Cheap Eats - Danneman’s brings independent coffee back to Edgewood Avenue

Danneman’s coffee house (466 Edgewood Ave., 404-380-1393, www.dannemans.com), has opened in the old Javaology space, joining the stampede of Edgewood Avenue newcomers. The charming space is even more precious than its predecessor.

Owner Joe Stewardson and his business partner, Kate Pedrick, enlisted the help of designers Judi Knight and Grant Henry to give new life to the historic former home of Danneman’s Market, whose rusted metal sign is wrapped around the counter. The homey space is decked out in a cheerful hodgepodge of antique knickknacks, such as jars filled with pencils for sale. An expansive, light-filled room located up the back stairs sports a row of reclaimed lab tables marked up with schoolhouse-style graffiti, window-flanked nooks, and off-white retro-modern couches. It’s the perfect location for telecommuters seeking a peaceful oasis replete with complimentary Wi-Fi and groovy tunes.

Danneman’s serves strong micro-roast coffees from Beanealogy, mercifully labeled small to large instead of that ridiculous “Venti” terminology. An assortment of baked goods – such as the dreamy cream-filled chocolate cupcakes with fudge frosting ($1.25), nutty slabs of zucchini bread ($2) and “Graham cracker cookies of delight” ($3) – is thoughtfully sourced from local bakers. And homemade savory items including a massive sandwich of turkey, sliced Asian pears, cheddar cheese, peppery arugula and mayonnaise on a multigrain baguette ($7 for the sandwich, chips and beverage) provide more than enough brain food as you pound away on the keyboard.

-- Jennifer Zyman