Welcome in! There’re two things we at Beanventurers love (three, if you count each other): drinking coffee, and doing good. It’s why we visit coffee shops, why we recycle, why we volunteer, and why we write this blog! So, naturally, when we hear of a coffee shop whose literal motto is to “Drink Coffee. Do Good”, we had to check it out. We’re, of course, talking about Compass located in downtown Akron. So, grab your favorite mug, and slow down to speed up with us as we talk about this successful social enterprise!
Compass is located in the Well CDC, and immediately feels very open and spacious. That, mixed with its dark grays and modern vibe, help create a warm atmosphere. Its open floor concept helps create different areas for customers to stay/work/socialize, based on their intended purpose. There are couch clusters that allow for intimate, cozy seating, while the large and small work space tables are perfect for study or group hangouts. Last, but certainly not least, the space is spread out enough that a couple could comfortably sit and talk here. Case in point: it was a perfect spot for us to talk through and go through our wedding planning checklist!
We went on a weekday morning and were happy to find a good amount of people there (always a plus with coffee shops). Some who were enjoying breakfast and coffee with friends, and others focused on work or the book they brought with them to enjoy. The noise level was just right to get lost in your own conversation without worrying about eavesdroppers!
Apart from the essential espresso items (i.e., macchiato, cortado, cappuccino, etc.), Compass features specialty and seasonal beverages. Their unique pleasure, however, has to be their latte flight. Four different lattes, artfully prepared to help you find your next favorite drink! They also have an assortment of freshly made pastries as well as a variety of either breakfast or lunch sandwiches to choose from.
Is there a mug alert? Yes! The mugs were a lovely blue color, which matched the overall aesthetic. Kali, ever the latte girl, got the latte flight featuring vanilla, lavender, honey, and pumpkin flavors. While the lattes leaned more on the sweet side, she enjoyed the variety of flavors and can’t wait to try the pumpkin again. Of course, she might be biased by her pumpkin love! Jason, ever the snob, got his usual cortado. He has to say, the shot was pulled well! There were subtle hints of sour with just the right amount of bitter to balance it out. Though the milk tasted good, he usually likes more microbubbles and different texturing.
Compass truly is a shop on a mission. They set out to improve the local community, not just serve it. This is why they have a conference room you can reserve, as well as reserve the entire space after hours to host events such as networking, parties, and birthdays. The crown jewel, though, has to be the bookstore: it was so amazing to find a mini book store full of materials for children to adults, and covering a wide range of social topics. As Kali can attest, one of the best ways to empower a person is through knowledge! We can’t wait to visit Compass again, and conveniently forget our books at home. Until next time!
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