Katerbean

Katerbean

Katerbean

Coffee is a “must have” for most people. Without the lovely chemical of caffeine, many of us would have a difficult time getting up, and functioning throughout the day. So, is it the highly addictive stimulant in coffee that keeps us coming back every morning, or perhaps the familiar ritual that we feel need to repeat day after day? It’s probably a combination of both.

Everyone likes their coffee differently. Some take it black and strong, others like it with skim. Some use plenty of sugar, while others prefer artificial sweeteners. I use real cream in mine with one packet of Splenda… a bit indulgent, but life is short right?

If you’ve lived in Regent Square for any length of time, you’ve probably had a cup of java at Katerbean on Braddock Avenue. The small coffee shop has been open for 15 years, and has sustained a loyal clientele throughout that time.

When Katerbean first opened, it was a smoke-friendly environment. Patrons could have their coffee, smoke a cigarette, and read the paper. After a few years (and several complaints to the owner) it was decided that the coffee shop would be smoke-free. Not to worry, ash-trays and tables were put outside to accommodate the tobacco-friendly crowd.

If you go in the morning, you will certainly meet Jackie; she’s been the general manager at Katerbean for 11 years, and is quite the character. Her thick Boston accent and quirky sense of humor will keep you entertained during your visit. “We’re a fairly mellow crown here at Katerbean,” Jackie said.

One of the highlights of this small coffee shop are the carrot cake muffins made by Jackie. These huge, deliciously moist muffins are topped with a tart and luscious cream cheese frosting. A carrot-cake muffin and cappuccino will surely fill your belly, and put a smile on your face.

Besides serving regular coffee, Katerbean also offers a wide selection of coffee-specialty drinks: cappuccinos, machiados, espresso, americanas, hot chocolate and homemade flavored Italian sodas are available. You can also get delicious frozen coffee drinks during the summer to help keep you cool. Katerbean’s coffee distributor, Iron City Roaster (a subsidiary of Coffee Tree Roasters) is a local company, and specializes in free-trade in-house roasted coffees with bold flavors. If you’re not in the mood for coffee, you can also get fruit juices, and a wide selection of herbal and regular caffeinated teas.

Besides coffee, Katerbean serves a wide assortment of food. If you come early in the morning, you can enjoy a fresh bagel with cream cheese, delicious pastries, and biscotti. You can even have a bowl of cereal if that’s what you’re in the mood for.
Katerbean is a nice neighborhood coffee shop with a wide selection of coffees, teas and food. If you decide to enjoy some coffee inside, make sure to sit at a table in front of large windows so you can people watch during your lunch hour. If you live in the neighborhood, and haven’t visited Katerbean yet, stop in for a hot cup of joe.

Chef Chuck Kerber

cooksandeats.com

chuck@cooksandeats.com