SAN DIEGO — This local spot serves coffee in a prehistoric-meets-fantasy bistro in the East Village.
In this eccentric atmosphere you will see birds of prey, dragons, a T-Rex and even a pterodactyl hanging over the counter.
Invigatoriumlocated at 631 Ninth Ave. in San Diego, produces coffees from roasted Up-to-date Times Coffee beans.
The menu includes classics like Americano, flat white and Frappuccino, but the café’s spring menu offers a few quirky takes on coffee drinks.
The Golden Super Basic, for example, is an oat milk latte served with ice, coconut, a turmeric blend, and a ginger-honey syrup, explains Fernando, a barista at The Invigatorium.
On Wednesday morning, Fernando explained in an interview with FOX 5 why he thinks Up-to-date Times beans are among the best in all of San Diego.
“I think it’s a matter of proportions,” he said. “It’s 60 percent Guatemala, 40 percent natural Ethiopia. It calls for a nice chocolate body, but then you get some nice fruity notes at the very end.”
Another coffee creation to choose from at The Invigatorium is the Einspänner, which Fernando says comes from Austria. The flavors you can expect: vanilla and cardamom with a hint of cinnamon. It’s usually served scorching, but the local barista says it can also be had iced.
Another eye-catching invention is the café’s horchata slush, created by San Diego barista Manny Medina, who Fernando says is quite well-known at the local coffee chain.
This drink is infused with a touch of pistachio and is designed for those who prefer to avoid caffeine, as it does not contain coffee. However, for those who want a pick-me-up, Fernando says you can add coffee or espresso.
The menu also has a ton of food options to pair with your beverage of choice. If you’re looking to spice up your morning coffee, order a “prehistoric cup of joe” with a little spice at this mystical East Village spot.
Invigatorium is open from Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Heather Lake of FOX 5 contributed to this report.
