Local Favorites: Part 2

When it comes to locally-owned coffee shops in the metro area, you really have two choices: old-school java shops and newer, hipster-infused coffee roasters. Here are some of the best.

Elemental Coffee Roasters

Located at Hudson and 8th Street in midtown Oklahoma City, Elemental really started the new wave of OKC coffee roasting. After selling their coffee locally and online for a few years, Elemental opened up a coffee shop two years ago. If you think you accidentally stumbled on an Apple store when you walk in, you're not alone. The decor is stark white and minimalistic but it doesn't detract from the inviting warmth radiating from the espresso machine.

Menu Highlights

Americano - Nothing too fancy here, just espresso and hot water.  If you like black coffee, it doesn't get much better than this.

Cafe Latte - Let me preface this by being completely honest -- I don't like lattes. If I'm going to drink coffee, then I'll drink some damn coffee. That being said, this isn't bad. The little leafy thing on top is a nice touch for sure.

Cold Brew Coffee - Warning: This is for people who seriously need caffeine. Cold brew is an iced coffee that's brewed overnight.


Coffee Slingers

Slingers has been around for five years or so and they only recently started roasting their own coffee. The shop operates on Broadway and 10th Street in Downtown Oklahoma City. In my opinion, Coffee Slingers has made great strides in the past few years to be more welcoming to customers and has become a place you would want to spend time.

Menu Highlights

French Pressed Coffee - Another plain-Jane choice on my part but I think you'll forgive me for not being more adventurous when you take my word for it. And although the roast changes weekly, I've never b

een disappointed with this tried-and-true cup.

Macchiato - If you want a Starbucks macchiato from Slingers, look elsewhere. This is a elegant little cup consisting of a shot of espresso and milk foam. The milk keeps the shot from getting bitter while complementing the caramel sweetness of the espresso. However, be aware that it's only about a five-ounce drink.

Bacon and Cheese Scone - I'm sort of cheating here because these aren't baked in-house but instead are sourced from Prairie Thunder down the street. But it's awfully convenient to be able to get a great cup of coffee and a delicious savory scone at the same place.