Review: Bombadill's Neighborhood Coffee House

Bombadill's Neighborhood Coffee House
(734) 544-5080
217 W. Michigan Ave
Ypsilanti MI 48197

Hours of Operation:
Monday - Thursday 7am-10pm
Friday & Saturday 7am-11pm
Sunday 9am-9pm
Internet Available: Yes (Free Wireless, SSID: bombadills)

Opening in September, 2004, Bombadill's has become a local watering hole, frequented by students, professors, local buisness owners, even the mayor and city council members. There are a number of groups that meet on a regular basis at the cafe that are open to all, including a tax preparation guru, knitting circle, bible study, and swing dancing instruction.

Coffee and teas are from Vail Mountain Coffee & Tea Company, and there are four different espresso roasts to choose from. The Peters Blend coffee is quite good, low on the acidity, flavourfull, and a daily rotating 2nd brew is available. Soups are in-house recipes, changeing daily, though the tomato soup is available every day. Tuesday usually features chicken chili, while other favourites of The Ypsilantian staff include the Mushroom and Brie, and the Cheddar and Ale. Sandwich and wrap options change frequently, but the Grilled Cheese is likely the best you've ever had. Feedback is always appreciated, as many wraps and sandwiches are inspirations from the staff, which includes several culinary arts students.

The decor is warm and welcoming, and features local artists in a rotating gallery managed by the Riverside Arts Theatre. Currently on display are a number of paintings by Fritz, one of the baristas, including a gorgeous oil on canvas depicting the cafe itself, also available for purchase as a print. Local music is also a common feature both on the stereo, and live.