Three teaspoons of sugar, two shots of espresso and one uniquely vintage coffee shop. The modestly discreet Brew Urban Coffee Shop is located in downtown Fort Lauderdale and resides in the hearts of camera-toting, book-snuggling, coffee-and-tea-drinking devotees.
Stepping into Brew, you’re welcomed into an old-fashioned living area, set with Victorian-styled furniture, overlooked by a floor-to-ceiling wall full of vintage books. The coffee house is occupied by people working diligently on their MacBooks, reading attentively through novels and peacefully indulging in a warm cup of coffee.
Everything, from the decadently mirrored bathroom to the antique chandelier hanging over the bar, exudes an aged yet trendy feel ― especially the outside back area, which is adorned with colorful graffiti and comfortable couches. Becoming absorbed in the relaxed atmosphere is an easy task many coffee-drinking Fort Lauderdale natives share.
Brew makes an avid attempt to steer clear from the typical franchised coffee shop feel, and its unique qualities contribute to its easily distinguishable vibe. Brew’s innovative menu is tastefully handwritten within a set of gently used books. Choosing coffee at Brew is a journey of variety rather than a chore of selection. The caramel macchiato, vanilla affogato and honey cappuccino are just some of the menu options that help transform curious customers into returning regulars.
Aside from being dedicated to its raw atmosphere, Brew also makes a conscious effort to appeal to its healthy consumers. They offer organic almond, soy and coconut milks, and even vegan and gluten fresh-baked goods.
You not only enjoy the perfect cup of coffee at Brew, but also the skill of a well-trained barista with latte art talent. Almost every warm drink is aesthetically served with delicate drawings. Anything from intricate leaves to simple hearts can be found in Brew’s warm cups. Though these skillfully drawn images appear peacefully placed, disturbing them with the desire to enjoy a lightly-flavored caffeinated drink is highly expected. The distinct hints of lavender, vanilla, caramel and other aromas permeate from the coffee mug and infiltrate the taste buds of the hankered individual. Every sip of coffee at Brew is a nostalgic reminder of the lost appreciation of art, culture and coffee.
Not only does Brew create an amazing environment for coffee, but they also make an effort to support local Fort Lauderdale businesses. Root + Leaf fresh natural pressed juice is sold here as well C&I design studio apparel. And they also host a fun-filled movie night every Tuesday from 6 to 10 p.m.
Brew Urban Coffee House has the perfect atmosphere for anyone who enjoys a rustic aura accompanied by a personalized cup of coffee. Despite the success of franchised coffee shops that are praised ubiquitously throughout South Florida, Brew is one of the few places that embraces the subculture coffee shops have lost. Between the unique use of books, gifted baristas and creative space, Brew proves in more ways than one that it’s brewing up something a bit more special than a cup of coffee.
