Dogwood Coffee Co. - Calhoun Square

Aware of my quest for new and unique cafes, a friend turned me on to Dogwood Coffee Co. in Uptown's Calhoun Square. The place was newer than the fresh snow on the ground. So new, in fact, that they didn't even have a menu posted on the wall. "Strange," I thought, "How do I know what to order?" and then "It's a coffee shop, MaryEllen. You order coffee." But what I was hoping for was options. Options, please.

Coasting up to the counter, the barista offered me a double-sided paper menu. Fair trade organic coffee options dotted the menu alongside a selection of tea offerings. As much as I love coffee, a cuppa joe is probably not the best idea at 7 in the evening. Let's face it, pulling an all-nighter is a phenomenon slowly ceasing to exist in my 9-5 world.

What I was seeking was a taste of something sweet. Glowing beneath the lid of a glass cake pedestal were baked goods tempting my sweet tooth. What I landed on was called Bostok, a hefty slice of sweet brioche bread soaked in an orange flavoring. Baked and topped with a sweet almond and sugar glaze. What a treat! The perfect thing to satisfy my sugar craving.

A crunchy and sugary outer layer gives way to a soft and orange infused center sure to make your mouth happy.

As for the setting, the Dogwood is situated on a corner piece of space in Calhoun Square just across from Kitchen Window (how appropriate). Long and narrow the coffee shop offers limited seating, but with interesting perspectives. Facing picture windows overlooking Hennepin Ave, a long rustic log acts as a counter for Uptowners to grab their coffee and Bostok (or other assorted pastries!) and enjoy the bustle of people and cars that pass by. Tables and other seating make it an easy place for readers, texters or Googlers to engage in their pastimes.

The shop is strategically placed next to the Hennepin Ave Calhoun Square entrance with their coffee bar front and center, opening on to the mall space, with their seating off to the left. It's difficult (at least for me!) to pass up a coffee shop, even if I'm just passing through, so their placement is quite sensible.

Dogwood is the perfect place for a busy Uptowner to get a uniquely roasted coffee and artfully created baked piece to take with them as they peruse the shops in the mall or wrap up their shopping experience. It serves the caffeine junkies' need, but with a taste of class and convenience.

**Thanks to Maureen Schley for this recommendation!