It’s called a flat white—a double-shot of espresso crowned with velvety micro-foam. And it’s the drink that propelled Drew Crockett to open his first HubBub Coffee in 2003, near his University of Pennsylvania alma mater.
Now, with two Philly shops and a bright-red café-on-wheels to his credit, Crockett has shifted his focus to the Main Line, opening a HubBub location in Radnor. Found in the same high-end strip mall as Honeygrow and the soon-to-open Estia Greek Taverna, it exudes a well-orchestrated hipness, with its cement floors, handsome reclaimed wood, polished copper accessories, and alt-rock soundtrack. But behind the counter, it’s all about the utter purity of the craft.
At HubBub, friendly baristas pull proper shots from a La Marzocco GB/5 espresso machine while producing potent cups of drip coffee from Chemex pour-over setups. The menu features Americanos, macchiatos, lattes, iced brews and, yes, the aforementioned flat whites. The beans—from respected roasters like Portland’s Stumptown and Philly’s ReAnimator—make all the difference.
The vibe at HubBub is as comfortable as a pair of broken-in boots. Reclaimed bar furniture and handmade tables tempt patrons to linger awhile. Delectable edibles
include Sugar Philly macarons, Gilda’s biscotti, and Au Fournil pastries.
If you want to take a little HubBub home with you, a retail section is stocked with gourmet goods from indie purveyors, bags of beans, and more. 232 N. Radnor Chester Road, Radnor, (610) 687-1710, www.hubbubcoffee.com.
