My few friends who love Catalyst asked me to not reveal this location so they could keep the best kept coffee secret in Athens to themselves, but sorry friends, the world needs to know. And the world needs to go.
When searching for organic goodness here in Athens, many a hippie and health-conscious fellow will venture to Catalyst Cafe, along with Della Zone and the Village Bakery and Cafe, both located on East State Street. The tagline of this hip coffee house is Organic espresso
Village Bakery Food and fair-trade shakes and smoothies. All which are very good and delicious things.
Catalyst Cafe shares a building with Athens Real Estate Company, which just increases the interesting interior architecture. The wall facing the road is a giant window that overlooks the beautiful Hocking River. Once you step inside, you don't feel like you are in Athens anymore. You can't even see campus from wherever you sit, making this joint a great place for an escape. There is also a garden with outside seating, adding another great layer to the already enticing atmosphere. The bike path runs right by Catalyst, so walking or biking here is welcomed and encouraged.
There weren't a lot of customers when I visited this past Saturday, but all things considered, this past Saturday was Halloween and not a whole lot of people drink coffee on Halloween. Catalyst is ideal for any type of coffee meeting experience you might need to have: a quiet day of studying by yourself, a meeting with co-workers, a place to take your parents or an adorable date.
The prices at Catalyst are a little high, but that is because everything served is organic - from the coffee to the soup to the delicious pastries. The espresso drinks are great but aren't anything special or different than any other organic espresso drinks. However, the organic smoothies and shakes, which are made with Snowville gelato, are out-of-this-world good. And are completely worth the $4.95 you have to shell out to get one.
So, the cat is out of the bag. Catalyst Cafe is a complete win and might just steal hardcore Donkey lovers away. Might being the key word here. 4
Opinion
Elaine McKinley
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