Lunch Break: Penny Lane Art Gallery and Cafe

Sampling dishes and diners in and around Miami County

It’s a hard truth to accept, but it is a truth nonetheless. Good coffee shops are few and far between. So, when you find one close to home, it’s comparable to winning the lottery. A few backroads away in New Carlisle lies what I might possibly call the best coffee shop I've ever been to. Their only flaw is that there are too many good options to choose from.

Like many young women my age, I’ll take any opportunity to buy an overpriced latte and call it coffee. However, the thing about Penny Lane Art Gallery and Cafe is that the coffees are fun and themed but not overpriced at all. A rare sighting in the coffee shop community. When I was scanning the seasonal drink menu, it was hard not to cave and order the flight of coffees to try every single one. Hard, in part because all of the flavors sounded delicious but also because a flight was the same price as a large latte at other cafes.

I can see how reasonable prices may seem reason for suspicion in today's day and age, and I was skeptical at first, too. However, after looking over the seasonal menu extensively, I decided to order the Chocolate Covered Pistachio Latte, and it was nothing short of amazing. The coffee taste rings true, which I’m sure for most of this audience is important. However, for the ones who like a sweet treat, the coffee also tastes like a warm pistachio-flavored tiramisu. I ordered the medium and, after one sip, immediately regretted not going for the large. I also had to restrain myself from ordering all of the other coffees on the menu. The sandwich and Panini menu is also extensive and full of delicious options. As I was in the summer mood, I chose the Sundried Sunrise Sandwich, and it was incredible. The eggs were not too runny, but the perfect bouncy sandwich texture. The bread is a perfectly grilled ciabatta covered with creamy pesto and juicy sundried tomatoes inside, all topped with fresh summery basil.

Not only is the menu incredible, but its theme makes Penny Lane so unique. After all, it is a gallery and cafe. Many of the sandwiches are named after famous artists, and as you enjoy your coffee and sandwich, there's an aura of creativity vibrating off the walls. The walls are covered in local art and other creations. The air is also humming with conversation, as well as artsy music. Also, the baristas are incredibly speedy, so there’s plenty of time to stop in and enjoy the lovely atmosphere of Penny Lane on your lunch break.

Penny Lane Art Gallery and Café opened its doors in June 2012 and is located at 109 S. Main St., New Carlisle.  http://www.pennylaneartgallery.com