What's New: Artifact Coffee

The über-cool, barn-chic — think rustic wood and stone — Artifact Coffee, 1500 Union Ave., 410-235-1881, capitalizes on the top-notch coffee service offered at big brother Woodberry Kitchen, and adds breakfast, lunch, and (soon) dinner to the mix. The baristas look like they’ve stepped out of a production of Oklahoma! with their farm dresses and Little-Boy-Blue shirts and trousers, but the service is professional and friendly. The pour-over coffee ($3.50) is a must. Hot water is poured over ground beans in vessels that are a cross between a funnel and coffee cup to coax the best flavor. The Counter Culture Haru coffee—an Ethiopian brew with lemon undertones—was delicious. The emphasis for all the offerings is sustainable and local with a commitment to small coffee farmers around the world. Head barista Allie Caran offers free coffee “cuppings” on Fridays. They’re like wine tastings for the caffeine crowd.