ST. Ali update - the proof IS in the beans

With ST. Ali, the proof IS the beans. We returned last weekend for breakfast and coffee. The sound of the industrial size coffee machines working and the smell of beautifully made coffee woke our senses as soon as we walked in the door. Friendly staff greeted and seated us at the large shared table within five minutes of us arriving; now that is what I call service! The Menu; seemed simple yet a little bit out of the ordinary. We ordered the classic fried eggs with bacon and home made baked beans cooked in sage with a hint of spice. "Coffee up!" yelled the barista, and our coffee arrived. The verdict? As the Italian would say "Cosi Cosi", so-so because we had very high expectations coming to a place that earned its title as the institution for great coffee. Our meal was good but lack the gusto we seek. BUT all is not lost, the "Champion" coffee beans we bought the week before was the highlight of our Monday morning. Strong, full of depth and gusto, a definite purchase when we next visit ST. Ali.