced mocha. My cappuccino from Macy’s – lots of foam, not the greatest. The coffee roaster on premises. According to Macy’s, they employ a “coffee scout” that finds and sources coffee beans. Their web site says they “pay better than fair-trade prices, directly to the farmer.” Macy’s has been voted “Best of Flag” by AZ Daily Sun readers in 2010 and 2011. Macy’s European Coffeehouse 14 Beaver St. Flagstaff, AZ 86001 Phone: (928) 774-2243 Twitter: @macyscoffee
Jeff Without poo-pooing Macy’s too much, I’d like to say that while the coffee culture up in Flag is decidedly different than in Phoenix, there are several places that serve much tastier coffee. Macy’s only serves Americanos. Won’t find a single-serve brewer; the result is something neither remotely fruity nor sweet. Macy’s is all about food, atmosphere and choice. Their food and beverage menu is extensive, and if you’ve a hankering for flavored beverage then Macy’s can provide for you. Macy’s is where you go if you haven’t had human contact because you’ve been studying too much, and you want to see someone you know. Conversation, ideas, and creativity abound at the crowded tables, but the coffee leaves a lot to be desired. If you want decent-to-good coffee, you could turn to Bookmans (serving Firecreek) or Flag Coffee (my most recent cup was from Barefoot Coffee). Cafe Rendezvous serves Intelligentsia, though again, they don’t prepare any sort of drip coffee–strictly americanos. Also, Firecreek is opening (soon, maybe?) a location off of route 66 downtown. For what it’s worth there’s several “don’t bother” shops in town. Kickstand. Late For the Train. Wicked AZ. I apologize for the lack of nuance in my assessment. I could drone on for hours. 0 Reply March 11, 2013
Jeff In addition, there is a local roaster called Sky Island (no shop) that sells very nice beans. Can pick it up at the CSA or New Frontiers. 0 Reply March 11, 2013
