The Enigmatic Monks’ Booth: A Unique Find at Janey’s

Don Senneville and Jim White

Janey’s Coffee Shop and Bodega serves as a gathering spot for those seeking a caffeinated retreat. The cozy booth that fits two is not just a place for coffee; it’s a hub of skilled baristas crafting flat whites and delicious pastries, all set against a soundtrack of Queen and Spirit in the Sky. It was a moment of good vibes and rich coffee as the team departed from the Monks Booth, ready for their next adventure.

The pilgrimage continued at the Wagon Wheel Cafe. Here, they savored local cowperson coffee, toasted white bread, and heartfelt advice from staff. Their journey then led them to the Divine Bakery, aptly named for its outstanding espresso and delightful pistachio macaron, which added clarity to their quest.

The Indian Village offered another layer of local culture, where Bart and his team have defined the culinary landscape since 1972. Known for their historical insight and unmatched chicken chimichangas, they also enjoyed a quick Mexican Coke before heading to the tranquil Seed Cafe at Civana in Carefree, where familiarity and comfort awaited.

At the Seed Cafe, reminiscent of a quaint candy store, they indulged in chia seed date balls and refilled their water bottles with “naturally brilliant water” before calling it a day. They felt the pull of Happy Hour as they contemplated their next moves.

Meanwhile, news came of Ella, the barista who returned from The British Isles to the Village Coffee Shop and Creperie. Having reestablished herself, her English accent is noted alongside a preference for tea and, intriguingly, a small tattoo of The David. A follow-up on her evolving connection to the community is anticipated.

In a separate discussion, an opinion writer raised concerns over Starbucks’ extensive menu, suggesting the chaos may hinder service quality. Don recounted an iced latte from a local shop (not Starbucks) that left him pondering sugar’s impact. Jim, skeptical of iced coffee’s authenticity, likened it to symbols of status, and expressed a desire to escape the allure of trendy cafes by visiting the lake or Raven’s View in Tonto Hills.

Locals shared experiences from the Forêt Cafe in Flagstaff, sparking laughs and discussions about the area’s hidden treasures. Additionally, recommendations for the Seed Cafe at Civana continue to flow in, with curiosity surrounding Little Snitch, a location they’ve yet to visit.

As always, they encourage readers to share thoughts and recommendations with The CUP at [email protected]