In the ever-evolving landscape of remote work, searching for the perfect workspace is a perpetual quest. For many of us, escaping the confines of the home office and venturing into the welcoming ambiance of a local coffee shop has become a comforting ritual. But what happens when the familiarity of a Starbucks just doesn't cut it anymore? Especially during this time of year, what happens when the call of tax season threatens to disrupt our tranquil work routine?
This is when I turn to a local treasure that transcends the ordinary coffee shop experience. Nestled away by the corner of Shattuck and Vine St, just around the corner from the legendary Cheeseboard Collective, lies the gem known as the Cafenated Coffee Co.
More than just a coffee shop, Cafenated is a farm-to-cup coffee roasting company that sources beans directly from well-established women’s coffee farm cooperatives. Their mission is to eliminate the middlemen and brokers who siphon profit from women and instead deliver coffee directly from cooperatives to consumers. Women remain underrepresented, underpaid, and underappreciated in the global coffee supply chain, and they aim to challenge this status quo.
Upon stepping through its doors, one is immediately enveloped in a sense of modern comfort and tranquility with an intimate seating area that boasts contemporary furnishings. Included are all the essential amenities of a top-tier coffee establishment such as an array of pastries to fuel your productivity and rotating drink specials like the Tiramisu Latte which I succumbed to on my latest visit.
Always fun is to notice the diverse mix of clientele from students venturing a bit farther from the university to work on an assignment mingling with locals popping in for their favorite pastries, while fellow remote workers like myself, tap away at their laptops, appreciating that this little sanctuary is just a short drive away.
Yet, the pièce de résistance reveals itself through the doors in the rear —a meticulously kept garden oasis offering a full menu. Shielded from the elements but offering ample sunlight for both flowers and customers to bloom, the seating area features large heaters for chilly evenings or summer days when June gloom forces us to keep our sweaters on. This outdoor haven offers peaceful zen amidst the urban bustle.
Amongst the lush foliage of local flora and fauna, patrons can indulge in a menu that draws inspiration from California’s diverse cooking traditions of creating soulful food that celebrates an ongoing relationship with local communities and suppliers. The Spicy Chicken & Waffle incorporates the right amount of heat and a satisfying crunch that complements a light, fluffy waffle. The Salmon Avocado Toast is also a vibrant and tasty standout!
So, the next time you find yourself yearning for a change of scenery from your home office, venture beyond the familiar confines of your local Starbucks and embark on a journey to Cafenated Coffee Co. With its blend of modern comfort, delicious offerings, and serene garden retreat, it's sure to become your ultimate haven for remote work bliss.
(800) 388-4049
2085 Vine St Berkeley, CA 94709
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