The lights are on and we are home! The first few months were intense, but Mario and I are proud to say: “Banana Dang is officially OPEN” (first day of business was Monday, Nov. 19).
Already we’ve had a steady flow of curious onlookers—mostly internationals (from Germany, Italy, France), New Yorkers and local American ex-pats—enjoying some espressos and Dang-styled coffees and smoothies. The most exciting part was a few ordered straight shots...and you know how much Mario loves dialing in our La Marzocco! I had Vietnamese Coffee requests already and served it both hot and iced. The smoothies that seems to be getting the most attention are the "Green Tea Dang" and the "Nutty Dang." Our organic teas have also peaked the interest of a few locals, especially the appropriately titled “Chocolate Monkey."
The initial big draw seems to be our Internet offerings (not just WiFi—but actual PC computers for people to get on and check their Email).
Living on the island has also enabled us to offer the best Puerto Rican coffees—mostly mild in taste with chocolate undertones and caramel like flavor. Don’t be fooled with coffee beans grown in third world countries! We proudly carry our house coffee Encantos de Puerto Rico along with Hacienda San Pedro, Yauco Selecto and Cafe Rico Seleccion Especial.
Following the “Espresso Vivace” method—our goal with each cup is to reach the ideal 18-25 second-timed double-shots. But aside from our obsession with espresso, we do have a soft spot for our favorite brewing method—the French Press. We feel it offers a better coffee experience than an over-the-counter brewer (we don't own a Bunn Brewer—how "Third Wave" of us). For iced coffees, we soak fresh grounds overnight, pour it through a filter in the AM and then swirl it with condensed milk. Our customers say it’s beautifully sweet!
Our online and guerilla marketing will launch in a few weeks. Your advice and ideas are gratefully accepted. Please keep them coming and visit us soon...Con Amor, Mario y T2
11 comments:
Congratulations on the opening! The place looks amazing and I am dying to try one of Mario's "made with passion" espressos. Your adventures are an inspiration.
woohoo!!!! i'd like to place an order please... house coffee- to go (so that i can walk around town dancing with the cup in hand and telling folks about BD, ya know what i'm saying?!?) congrats!
Hey! Your sign says: "Internet Smoothies"
I didn't know you could do that?
J/K
Congrats!
Felicidades!!!!!!!!!!! Wow, what a triumph, you guys!! Hopefully, one day, our growing family can come to surf, chuckle, and get some delicious smoothies!! We are so happy for you. Again, sorry we had to miss you at your Bon Voyage party.
Muy bien! Banana Dang looks fantastic from the photos, and its owners couldn't be more charming and wonderful. Happy holidays to you both!
The girls love to see the pictures. Cassie wants to see you riding one of those big waves. Happy Holidays and good selling!!!
Congratulations t2, it sounds awesome! you're going to be the Pinkberry of Puerto Rico. I hope I can visit someday and stand in the 2 hour line for some organic tea.
Bryan C.
Congratulations on your opening. Banana Dang looks incredible! I only wish we had one in San Diego. Take a little time to enjoy the waves. Happy Holidays!
Congrats, T2 & Mario! So thrilled that you are up and running. You're right on about the french press -- that's the way to do it. Nice work on that latte design, too! Happy holidays!
Mario and T2, tonight a little bitty rain fell so the coquies are having a symphony.
We shall see Wed. with some of our Sandrafarms.com coffee on our way to Alaska.
Please link with our website since I love your espresso; you know which one!
Great pictures about you all and Rincon! Israel and Sandra
I was looking through your site and have a suggestion for you, Sandra.
The site is well done, but I think it would benefit from a Q&A. I'm sure the coffee industry is just as any other. It has interesting aspects in which the public may be interested.
Why not consider such a feature?
Best of luck.
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