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| - I love Loop.
I look forward to Fridays every week, because in my house, Friday is Loop Day. It's not necessarily the only day we go, but it is the day if the week we always go.
And what a way to start the day. Friendly staff (for the most part, and especially super-personable Mike), the fragrance of house-roasted beans popping in the front corner, and -- in my opinion -- a cup of the best coffee in Cleveland. (Sorry, Phoenix.)
If it's hot out, the iced coffee is a must-try. Made with toddy, super strong but never bitter.
I've also had several of the hot coffees, iced teas, and espresso/lattes, and everything has been excellent. The staff is knowledgeable about what they're selling, so if you have questions about what to choose, don't be afraid to ask. (I once requested hot tea, tasty with caffeine when sick and was treated with a very nice English breakfast tea.)
Oh, and at least for a time, they have bacon Torani syrup. Try a bacon-almond latte, and you can thank me later.
Loop also sells records and CDs, and overall the selection is impressive. You won't find every album you're looking for, but you you will find some off-the-beaten track, quality tunes. My favorite thing about the music collection is that some albums have mini reviews (by the staff) taped to them. I'm typically an MP3 girl, but I've bought several CDs from Loop just because they're there, and I like the place.
Some of the used records are a bit scratched, so you have to look at them carefully, but you can get some great deals. For example, I picked up a mint-condition Men At Work record for $1.
In addition to all of the above, Loop also displays and sells art, and sells high-quality coffee gadgets/mugs/etc. And they have a DJ on Friday nights.
All in all, it's a great place, with a cool vibe. I highly recommend it.
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