Now Open--Carmel's Coffee & Bakery
Anyone who follows us on Twitter knows that Tyda found the best waffle ever made at a pretentious little café called Chestnut Lane. Well, Chestnut Lane closed a few months ago, taking with it (sadly) that waffle but (happily) the real housewives of Paradise Valley who hung out there. The groovy little standalone building at 44th & Camelback now has a new lease on life (literally, someone signed a lease) as Carmel’s Coffee & Bakery.
The owner, Pat Flanigan, spent years to make a design TV show called Desert Lifestyles TV. Funny how things work out. Flanagan always wanted to own a coffeebar and all those years around design apparently gave him the ability to make the most of the space that would house his real dream–barrista-ing. He removed the ceiling tiles and exposed the wood beams; took a middle wall down, opening the space up for better flow; created levels of seating that now include a bar, community table, and room for groups or two-tops; and, perhaps the simplest fix, put on some good music. The space is downright comfortable to be in and the bean comes from local roaster, Cartel Coffee Lab, so the kick is good.
But best of all, the place has got soul. Clapton was strumming away on the speakers when we walked in. Some of Flanagan’s first dollar bills are framed by cream and sugar station. There’s quirky touches like paintings on the steps (see below). And a picture Carmel’s namesake, his late mother, hangs by the door.
Everything in the place comes secondhand, whether it’s the spare wood previously used as wall framing that now lines the bar, chairs picked up from an old high school, or banquet seats scored for under $10 each. It’s open from 6am-5pm daily, and serves a small selection of baked goods as well. Stop in soon – this is one to support.
4233 East Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ 85018
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