A year ago it was unimaginable that Saratoga Springs needed another downtown coffee shop.  That’s about the time Saratoga Coffee Traders took space and began renovations at 447 Broadway.

Fortunately for me and Saratoga, owners Mike and Jon have a lot more vision and imagination than I do.  Saratoga Coffee Traders is an undeniable hit and a welcome addition to our town. 

I must admit my first visits there were in large part because it was empty! Nothing like avoiding the crowds of Starbucks or Uncommon Grounds when all you want is a quiet, anonymous cup of coffee and a paper.  But quickly this place has become my go to coffee shop and its catching on with others too.  Here are the 6 reasons I go:

Reason 1—the papers! Who doesn’t enjoy the guilty pleasure of the NY Post headlines?  In addition to standard fare NY Times, TU and The Saratogian these guys have the Post, The Boston Globe, The NY Daily News…..  For me its everything I want to read but don’t want to subscribe to. 

Reason 2—The art.  Rumara Jewett is an incredibly talented artist whose paintings adorn the walls.  This summer she had a terrific display of jockey paintings.  Currently there are paintings of local architecture.  Rumara is a really talented artist with a great future. ( I understand a certain local bank president even commissioned her for a painting of his N. Broadway home.)   Its worth stopping in just to enjoy the art. 

Reason 3—Dueling tip jars.  Tip for the reason you believe in.  Today’s options were to help pay off traffic tickets & student loans or fund a vacation.   

Reason 4—The candy store.  Old fashioned penny candy in the back. It’s a real throwback. 

Reason 5—Organic, Fair trade everything—not just the coffee and teas—even the milk and ice cream is produced locally and organically. 

Reason 6—The people.  Mike and Jon are great as are all the people behind the counter.  Lately the place has been attracting its share of local celebs too.   Award winning author Jennifer Armstrong is a frequent customer as is Charles Waitt of Adirondack Trust.  Recently Ed Mitzen, CEO of Palio Communications was seen enjoying a tea.  Mr. Mitzen had to pass two other coffee shops to get there from Palio—these guys must be on to something.

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