Review: Indies Coffee Bar and Speakeasy    

Concerts, movie nights, and aspiring artists are the focal point of a new coffee shop on the island.

Located on 61st Street, Indies Coffee Bar and Speakeasy was opened by Marine Corps veteran Brandon Jones of League City. After going to school in Dallas, he worked for a development agency in Hollywood, for CBS, and more.

He opened the shop because “I just want people to come here and have a good time” at a spot with good coffee, good shows, and good music because “coffee brings people together.” He also hopes to discover new talent, whether it be musicians, actors, screenwriters, or directors.

All of the coffee is roasted in the building, which is right next to a cigar lounge. This gives the entire building a smell that is reminiscent of a 1920s coffee bar.

The plain coffee is delicious, whether it be their custom blends, an Americano, or a cappuccino. The coffee has a delicious flavor and aroma that is much different from what you would get elsewhere. This is especially true when the coffee isn't overly sweet or excessively milky.

While their plain coffee is delicious, even with their few sweetened and milk-added lattes, their coffee has a distinct flavor profile that is satisfying even when masked with sugar. Which only goes to speak to how good the coffee bean itself really is.

While their coffee is excellent, they also have various snacks available that are from places in League City. Most other coffee shops on the island get their food almost entirely from Chef Mary Bass, so this variety is an excellent change from the usual.

With movie nights on Mondays and live music as often as possible from indie artists. Brandon Jones wants this to be almost an entertainment production company via the sustainable business model of a coffee shop.

Though the coffee itself is fantastic, I do wish they had a wider variety of flavors and lattes to choose from to introduce more variety and themed flavors. Coupled with their location far away from The Strand and campus, it may not be the most convenient choice for some customers.

Overall, the coffee and food are excellent with outstanding execution on entertainment. It is a spot I will keep my eyes on for events and studying, despite its lack of a large variety of flavors and faraway location.

4 out of 5 stars.