Sunday, November 08, 2015

Top Ten Coffee Houses in the City of Caldwell

10. Moxie Java
-Back in the 90's and early 00's, Moxie, with its 2 stories of chill space was Caldwell's premiere coffee house. Things have changed a bit with their move to a new location a few years ago, but with convenient hours and a small chill space, Moxie is still a go-to spot for East Caldwell residents.

9. Dutch Brother's
-Now I know what you're thinking; This isn't a "Coffee House", But D.B. is open 24 hours a day. So if someone feels like a caffeine kick at 1 am on a Monday morning in January, this is their place.

8. Chukar Den
- The Chukar Den, is mainly known for its outside seating area next to Indian Creek. This outside chill area is the place to be on a clear day.  

7. Java Station
-Originally a drive through only coffee shop, Java Station's new building hosts a chill area along with a small home decor store. 

6. Jolts and Juice
-In spite of being in the middle of a strip mall, Jolts and Juice manages to maintain a top class chill space. 

5. Imelda's 
-In 2010-2012, Imelda's really pushed hard to be a City Destination coffee house. It hosted live music and had very convenient hours. However, in recent years, its focus has shifted to its food options. While Imelda's still serves coffee, (Its "Mayan Mocha" is legendary among coffee connoisseurs) Imelda's now, is better known among food connoisseurs. 


4. Gathering Grounds
-There are several Coffee Houses in the WVMC neighborhood, but Gathering Grounds attracts not just Medical Center workers. Patrons of Gathering Grounds come from all over the Caldwell area. Its chill space is not the most comfortable, but its homemade chocolate chip cookies cannot be beat. 

3. Copper Cafe
-With it's stunning views of Caldwell on top of the city's tallest building, Copper Caffe is a perfect spot to impress out of towners. Its hours of operation are not the most convenient, but it's chill space is world class. 

2. CHIcoffee
-CHIcoffee is a non-profit coffee house.  Coffee at CHIcoffee is made right and a cup of gourmet drip is only $1. It's hours of operation leave a bit to be desired, but if you want to get in on a good thing, CHIcoffee is the place to be. 

1. The Bird Stop
-With very convenient hours and multiple chill areas, The Bird Stop is what a coffee house should look like. As an added bonus, live music is a regular feature at the Bird Stop most weekend and weekday evenings. 

Sunday, November 01, 2015

Top 10 Restaurants in Caldwell, Idaho

Top 10 Restaurants in Caldwell:


10. Garbonzo's 
          One of the only restaurants to serve the Caldwell suburb of Valleyview. The atmosphere is basic, like the neighborhood surrounding this pizza destination. Garbonzo's pizzas are mostly toppings with minimal filler. 

9. Los Betos
          The atmosphere of this location is sparse, but when it's 2:30 am, it's better than the alternatives. 
          

8. Indian Creek Steakhouse
          This downtown fixture attracts rancher types from all over southern Idaho. I'm not sure if it's still on the menu, but this steakhouse knows how to prepare Rocky Mountain Oysters that are edible. 

7. Stewart's Grill
           Anyone wanting to rub shoulders with Caldwell's movers and shakers should consider being a regular Stewart's. 

6. Golden Palace
           With hours extending late into the evening, this reasonably priced restaurant is a favorite for those looking for a laid-back dining experience.   

5. West Valley Medical Center Cafeteria 
            Whether you are looking for a quick sandwich or expect a perfectly seared salmon steak prepared by a top chef, this is your place. 

4. Janitzio's 
            Convenient hours, friendly staff and homemade quality.

3. Orphan Annie's 
            Another favorite among the ranching/Country type. Popcorn is served with every meal. 

2. Bon Appetit
            It may be a bit obscure, and many are not even sure if it's open to the public, but those who know, know this is one of  the best places in Caldwell for a reasonable meal any time of the day. 

1. Copper Cafe
             Although this cafe has very limited hours, it makes up in atmosphere and view. (Perched on top of Caldwell's tallest building)