Gene, Gene the Coffee Machine

Gene is one of the latest little coffee shops to open on Main... or is it Kingsway? It can be found on that little pie wedge of a block that points north and overlooks downtown framed by Main and Kingsway. It is actually the ideal little location for those who are waiting for that #8 Fraser bus or for those who have just made their latest purchase from Pulp Fiction a few doors up.

The folks we saw in this place were young hipsters sipping their straight espresso shots and working on their Macs. They went well with the decor of 180 degree view through the super tall windows, the minimalist industrial feel of the pipe fixtures and the institutional furniture - and by that I mean the chairs and stools that can be found in any elementary school. All of the accessories had very clean lines (I actually really like their saucers with the off center cup well). It appears to still be a work in progress, but it is shaping up to be a very cool place. We are hoping that they will be able to get a permit for the steel tables and chairs outside to create that Euro feel.

The Americano I had was smooth (there was a potential danger of the barrista adding too much water which was quickly averted) with a little bit more of a bitter taste than what I usually go for, but very good nonetheless. I don't know where they get their baked goods from but the 'power muffin' that I had was filling and tasty filled with a variety of nuts, dates and chocolate. I am sure that there will be more food items on the menu once th place has finished up a bit more and got its feet wet. Maybe they should star getting baked goods from the people at Re-Entry? Hmm?

Note: I had to laugh as we left the cafe. If you remember to go out the Main Street exit, check out the little handle sign. It has a clipped out picture of Sean Penn with the caption "Don't push me!"


Out of 5 Sean Penn Punches

Scene: 4 - It has great potential to be a very happening place and not just because a community center is opening across the street from it. The views are spectacular, the people are almost too hip but the place is still shaping up.

Grub: 3 - There really wasn't a whole lot to offer but what we had was great. Hopefully, as I mentioned before, the place is still in the midst of getting its act in order.

Coffee: 4 - The coffee was great. However, indicate how much water they put in the americano if you are particular. The coffee was a little bit too cool when it was served which can kill the coffee if you're not careful. Otherwise I would definitely go back again. In fact I know I will when they get a little bit get a bit more grounded.