This story originally appeared in the Dec. 9 edition of the LINK Reader. To get these stories first, subscribe here.
This streetscapes is a rather winding one and covers a few different streets but is centralized in the city of Erlanger. If you haven’t had the chance to visit this city, come with me to Erlanger for some coffee, charcuterie and brunch.
The Coffee Bean: 659 Stevenson Road
If we’ve learned anything during this streetscapes series, it’s that all roads lead to coffee. Even the most winding ones, like Stevenson, are worth the drive as it leads you to a new coffee shop, The Coffee Bean.
I was greeted by a cutely decorated interior with multiple chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. I was greeted right away by the owner, who led me to my classic choice: an iced pumpkin spiced latte. The Coffee Bean has endless flavors to choose from, allowing guests to customize any drink. The Bean also sells the flavored syrup it uses for coffee, so anyone can make their favorite bougie brew at home.
Beyond its coffee menu, The Bean also sells candy and highly-giftble treats that are sure to please anyone in need of something sweet. The space was large, beautiful and peaceful. Because The Coffee Bean just opened, it’s still a hidden gem, but it’s not likely to stay hidden for long.
Social Grazer: 1368 Cox Ave
The biggest challenge of any holiday season is providing snacks for crowd after crowd of guests. This is where Social Grazer shines. Charcuterie boards are practically required at parties anymore. Personally speaking, any charcuterie is good charcuterie, in my book.
I first was introduced to Social Grazer at a LINK nky open house event that featured charcuterie cones. They were mini charcuterie cups containing salami, cheeses, and other grazable favorites in a tiny, handheld container that allowed guests to snack and chat.
Social Grazer does more than specialty catering, though. They specialize in large spreads to feed a crowd. These are truly beautiful works of art that most of us could only dream of making. It’s an easy, no-effort way to raise the bar of any get-together while supporting a local business. Orders can be places online and picked up at their location on Cox Ave.
The Hive: 480 Erlanger Road
In a matter of mere months, this family-owned business has certainly made a name for tself. Owned by Erlanger Mayor Jessica Fette, the restaurant and café has become one of the most popular spots in the city.
This two-story eatery features a coffee shop and bakery upstairs, while the main level serves classy breakfast and brunch-style dishes. They have all of the familiar favorites on the brunch menu, but I have dreams about The Hive’s breakfast bowls. The simplicity of taking breakfast staples and tossing them into one bowl will always win me over. Food can be that simple, when it’s that good.
As with all brunches, mimosas and coffee had to be ordered and we couldn’t leave without dessert, in the form of bourbon French toast. The sweetness of the bourbon-infused syrup created a heavenly balance to keep me coming back, bite after bite.
We couldn’t leave without visiting the coffee bar, which is where you can now find me for the remainder of the year, sipping lattes and enjoying The Hive’s mid-century modern furniture.
Have a street, city or business you want me to visit next? Email me at mchehman@gmail.com and it could be featured on the next LINK streetscapes.
