Lurphy DePalma Larry Halstead is a tech nerd with an affinity for arts & sports. Reppin' the hard streets of South Asheville for almost 15 years. He's made this city home and has vowed to never stop fighting to keep it as weird & unique as possible.







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Zagat picked only one don’t-miss shop per state, creating a 50-venue slideshow showcasing top coffeeshops in all 50 states. It’s pick for N.C. is Firestorm Cafe and Books, an anarchist, employee-owned coffeeshop and bookstore.

From the Zagat intro:

Take a deep breath, America – do you smell that? It’s not the smell of amber waves of grain, it’s the mouthwatering aroma of coffee brewing at some of the country’s coolest roasters, tasting rooms and coffee bars. Unlike some regional favorites, the country’s caffeine fixation is spread far and wide. From a slow bar with a siphon brewer in Alaska to a Miami-based roaster that has direct ties to a Colombian farm, there’s a place in every state where you can get a great cup of joe. Click through the slide show for our cross-country tour of 50 states’ notable coffee shops (plus one in DC), and let us know which java joints you pledge allegiance to in the comments.

About Firestorm:

Taking on the concept of being worker owned, this activist-heavy coffee shop in Ashville has successfully been caffeinating the small town since 2008. They serve organic, fair trade coffee, Eco-Prima tea and fun espresso drinks like a coconut-cream breve made with coconut milk and a maple latte with pure maple syrup. Plus, they offer plenty of fresh-baked goods, bagels with the works, soups, salads and wraps, many of which are vegan. Naturally, like any good independent shop, they also host film screenings, fund-raisers, book readings, workshops and other events. 48 Commerce St., Ashville, NC; 828-255-8115

The maple latte’s pretty damn good, as are the cupcakes. Interesting selection of books and mags as well.

Zagat link.

Firestorm website