While searching for unique coffee shops in Pennsylvania, I came across The Village Coffee & Cream in Shrewsbury PA. What drew me to this place was an exterior photo I had seen of this building online. It was originally established in 1850 as the Shrewsbury Savings Institution. I took this photo during my trip in December, captivated by the architecture and those garland wrapped columns. A step inside feels like entering a cozy home, with a wood burning fireplace and comfy vintage seating. I was a typical tourist, taking photos of the stained glass, the stunning detail of the woodwork and the old vault door that exposes the inner workings of the gears. The owners even went so far as to offer seating inside the old vault which houses black and white portraits rich in the history of the area and the people.

Now, let’s talk about the café itself. Walking in, we were the only people that were there so you would assume that the baristas, at the very least, would warmly recognize your presence. My commentary here is certainly not intended to dissuade you from visiting, simply worth noting that the two younger women were topically polite but overall not very welcoming or interactive. If you enjoy coffee shops for the atmosphere, it is important to keep this in mind. I’m a huge proponent of “service matters” so for me I would say the building wowed and the service fell flat. For example, I asked, “How is the ice cream? I bet it’s amazing since it’s homemade.” One barista responded with a rather deflated, “it’s good.” Not really selling it! Nevertheless, I ordered a soy latte with a flavored syrup. The latte? “It was good…” (insert barista’s enthusiasm here). For me personally, there wasn’t much of an expresso presence. On the plus side, they offer a few different milk alternatives. It’s a shame we were there so early in the morning or I undoubtedly would’ve partaken in one of the several vegan ice cream options they offer…which is rare. Typically, they list ‘vegan options’ and it’s sorbet. Let’s face it, sorbet is no ice cream by any means. They also have a display case of pastries they rotate and I did see one item that said vegan/GF and another that said keto. Already having eaten breakfast, I did not indulge in any of those items to give an adequate report. What I will say is if you are out in York PA, Round the Clock Diner is a must visit! I had the seasonal Pumpkin Pecan Pancakes (vegetarian, not vegan) and I would drive over 2 hours there again just for those! Service was great, coffee was hot and what a value.

Things to see nearby? The goal was to visit the Markets at Shrewsbury in Glenrock PA but unfortunately they were closed for the holiday week. I’ve read rave reviews about the trip to the Markets, so I’ll definitely be heading back. Traveling two hours from home, the goal is to make the most out of your trip. I came across this building I had to see in person. It’s called the Haines Shoe House, built in 1948 as an advertisement for his shoe sales business. Not much to do there, just had to see this one in person.

On the way home, we stopped in Lititz to explore the town which I must say was charmingly adorned with holiday decor. What is not charming about Lititz, is the experience you will have at the spice store Zest. One of the workers followed me through the store and screamed at me for not wearing my mask properly, to which we promptly left. Their loss. I typically spend money I don’t need to in kitchen stores. I would honestly not return to Lititz until the masks are gone…certainly never to Zest again. Turning a negative into a positive, after the shouting incident I rightfully exclaimed, “I need a drink!” Which brings me to my last stop on this journey, the Black Forest Brewery in Ephrata.

Once again restoring my faith that good customer service still exists and a cozy, inviting atmosphere to boot. I’m now following them on Facebook and they post photos of the different specials they are running. A week ago it was a kale salad with walnuts, grapefruit and a house made honey ginger vinaigrette. Wish they were closer. The nice thing about their menu is they label vegetarian and dairy free items. I would highly recommend checking them out if you’re in Ephrata! A trip there salvaged what was looking to be a downward spiraling day.