Baristas and Books - The Vault

It seems very appropriate that my first Baristas and Books post spotlights my favorite coffee spot for writing-The Vault.

The Vault is a unique and intimate coffee nook, tucked away above Aldrich's (an historic grocery store rebuilt after fire), in uptown Port T0wnsend, WA. It's occupies its own sweet corner of the building next to a bank and overlooking the store (strange, huh?). It's two free walls display local artists' work, typically changing each month. Last month featured Jesse Watson, not only a cool guy, but awesome artist, and talented children's book illustrator. This month one of the barista's (Mallory) artwork is displayed.

This is one of her pieces haning now (and it's sold!). The Vault also sells books and CDs by Port Townsend residents. How cool is that?

One of several friendly faces greets me each time I show up with my computer/writing bag slung over my shoulder. And none of the lovely baristas ever make me feel bad about taking up one of their tables for hours at a time.

I had a chance to talk to a couple of them.

That's Mallory on the left and Alison on the right.

THE INTERVIEW

What's your favorite drink to make?
Mallory: A Caramel Macchiato

What's your favorite children's book and why?

Mallory: The Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle books because they are great magical stories. The Boxcar Children, too.

Alison: Totto-Chan. Someone gave it to my sister when I was five and I still have it. I still read it once a year.

Alison even mentioned loving the story and the original sketch so much that she wants to get a tattoo of it. Now that's book love!

Now, because I'm curious, if you were to ever get a "book" related tattoo, what would it be?

Why is The Vault a great place to plop with a good read?
Because we have a very relaxing energy that creates productive customers,” Mallory laughs, “and a warm atmosphere.”

I completely agree.