Yeast of Java

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The exotic name itself should draw a crowd of serious coffee drinkers. Far, far away one will find the island of Sumatra in the Indian Ocean. An Indonesian island–in fact, the 6th largest island in the world–produces some of the finest coffees on the planet.

Sumatra connotes intrigue, even a romantic unknown and far away place. This island is famous for producing deep, rich smooth flavored and full-bodied coffees. The complexity of the coffee is almost as intriguing as the region in which it is grown.

A taste of Sumatra is available right now on south Peoria. This little shop is proportionally dotted with tables for those who do not prefer their coffee "to go" but rather to drink there. The area is comfy and inviting, and the service is most friendly and welcoming. I've been here a few times and I'm always greeted with a smile upon entering.

I simply love coffee shops for their public, yet private dimensions. Coffee shops of times past were centers of intellectual discussion; today, maybe the high-powered discussions of years past are lacking, still coffee houses are gathering places for those who desire quiet reading time alone, or for those who prefer to chat with friends and family.

Sumatra offers an assortment of beverages and also an ample, yet modest selection of donuts, cakes and pastries. An expanded menu includes cold and hot sandwiches, panini ($3.99) and salads ($4.99).

I've been told that on every other Saturday from around 11am-2pm, an Indonesian buffet is served. Unfortunately, one Saturday I was there, it was the "off" Saturday; returning the next Saturday at 11:15am, the buffet was not to be served until around noon.

Coffee is what I came here for–the menu board is filled with varied coffee concoctions. Special Brew Coffees include Sumatra, naturally, House Blend, Columbian, Java Mocha and Kenya. Only $1.39 will get customers a good cup of coffee. Other coffee drinks displayed are Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte, and a House Latte.

From here, the menu expands to Ice Cappuccino, Ice Caramel, Mocha and Mocha Peanut Butter, Ice Spice Latte, Ice chai Latte and Italian Cream Soda. Smoothies include Strawberry Banana, Banana Berry, Strawberry Coconut and Banana Split–Tall is $2.79 and a Grande is $3.75.

My attention was drawn to the House Latte, which I was told was a regular latte but with a touch of exotic Indonesian spices (from the source, the original Spice Islands discovered by ancient mariners of famed lore), such as cardamon and possibly nutmeg, cloves and mace.

This latte was smooth, hot and had a hint of the exotic with the spices. It was a sipping coffee more than a gulping drink for me. It was perfect for this Saturday morning of leisure.

The friendly service at Sumatra and the fine coffee selection are enough to bring me back. I do want to try to Indonesian buffet next time.

Sumatra Coffee Shop, 4244 S. Peoria, 918.742.4849
Hours: MON.-SUN. 7Am-5pm