Rachel Lehman officially opened Crema last month (Jan., 2008). A nice-size, Crema has the bar (above) with a few seats (They're right in front of the guy who's talking with Rachel.), a few comfy chairs (to the left of where I'm standing), and a few tables and chairs (behind me in front of the window). Crema is currently hosting a display of artwork by Aaron Grayum (Click here to see some of his work.), a Nashville artist.
What I found interesting about Crema is that Rachel, who has spent 10 years in the coffee business, is only 25 years old. Her great-grandfather immigrated from Italy and passed his love for wine, good food and coffee
down through the generations.
The other thing that I find great is that Rachel and Ben (her husband) tried to use recycled materials in building Crema. The counter shown above is renewable bamboo, and holding it up are recycled doors (right). Whenever possible, they bought stuff from the local Habitat for Humanity store. They're also using green lighting and trying to recycle (not something done by the metro trash pick-up).
While Crema is all about coffee, they do offer a few pastry options - cookies, scones, etc. - although they get them from a local bakery.
Having owned an independent store, I know how much work and love go into a place like this. And, with franchises competing for business, survival can be hard. But, I think that Crema offers great coffee (It was the best latte I've ever had.), good service, and a comfortable place. I think they'll do fine.
What I found interesting about Crema is that Rachel, who has spent 10 years in the coffee business, is only 25 years old. Her great-grandfather immigrated from Italy and passed his love for wine, good food and coffee
down through the generations.The other thing that I find great is that Rachel and Ben (her husband) tried to use recycled materials in building Crema. The counter shown above is renewable bamboo, and holding it up are recycled doors (right). Whenever possible, they bought stuff from the local Habitat for Humanity store. They're also using green lighting and trying to recycle (not something done by the metro trash pick-up).
While Crema is all about coffee, they do offer a few pastry options - cookies, scones, etc. - although they get them from a local bakery.
Having owned an independent store, I know how much work and love go into a place like this. And, with franchises competing for business, survival can be hard. But, I think that Crema offers great coffee (It was the best latte I've ever had.), good service, and a comfortable place. I think they'll do fine.
