If you read AMPlified Culture’s posts on a regular basis, I’m sure by now it’s apparent that Laura and I aren’t into the standard cookie cutter restaurant/establishment. We want the places we frequent to have charm and personality and we’ll search high and low till we find those local gems. Well Achille’s Cafe and Coffee Shop is one of those places that we can safely say we will be adding to our list for a return visit. This place is just overflowing with character from the floor to the ceiling (literally . . . more on that below) and has such a welcoming homey feel that patrons could almost forget that they aren’t in their own living rooms relaxing.
When we recently stopped by to check out the cafe for the first time we were greeted by big comfy couches, colorful decor, tons of art and a super friendly owner. I really have to say I just loved the feel of this place! It was much larger than most of Central Florida’s local coffeehouses and was all the better for it. The extra space allowed for several sitting areas, so patrons weren’t on top of each other, and enabled the establishment to really showcase their distinctive personality. The mixed style furniture and bright walls kept the atmosphere relaxed and inviting. I also thought the artwork on the ceilings was a fun touch. I actually did a double take the first time I glanced up since I wasn’t expecting to see what I did. It’s a neat idea that ensures there is never a dull moment for your eyes!
The cafe’s menu includes coffee, beer and wine and has a small selection of homemade pastries and fresh sandwiches. Our appetizer with mozzarella, tomato and pesto was delish! We were also thrilled to find that they had hookahs which we partook of while we blogged. Who says work and play can’t go together!
As for entertainment, the cafe has books and magazines available for reading and several televisions up which they have running in the background. On Saturday nights, which is when we went, they also utilize the TV’s for their weekly movie night. It was so cute to see that several families were relaxing together with their popcorn in hand, provided by Achilles himself, and enjoying the movie. The cafe also has free wine tastings on Friday nights from 6pm-12am.
Before we left we had the opportunity to quickly chat with the owner to tell him how much we loved the place. After speaking with him it was clear his business was near and dear to his heart. He let us know that he had worked on every aspect of the space himself and that kind of dedication and TLC is what we think makes this establishment shine!
What’s most important to you when you choose your local coffeehouse? Is it the atmosphere or the coffee itself? Do you usually just pick up a cup of joe and head back out the door or do you like to sit and stay a while? Let us know in the comments section below!
