Slow Coffee

We have often commented that one of the many differences between Italy and the U.S. is that in America, we have slow coffee (big cups with roomy and comfortable coffee shops) and fast food (don't think I need to say more). In Italy, there is only fast coffee (they are called coffee bars because you literally stand at a bar, throw back your coffee and walk out the door) and slow food (aside from the occasional McDonald's and some pizzerias, there are no other restaurants where you can take your food to go). It has fascinated us that in a country that places such a high value on coffee, there isn't a venue to linger over it. . .

Until now! A few weeks ago, a new coffee shop opened right in the heart of campus. I am pretty sure it is British-owned, but it is like walking into Starbucks! It was obviously designed as a place for students to hang out, with lots of knooks and big, comfy chairs. Here's a picture of Ben hanging out in one:

Not only is the atmosphere great (and spacious--there are three seperate sitting rooms), but they make flavored coffee drinks! I got a mocha this morning (they call it a Creative Chocolate), and it was just pretty darn good. A regular Italian cappucino takes about four swigs to down. . . this was a Starbucks-sized tall. And you can get a cup of "American coffee" if you'd like (regular brewed coffee). Wow!

Gavin, Benjamin and I stopped in for a snack this morning. It's a good thing this place is not especially close to our apartment! It's called Itit, which in Italian is pronounced Eateat. We thought that was kind of funny. :)

So obviously our tastebuds are pretty excited about this new discovery, but even more fantastic than the fun coffee and great atmosphere is that is right in the heart of campus. Every time we've been in there, it has been packed with college students. We have been dying to find a place like this where we can just hang out with students! Without a doubt, this place is going to change the way we do ministry.

A win-win, any way you look at it. The only down side is paying 3 Euro for my Creative Coffee, instead of 1.30 for an Italian cappuccino. Again, it's a good thing we don't live closer. . .