Miss Priss Dishes Generoasta Do good....Have fun....Drink Coffee! With a mission statement like that, what’s not to love about this place?! I had the pleasure of popping into Generoasta for lunch and a chat with President, Eric Ravotti, in order to learn about this unique business venture. Situated in Warrendale Village, this coffeehouse and cafe has a passion to “DO GOOD” by supporting local charities and their inspiring missions. The corporation was formed when ten families from our community came together to start a business focused on fundraising first, profits to follow. The idea of a “more personal” coffeehouse with strong ties to the community blossomed into a beautiful, polished-rustic environment that’s both inviting and practical for people looking for a great place to meet, eat, work or simply relax. With a name like Miss Priss, it’s likely no secret that I like pretty things. I like clean things. I like to feel as though perfection is within reach. At Generoasta, my personal proclivity for pretty, clean and perfect seemed easily fulfilled! As I walked in, I immediately sensed sustainability (the buzz word of the day) was in full, genuine effect. The walls were created from a 200 year-old barn shipped in from Wisconsin, while the floors, furniture and even the dishes have a sleek, natural wood look, creating that feeling of connection with something.....maybe the earth, perhaps the community, possibly the people staring at their laptops. And, so, when Eric shared with me his vision for creating a place where visitors could connect with one another while supporting the community through financial outreach, coffee merely the conduit, it totally made sense. At the center of the room stands a large, custom-made community table, perfect for strangers to strike up a conversation or for small groups of up to 10 to conduct an informal meeting. In fact, a reservation list is available for those who would like to make plans ahead of time. A perfectly round fire-pit table with comfy chairs is also another seating option, as well as several leather loungers or three quaint booths for times when a bit more privacy is desired. An additional practical perk are the working stations equipped with multiple outlets for those frequent times when your iPhone is down to 3% battery life (didn’t I just charge this thing about two hours ago???). Unlike traditional coffeehouses, where food is generally an afterthought, the folks at Generoasta have made it a priority to offer fresh, mostly organic soups, salads and sandwiches. I opted for The Derby Salad during my first visit and was quite impressed with its size and freshness of the ingredients. Produce from local purveyors are always the focus, giving this place a nice farm-to-fork appeal. Since that first visit, I returned a second time in order to try a sandwich that caught my eye on the chalkboard, one with roasted vegetables and basil pesto spread served grilled panini style. It did not disappoint! Hearty breakfast options are also available daily, and food is served until 7pm Monday through Saturday. With respect for the variety of unique diets and food allergies, it’s also nice to know that Gluten-Free and Peanut-Free options are also available. Virtually everything on the menu is made-to-order, so most items can be customized according to ingredients on-hand. A slight variety of pastries, muffins, cupcakes and other sweets are also at your fingertips. Along with my food, I was given a “charity token” in order that I might cast a vote for one of three local organizations. Animal Friends, Mars Home for Youth and North Hills Community Outreach are currently the featured charities, however, three new groups will be selected every six months. Donations are made to each charity based on the number of tokens cast, so it was nice to feel as though I was somehow ‘paying it forward’ simply by choosing Generoasta for lunch as opposed to another spot. Furniture, food and fundraising aside, the feature that will most likely have repeat guests screaming for more are the coffee options. Eric specifically stated that “Coffee-Making Experts” were recruited to artistically make the most of the handmade espresso machine from Italy, and after having MixMaster David prepare a few variations for me, I’m convinced. In addition to Nicholas proprietary blends (Usual, Unusual and Red Belt Roast), Generoasta also roasts in-house to provide, according to Eric, “an ultra, high-quality cup of regular coffee” referred to as the “Trifecta.” I sampled the El Salvador version and was totally impressed by the strong yet smooth and balanced flavor, unlike the burnt, metallic quality reminiscent of another coffee giant’s brew. During both visits David has treated me to one of his specialties not currently found on the menu, the Salty Caramel Mocha Javalanche. He claims it may be up on the board soon, and I’m thinking it needs to be affectionately labeled “Miss Priss’ Pick,” although I can envision certain letters getting twisted when calling that out at the counter which would undoubtedly lead to awkward stares. (Remind me sometime to tell you the story of when The Hubs demonstrated a serious Freudian slip while ordering ‘Red Pepper Pasta’ from a cute blonde waitress!) There are endless other tiny details I could share about this hip, new location, but I think it best for everyone to go and personally explore. Generoasta is a perfect choice for a business meeting over coffee, a ladies’ lunch or even a PTO meeting. If for no other reason, pop in for a Javalanche and to cast your charitable vote. Oh, and tell them Miss Priss sent you!
Posted on: Thu, 01 Aug 2013 13:55:27 +0000