If there is a Platonic form that represents the ideal espresso, it exists in a ceramic cup, a demitasse. Glass is also good, but definitely not a paper cup. Paper cups are, by their very nature, disposable, intended for low quality products and low quality experiences. Espresso deserves better and the vessel it is served in should reflect the time, effort, and technology that went into creating it. This was a beautiful coffee shop, in a nice area, with good ambiance, and an equally high quality espresso machine. In spite of this, there were no non-paper cup options available. The coffee was good and I would go back. I will not badmouth a small business, but every component of an experience matters. Espresso should be an experience.
-Robert Van Valkenburgh teaches Taikyoku Budo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Kogen Dojo
Meditations on God 