Cuppa Cuppa: Roots Cafe

There are few things more satisfying than having a morning cuppa cuppa. Of course, that cuppa cuppa can be coffee, tea, or whatever beverage you prefer to get your day started. In this series, a cuppa cuppa doesn’t only refer to the beverage. It’s the conversation, the place you’re at, and the atmosphere. Cuppa cuppas are never rushed. We’re not limited to cafes. So follow us as we enjoy the neighborhood, our neighbors, background chatter, and a cuppa cuppa.

The age-old question was causing a debate. The debate wasn’t heated; it was the tone of convivial exchanges by people who see each other on a daily basis.

The toilet paper facing out or facing in conversation came up because — well, you had a choice as to what tip jar you’d use in order to weigh in on the debate. (Not to impose my beliefs…but, come on… it has to be facing out!)

And in excellent deadpan, a lady came up to order a coffee and stated: “I’m just happy there’s toilet paper at all.”

Roots Cafe (639 5th Avenue at 18th Street) is warm and inviting. Nashville-born co-owner Amanda Neill is the one who sets the tone. Neill seems to know everyone — and it’s not surprising why. Throughout 90 minutes of watching folks come in and out of the cafe, it’s clear that a large percentage of them are regulars.

“I want people to be able to come in and literally be in their own living room. There’s enough stress going on outside,” says Neill. It’s one of those sterling, warm fall days, which fits perfectly with her demeanor.

The coffee brand that Roots Cafe serves was actually chosen based on the patrons’ decisions. During Hurricane Sandy, the coffee deliveries weren’t coming in. Neill decided to go with Ithaca-based Forty Weight Coffee Roasters because they were able to get coffee to the store. Neill tells us that patrons were commenting on how much they liked it. “It’s roasted light, and has a smooth style,” she says. And so they decided to switch over to Forty Weight for good.

In addition to the iced coffee ($3.75), we went with a bagel with cream cheese, tomato, and avocado ($4). It hit the spot just right. Neill told us about a couple of the more popular items on the menu. “The Roots Burrito All 3” comes with egg, cheese, tomato, avocado, and black beans with a homemade chipotle salsa ($7). The burrito was ordered quite a few times when we were there.

Neill also recommends the cheesy grits ($2.50). “I feel more Southern here,” says Neill. “This place has brought out my Southern roots.” Neill also love the Maple Butter Latte ($5) that’s perfect for the season.

In addition to coffee and food, Neill is a huge supporter of the arts. The work of local artists adorn the walls, including Anthony Mangicapra.

Athough Roots closes at 6pm, they do offer a series of evening events, including poetry, music, and theater. They offer a limited menu at night during performances.

Throughout the morning, music by Cat Stevens, The Beatles, and Bill Withers played — fitting Roots perfectly (we also heard Led Zeppelin’s “In The Evening,” which whetted our appetite for a listen to the album In Through The Out Door later on).

Roots is probably one of the best places to work on your laptop in the neighborhood. You’re never rushed, and outlets are plentiful.

The clientele may not say it to each other, but there’s definitely an unspoken understanding that being a regular here is something special.

Do you have a recommendation to have a cuppa cuppa? Email us at editor@bklyner.com.

The Rundown: Roots Cafe
Where: 639 5th Avenue at 18th Street
Phone: 615-419-7877
Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm; Saturday and Sunday, 8:00am-6:00pm
Kid Friendly? I didn’t see many toddlers running around; it just doesn’t feel like that type of place. That said, this was a weekday morning, and a lot of folks were hunkering down to work on their laptops.
Remote Workers: The outlets to plug in for your free Wifi is plentiful.
Bites Available: Coffees, pastries, and specialty meals that certainly would be great for lunch.