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New coffee place opens in vintage house on Alameda

By Mary Gottschalk

After six long months, the "grand opening" sign is up at Crema Coffee Roasting Company.

Crema, at 950 The Alameda, has been the focus of attention and speculation since the "coming soon" sign went up in early 2007 and construction started.

It finally opened its doors on July 21. Before the first week was out, there was already one resident coffee shop camper staking out a central table with his laptop, papers and coffee cup.

That Crema is offering free Wi-Fi makes it likely the number of campers will grow.

In addition to the expected coffees and espressos, Crema also offers a wide selection of teas, Italian sodas, bottled water and cans of Coca-Cola.

There's also a selection of packaged sandwiches, pastries, breads, cakes and fresh fruit.

The owners, who did not respond to repeated requests for an interview, have created an inviting atmosphere, inside and out.

Interior walls are persimmon, lime and tan with chocolate trim around the windows and floorboards. The wooden tables, chairs and flooring give the room a solid feeling. A couch and easy chairs arranged around the fireplace make for a comfortable, cozy nook.

If you forgot your laptop or didn't bring a book, there's a selection of current magazines and newspapers to browse.

Most welcome on The Alameda is the front patio with its slate floor surrounded by plantings. The tables and chairs, with umbrellas to maintain some shade, are inviting. Ashtrays are set out for smokers.

Crema is a dramatic change from the earlier businesses that have occupied the site on the corner of The Alameda and S. Morrison Avenue.

Past occupants have included Rivera's Play Pen, a bar, and Radiator Depot.

The staff at Crema says it is open from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily. Its website at www.cremacoffeeco.com is under construction.