Its fall and you know what that means…it's time for pumpkin spiced lattes and other seasonal coffee creations! I recently had the pleasure of visiting Vespr Craft Coffees and Allures in Orlando, Florida to try out their new fall menu. In addition to specializing in unforgettable hand-crafted coffees and teas, they are also devoted to giving back to the environment. The owner, Edd, ensures they use only the highest quality ingredients sourced from farmers who participate in the Fair Trade system. This system allows the farmers to receive fair payment for the products they work so hard to cultivate.
First up on their fall menu was the Calvin & Hobbes, a blend of spiced lemonade and Hibiscus tea. Specially crafted ice cubes keep this tasty concoction perfectly chilled while prolonging the melting process allowing you to slowly sip on this refreshing beverage. The only other thing you'll need is a front porch and a nice breeze.
Next was The Dick Tracy – an extraordinary combination of espresso and maple syrup with a side tasting of bacon and black truffle. It’s rich, thick and has incredible layers of flavor. I was presented with a small carafe containing warm milk which Edd explained should be poured into the maple syrup and espresso combo and sipped slowly only after consuming the specially cured bacon and black truffle. The bacon definitely helps bring out the maple notes and the espresso balanced everything seamlessly.
And last but definitely not least, The Great Pumpkin – a combination of espresso and natural pumpkin spice syrup topped with pumpkin whipped cream & cinnamon crunch. Edd generously provided me with a side of their pumpkin whipped cream. He revealed to me that the secret ingredient is none other than real pumpkin! It is truly mind-blowingly amazing! This beverage can best be described as fall in a cup.
Vespr also offers a variety of pastries courtesy of Iced Bakery. My favorite was their fantastic Nutella bombs - which are appropriately named due to the flavor explosion that happens after taking your first bite! Other popular items include their decadent red velvet brownies and pumpkin whoopie pies. They also just added sandwiches to their menu, all of which looked absolutely divine! I will definitely be returning to try The Fellini which consists of goat cheese, fig marmalade, kale, and prosciutto! Did someone say lunchtime?