Tyler TX Facebook

Follow Donny on Twitter

Username:
Password:
  Remember Me   Forgot password?  Register
0-9  A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z  

Find or Refer a Contractor in Tyler

Mount Sylvan Coffee Shop

January 11th, 2010

This is not just a normal coffee shop experience. Usually they fall under two extremes, either something pristine and new age like Starbucks or completely opposite and decorated as a complete mess of art (my favorite, so beautiful). Yet this is something entirely new and lovely. There is no doubt of the artistic vision the owner has throughout the entire shop, expressed in the floors, furniture, items sold and service given. And yet there is no sense of dark chaos. Much rather organized delight.

Coffee Shops in Tyler Texas

Coffee Shops in Tyler Texas

It is a precious place to hang out, visit, sit and think and browse. Through the front door (street front) you will be greeted by the all the fun, creative and catchy items that due fully express the funny side of the Texas way. If you are looking for a gag/unique gift, I suggest popping in here to find one. In this room you will make all your purchases, the food and drinks are all up to par, quite tasty and worth your while. Next is a huge sitting room with old fashioned furniture, chairs, tables and benches. Hard wood floors and windows in the walls between rooms, which adds to the fun atmosphere.

This facility also has the capacity to be rented out. I myself have thrown a rather large Pride a Prejudice party involving dancing and food and crochet. The owner Denise is easy to work with and eager to help people. It sits next to the road just off of 110, it is well worth your time to check it out.

Mount Sylvan Coffee Shop also has their very own Farmers Market  on Saturdays. Call and ask when booths are open at this unique Tyler Texas coffee shop!

Great Coffee Meets Local Color

January 8th, 2010

Brady’s Coffee

309 W Rusk St
Tyler, TX 75701-1514
(903) 596-0508

While it is not my desire to turn this blog into a restaurant guide, there is a café in Tyler that more people need to know about. Located at 309 W. Rusk, Brady’s Coffee shop is hidden just off Broadway.

Brady's Coffee

Brady's Coffee

 
Owner James Brady operates the shop with the help of just a couple employees. All the coffee served is provided by local roaster and distributor “Distant Lands.” Speaking of Distant Lands they are now the official coffee manufacturer for McDonalds new espresso machines. This is a remarkable credit as McDonalds is taking on Starbucks in the coffee market. This could turn Tyler TX into a serious coffee mecca like Seattle is now.

On the outside Brady’s is a plain white building, but on walking inside the visitor is met by a miniature art gallery. Paintings and photos by local and out of town artists line the walls. Most are for sale. The art aside however Brady’s is not a boutique. Its more of a classic mom and pop business, something akin to the neighborhood pub where regulars meet to debate religion and politics.

The Irish flag which hangs opposite the American, hints at Brady’s Irish Catholic roots. Theology books are stacked around the register & religious icons hang behind the bar. The owner is certainly not shy about his faith and often argues its merits good naturedly with his regular patrons.

In a town full of chain restaurants and corporate coffee shops, its refreshing to have some spots of local color. The coffee is great, the wifi free and the conversation amusing. So if you’re looking for a great cup of Joe and an escape from the heat outside, why not support a great Tyler business and keep a few more dollars here at home?