By TR Robertson
“Coffee, the favorite drink of the civilized world” Thomas Jefferson
There are a few other drinks that qualify with Thomas Jefferson’s quote, but millions of people cannot be wrong as they have their favorite cup of coffee in the morning and throughout the day. New coffee bar owners Ray Orate and John Herrmann can attest to their love of coffee as they have taken their years of roasting and brewing coffee to opening their own coffee bar in the heart of downtown Carlsbad. Interim Coffee is located in the back of the large parking lot on Garfield, directly behind Las Olas Mexican Restaurant.
“To me, the smell of fresh-made coffee is one of the greatest inventions” Hugh Jackman
Ray and John have over 12 years of experience in the coffee business, including work at Zumbar Coffee in the Sorrento Valley train station and at Global coffee importers. They searched long and hard for a perfect location and stumbled on the spot in the parking lot off Garfield. The location is the former home of Sarah’s Hair Style, which shut down during the height of the COVID pandemic in 2020. Their business is a labor of love with many hours put in redesigning the interior and adding a new look to the outside patio area. Ray’s father Jim helped in the work getting the spot ready to open, serving their first cup on July 25th.
“Coffee smells like freshly ground heaven.” Jessi Lane Adams
Ray and John roast and brew all their coffee selections, continually adding new blends. Their location is close to numerous vacation homes and just a short walk to the beach. Access to the coffee bar can also be found from Carlsbad Blvd. with two walkways on each side of Las Olas and surrounding businesses. The large parking lot, off Garfield, also make for a great meeting place for motorcyclists, bikers, car clubs and anyone who wants a great cup of coffee. Ray spoke about his desire to create a place where those stopping by could “curate classic philosophies,” making the coffee bar a spot where people could meet up, have a great cup of coffee as they shared stories and conversation and move on to having an exciting day. Ray referred to possibly calling the coffee bar The Coffee Lot, in honor of the easy access to their business and a gathering spot. The coffee bar also has a good selection of tea and offers some pastry items and vegan trail mix. They are looking into adding more snack items, but for now their primary concern is brewing the best cup of coffee in the Carlsbad area. They also sell their coffee in 12 oz. blends and 5 lb. bulk bags.
“Coffee is a language in itself.” Jackie Chan
Ray and John offer a number of selections for coffee aficionados to try. They are currently serving Ethiopia Gedob Beriti, Decaf Peru made with the Swiss Water process, The classic (their darkest roast), the Rocksteady Blend (a mix), Live Wire (beans from Peru and Colombia) and the Costa Rica Hacienda Sonora. I had their Rocksteady Blend, and it was delicious. All their syrups used to flavor coffee for patrons are homemade and they bring in their own water, not using tap water. They will tailor their coffees to meet their customers needs and flavors. Inside the coffee bar patrons will notice numerous vintage coffee memorabilia and knickknacks, all for sale, including pictures on the wall. They plan on possible adding vintage clothing and records as well as using the parking lot for events like classic car shows.
“I never laugh until I’ve had my coffee.” Clark Gable
Ever since coffee was first roasted, brewed, and served in 15th century Yemen, people around the world have enjoyed well made coffee. Interim Expresso and Coffee Bar is a placed you will find delicious coffee or tea, friendly and courteous people that like to tell you about their product and a spot to begin your morning (they also have hot cocoa). The location is easy to locate, and you will find a place to relax before you begin your busy day or a place to pick up a cup to go. Stop in an say good morning to Ray, John, or Fallon and have a cup. Interim is open Tuesday thru Sunday from 7 am until 2 pm. More information about their blends at www.interimcoffee.com.
“We want to do a lot of stuff. We’re not in great shape. We didn’t get a good night’s sleep. We’re a little depressed. Coffee solves all those problems in one delightful little cup.” Jerry Seinfeld
