Michael Beauregard
Google
GrindTime Coffee is one of the East Valley's local coffee shops. Tucked in the corner of Warner and McQueen, GrindTime's atmosphere was welcoming and the barista was certainly friendly.
I ordered my usual, a cappuccino in a mug, a bit dry, whole milk. While at times I stray, today I held to my convictions. To liven the affair I added a cortado, which I also have a relationship with, and a "Chagachino." I can't be certain if I have the spelling correct on the later of the two.
Firstly, GrindTime's presentation was on point. When ordering a cortado, the palate cleanser is a bit of distinction I always value. Nicely done. If the critique was limited to the presentation, GrindTime would have 5 starts and high praise. Regrettably, this is where the accolades come to a not so bitter end.
The coffee itself I found to be mellow, with overarching expressions of earth. Not bitter, which is good, but the earthy notes reflected the roasting more than any organic nature of the coffee. To be honest, I didn't enquire where the beans were sourced. I did ask about the roasting, which GrindTime does in house at a separate location.
My cappuccino, although served with care, lacked the impact of fat and foam necessary to harmonize with the espresso. I do recall asking for "whole milk", but the finish product drank more like a 2% or skim. The nature of the roast and the addition of the froth created an overall cappuccino that lacked substance. Doubling down, the cortado I would say was similar in its delivery. All of which left me quite disappointed.
By contrast, the Chagachino was surprisingly enjoyable. A mix of organic sweeteners, including monk fruit, mushroom, and others added delights, the Chagachino didn't resemble the overly sugar'd drinks that are so common at coffee shops today. Rather, it was quite drinkable for those who are like minded in our enjoyment of the coffee over the sweet.
To summarize, GrindTime offers a great deal of potential, but it has a way's to go in terms of finding a recipe that hits home. If you are nearby, do try that Chagachino and post your thoughts.
Enjoy.