sprite writes
broodings from the burrow

November 11, 2019


coffeeneuring 2019 #5: altani gelato and coffee
posted by soe 1:21 am

Ride #5: Saturday, Nov. 9, afternoon
Altani Gelato and Coffee (202 M St., S.E.)

Coffeeneuring 2019 #5

Because they were holding a book-themed event, I decided to bike over to Canal Park near the ballpark Saturday afternoon. I took the bike trail that runs from Rock Creek Park and along the Potomac and then dumps you unceremoniously into the street at the Wharf Part II construction zone. (Honestly, a sign announcing “sidewalk ends” located on the far side of an intersection and 15 feet from a fence is pointless.) The day was brisk, with a breeze, but not unseasonable for November, and the sun had peeked through the clouds. A sweatshirt, puffy vest, and cowl were sufficient; I can’t actually remember if I was biking with my mittens on or not.

Anyway, I got to Canal Park in time to do a little shopping, but not in time to enjoy the fire pits or s’mores (alas!).

The skating rink at the park was doing good business on its first day of the season, but the line was not long at either the pizza place or the gelateria/coffeeshop inside.

Coffeeneuring 2019 #5

While the gelato flavors looked exciting, I opted for the more traditional baked good and hot drink option. Cocoa would have been my preferred drink, but it was priced as if it were located next to a kids’ attraction, so I opted for a cup of Earl Grey instead. And at the barista’s suggestion, I opted for a pistachio croissant over a ginger puff.

Coffeeneuring 2019 #5

Both were excellent choices, perfect for sitting outside. The croissant was filled the old fashioned way — sliced down its length and slathered with pistachio butter. This guaranteed there weren’t any empty spots! And Earl Grey is always a nice choice on a day with a bit of a chill in the air.

Coffeeneuring 2019 #5

I watched folks skate for a while, as I perused my purchases. I thought about renting a pair of skates for a few minutes, but decided to save that for another day. But it was tempting.

Coffeeneuring 2019 #5

There is a Bikeshare station across the street (and several others in close proximity), and a decent amount of bike parking at the park.

With the sun waning, it was time to move on. Because I didn’t want to miss an art opening (or arrive at it gasping and sweaty), I opted to catch metro to the rest of the day’s adventures. But it was a good stop, and I’ll be back in the warmer months to sample the gelato.

Total mileage: 5.28 miles

Category: dc life,sports. There is/are 2 Comments.