1 drink to go: Cinchona a-go-go
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The blueberry matcha at Cinchona. Photo: Glenn Wallace
I stopped by Cinchona (pronounced "seen-cho-na"), the new downtown caffeine bar on Mother's Day, to see whether the buzz was justified.
First impression: Standing room only, with five eager customers queued up.
Why it matters: Cinchona started as a pop-up inside Provision Bread & Bakery before opening a stand-alone shop on April 20.
- In just a few weeks, it's garnered high praise and repeat visits from local food guru Matthew Schniper.
The intrigue: Axios Colorado Springs newsletter editor Gigi Sukin even got a Cinchona recommendation from a barista at another downtown coffee shop — which will remain nameless — suggesting she head there for superior bean juice.
The vibe: To echo the Colorado Springs Gazette, think hip art gallery, exposed brick and all — warm, not pretentious. Retail shelves are stocked with sci-fi books, fancy whole-bean coffee bags and a small collection of menswear ... because why not?
Dig in: The menu is short but stylized and intriguing, including "spro" —espresso, for the uninitiated — plus matcha, teas and mocha made with gourmet chocolate.
Pro tip: The blueberry matcha is gorgeous and tasty, with mesmerizing dip-dye layers. But stir before sipping, or you'll get too much matcha bitterness with none of the blueberry payoff.
Best sip: I grabbed a Cinchona Fizz to go — espresso over ice with house-made tonic and a dollop of salted whipped cream — and I was not prepared.
- The zippy tonic and spro spar on the tongue in surprising ways.
- It's cool, creamy and refreshing, and not overly sweet.
Threat level: Fancy drinks like the Fizz or blueberry matcha will set you back $9.50.
Stop by: Cinchona is open 6am–6pm daily.