four hundred twenty five

 

All American Drive Thru Coffee

These small businesses are now through out the country but the first time I saw one was on my first bicycle ride through the Pacific North West.  As I rode from town to town I started seeing these little buildings along the highway and in dozens of shopping plaza parking lots. They didn't seem to be part of a corporate chain or a franchise, they were independent local businesses. 

There were some with long lines and some that were quiet. At each one I was greeted by one or two smiling young women. Back then they serve up a double shot of espresso for only a dollar. These blasts of peddling fuel helped me keep a faster pace all of the way to the Canadian border.

 

I marveled at the genius of the building design not only for the efficiency but for the view. I'm older but I'm still breathing so the sight of a pretty girl from all angles brightens my day. 

As they work one window they provide a pleasant view for the waiting customers on the opposite side. I personally don't ogle but I do glance. Their uniforms ranged from well fitting jeans to Daisy Duke short shorts, this helps the tip jars overflow I'm sure. 

There isn't a lot of coffee grown in America other than Hawaii but Americans do love their morning coffee. America may not have the most sophisticated coffee but we do put our unique spin on making it and selling it.

The efficiency of these tiny buildings and the thought that goes into measuring the height of a pickup truck window to provide a proper view is very creative.

Some of these embrace good old capitalism and make a few bucks with a little "T"and"A". If a construction worker on his way to work drops a five in the tip jar instead of a one because he gets his morning coffee and a smile from a pretty girl God Bless America.

I absolutely love seeing these small independent businesses springing up just about everywhere.  The corporate chains will always have a blue hair nose ring Barista ready to serve you burned coffee. Why not take a chance on an independent local business. 

Yes there are male Baristas and bikinis aren't required but a pleasant smile and a coffee drink to start or end your day is well worth the detour.