Best Cup of Coffee [Poll]

I remember my first cup of great coffee. It was created via a French press that my husband and I received as a gift. I'd been a social coffee drinker during college, but this robust brew launched a love affair with that morning ritual so dearly loved by many.

I've often wondered what it is about coffee that is so comforting. There is, of course, the energizing factor of caffeine. But having recently switched to decaf (I know, it's not "real" coffee), I find my anticipation unaltered as that dark goodness drips out of the coffee maker.

The smell of freshly brewed coffee in the morning reminds me of my mother, who was always to first to arise in our house. That smell meant that mom was awake and would be ready with a greeting when I stumbled sleepily down to the kitchen. And although I'm not usually the first to set foot in the kitchen, I wonder if that familiar smell of coffee brewing will offer the same comfort for my children.

Not only does it bring solace in the morning, but the noble cup of joe brings people together. The first coffee house I experienced was in the early 1990s while living in Richmond. Before there was a Starbucks on every corner, we discover World Cup, a small hip space that not only had coffee drinks and treats, but shelves filled with games and books with overstuffed chairs and couches inviting you to stay a while. For college kids with limited funds, meeting friends here for a cup of coffee was an affordable alternative to dinner and clubs.

On a recent trip to in Sandy Hook, I noticed three tables of young patrons probably high school and college age. These customers were gathered over cups of flavored lattes catching up on each other's lives, just what a coffee house should do.

With the recent closing of the Hideaway Cafe, there's one less place to meet a friend. Here are a few spots where I've enjoyed a cup:

Many shops, stores and delis offer coffee, but, as with , everyone has a favorite cup of coffee. What's yours?