“Not before I’ve had my coffee…”

People endlessly make jokes about their demeanor before they’ve had it. The thing is, it’s not much of a joke. Many, myself included, require coffee to function properly throughout the day. While some might see this as a weakness, I embrace it. I don’t care that I’m a miserable human being if I don’t get those sips of caffeine to start my day. My morning coffee is one of the most enjoyable parts of life for me. I love coffee. I’m a fiend. I drink it black because cream and sugar dilute the intensity. I look forward to the aroma, the taste and that sweet buzz that gets me going. Forget chocolate and oysters — coffee is like a seductive aphrodisiac that leaves me wanting more.

For those who consider Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks to be their source of coffee on the way to work or throughout the day; I beg you to reconsider. You haven’t had good coffee. You’ve been brainwashed to think you have. This week, perhaps go a bit out of your way to check out a local coffee shop or cafe in your area. Try an iced coffee or cappuccino that isn’t burnt and requires you to load it with cream and sugar. You’ll be drinking good quality – don’t you deserve that!?

Here are my Top 5 favorite cafes/coffee shops in Massachusetts (in no particular order):

1. The Coffee Shack – Marshfield

My hometown go-to for coffee, The Coffee Shack is a laid-back hidden gem of the South Shore. Fishermen, professionals, teenagers and beach-goers alike frequent the shop for their gourmet coffees and donuts. If you’re a purist, their house iced coffee is delicious and complex enough to drink black with chocolatey notes throughout. If you’re in for a treat, pick from their impressive list of gourmet coffees from pumpkin to berries and nuts. The homemade donuts are to die for with unique flavors such as the peanut butter filled or Bavarian cream, baked every day right on site – these donuts can’t be beat! The lovely ladies who work The Coffee Shack know their regulars and keep a conversation flowing with each other and the customers, giving this place a real hometown feel.

2. Haymarket Cafe – Northampton

Located in trendy downtown Northampton, Haymarket is an edgy cafe with lots of reasons to head there. Espresso and brewed coffee are just the tip of the iceberg at this cafe with an extensive food menu consisting of savory breakfast dishes to a varied lunch and dinner menu. Not hungry? Try one of Haymarket’s fantastic smoothies, my favorite being the Spanking (raspberry, banana, frozen yogurt, mango, cider). Ultimately, I head here for their deliciously full body brewed coffee and inspiring atmosphere.

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3. Redeye Roasters – Hingham

Currently only serving Saturday’s at the Hingham Farmer’s Market, Redeye Roasters was started by Bob Weeks of Hingham who has a distinct passion for coffee and a refreshing philosophy on it’s origins. He carefully selects his own beans and roasts them right in his own home.  Bob has traveled to South and Central America to see firsthand where the coffee originates and all the hard labor that goes into growing the product. Redeye Roasters is truly an organic approach to coffee and it’s source.  Hingham is anxiously awaiting the opening of Redeye Roasters’ cafe come late September. Look forward to espresso, teas, pastries, atmosphere and magic. Until then, check out Redeye Roasters at the Hingham Farmers Market on Saturday’s from 10-2.

4. The Gulu Gulu Cafe – Salem

The Gulu Gulu Cafe in Salem is the perfect location to sip coffee, read a book or visit with friends. With ample seating and tables indoors and out, you’ll never want to leave this place. You could literally come at open and leave at closing – starting the morning with delicious espresso drinks or brewed coffee and ending the day with intoxicating martinis or crafted beers. The interior is a comfortable wide open space with local art adorning the walls, tall ceilings and large windows, giving the cafe an even greater downtown Salem feel. Wait until you see this place on a rainy day – you’ll get that romantic city vibe in no time. The cafe also hosts a wide variety of events such as their Halloween bash that reaches capacity every year and open mic every Wednesday night. Bohemian cafe by day, trendy hot spot by night, Gulu Gulu Cafe is one of my favorite hang out spots of all time.

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5. Diesel Cafe - Somerville

Not only does Diesel Cafe in Somerville serve a kick ass espresso, it’s got the most fun decor of a cafe I’ve seen. Street signs and color fill out this cafe like no other. If you’re done working or reading that book, call down some friends and shoot some pool or have some photo booth fun. Hungry? Diesel has a fresh menu with sandwiches and salads along with a mouth-watering selection of pastries. I recommend hands down the Little Piston (fresh mozzarella, pesto, tomato and onion on a baguette). Also, if you’re a hummus fan, don’t  leave without trying the hummus plate! One of my favorite aspects of Diesel is getting my cup of coffee in a porcelain cup when I’m not getting coffee to go. Waste not, want not! Diesel was just awarded the Green Business of the Year Award by the Somerville Chamber of Commerce. The friendly and dare I say fashionable staff along with great coffee and green methods make this cafe undoubtedly a favorite of mine.

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