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Business & Tech

Bites Nearby: Drive-Thru Java Joints

When in a hurry, there's nothing better than getting your Java jolt from a drive-thru window.

It seems as though only a handful of drive-thru coffeehouses exist in the Twin Cities, but there are two right here in our neck of woods that you won’t want to miss. And when you do find yourself with extra time, make sure to frequent the insides of these quaint establishments.

What’s not to like about ? The drive-thru offers fabulous brewed coffee, espresso drinks, blended coffee drinks, smoothies and fresh-baked goods. Once inside, you’ll feel as though you’ve just stepped into a cozy Parisian bistro.

According to owner Karen Mohs, one of the most popular signature drinks at Sati is the Turtle Mocha Latte ($3.90). Consisting of steamed milk, Sati’s own French-roasted espresso, thick and gooey caramel, special chocolate sauce and fresh whipping cream, it’s like drinking a liquid smooth version of a milk chocolate-covered, candied turtle.

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Eggnog latte lovers who only seem to get their fix during the holidays will love the Chai Tea Latte as an alternative ($3.65/med). It’s a mouthful of all those same eggnog-like cinnamon, clove and nutmeg characteristics, and the smooth hints of vanilla round it into a beautifully rich and flavorful drink.

One big reason you’ll want to head inside this European-style cafe—the fabulous crêpes! Take, for instance, the made-to-order Breakfast Crepe ($5.95). With your choice of a variety of fresh ingredients, this one consisted of farm-fresh scrambled eggs, shredded cheddar cheese, smoked ham and topped with crème fraîche (a version of sour cream). On the inside, it was the consistency of an omelet, but the outside was thin and delicate, with all the melt-in-your-mouth flavor qualities of the crêpe. Perfect for a late brunch or something different for dinner.

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A wide selection of made-to-order crėpes are available. Free Wi-Fi is available, though take note that there are time limits. Sati Coffee & Crêpes is located at 572 Commons Drive in Woodbury. For more information call 651-730-7284.

Espresso Donut

Whether you’re a commuter zipping in and out of ’s drive-thru lane for a daily treat and java or a local looking for a friendly neighborhood coffee shop, you’ll want to program this place into your GPS.

The fresh-baked donuts ($.95/donut) arrive weekdays at 5:30 a.m. from the Little Canada Donut Hut, but in this case, the early bird gets the worm, since most are gone by 9:30 a.m. Not to worry, Espresso Donut bakes up fresh scones ($1.90/scone), using McHattie’s Tea House recipes.

If you find yourself at Espresso Donut, you’re probably there for your daily cup of Joe, right? With free refills on Espresso Donut’s drip coffee ($1.85/sm), you’re in the right spot. 

Latte lovers will want to order the famous White Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Mocha ($3.95/sm). This mocha is bursting at the seams with espresso, red raspberry and chocolate flavors.

With warmer temperatures right around the corner, manager Ben Miller suggests trying the Jumping Monkey Frappe ($3.70/small). Essentially a grownup version of a chocolate-covered frozen banana, this blended caffeinated drink consists of chocolate, banana, espresso and ice. It’s a refreshing grab-and-go choice for breakfast or after a workout.

And, for moms, dads and tweens who make a stop at the nearby Washington County Oakdale Library or Carmike Movie Theaters, you'll love socializing and playing games in the kid corner at the front of the cafe.

Free Wi-Fi is available. Espresso Donut is located at 1055 Helmo Ave. N. in Oakdale. For more information call 651-735-0930.

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