Five coffee drinks that are anything but usual 

It's the time of year when energy is hard to come by. Snow flurries and frigid temps make "Netflix and chill" more tempting than usual. What's a busy Rochesterian to do? Pick up one of these unique coffee drinks. They'll jumpstart your brain and keep it buzzing with flavors that give you something to think about.

And what's your go-to drink when you're looking for something a little special? Tell us in this article's comment section at rochestercitynewspaper.com.

• PHOTO BY MARK CHAMBERLIN
• The workers at Joe Bean drop a shot of espresso into a half pint of porter for its 'Spro Bomb.

'Spro Bomb at Joe Bean

1344 UNIVERSITY AVENUE

319-5279; JOEBEANROASTERS.COM

$7, OR $5 HAPPY HOUR SPECIAL 5 P.M. – 7 P.M. DAILY

Sometimes when boredom strikes, beautiful things happen. That's how the 'Spro Bomb – a shot of espresso dropped in a half pint of beer – was born, according to the guys at Joe Bean. Like sake bombs and other such drinks, this one is best when chugged in one straight shot, but its rich and dark flavors make it just fine to sip and savor. Start your night out with one of these. It's the perfect combination of uppers and downers, and you'll have the whole bar cheering you on as you drink.

• PHOTO BY MARK CHAMBERLIN
• The Aztec "Mocha" at Java's adds cinnamon and chilies for a spicy kick.

Aztec "Mocha" at Java's

16 GIBBS STREET

232-4820; JAVASCAFE.COM

$4.50

Starbucks, step aside – this is not your mama's mocha. The velvety richness of dark chocolate is expertly cut with the spice of cinnamon and chilies. Add the bitter caffeine boost of espresso, and you've got a drink that wakes up both your brain and your taste buds. Unlike most chocolate drinks, the Aztec Mocha isn't overly sweet, and it's therefore perfect to pair with one of Java's new vegan and flourless pastries.

The Shakerato at Press Coffee

480 E. MAIN STREET

764-1284 | NEWYORKPRESSCOFFEE.COM

$3.50

There are some mornings when a regular cup of coffee won't get the job done. You need something a little (or maybe a lot) more powerful. That's where the Shakerato comes in. Popular in Rome, Press Coffee's spin on this Italian drink contains a whopping four shots of espresso shaken vigorously with sugar and ice. The shaking creates a thick, refreshing "crema," or cream on top. Stop in for one of these when a sweet shock to your system trumps your penchant for warm sips.

• PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMSON
• Dark Horse Coffee adds an orange slice and cranberry flavoring for a tangy latte.

Cranberry and orange latte at Dark Horse Coffee

247 N. GOODMAN STREET B120 (IN VILLAGE GATE)

730-8035 | DARKHORSECOFFEE.NET

$3.85

While most places are serving up peppermint and pumpkin, Dark Horse turns to a more obscure combination of holiday ingredients for this seasonal offering. This sweet and tangy latte is served with a full orange slice on top, which adds a touch of juicy freshness to its bright flavors. Zesty orange and pucker-worthy cranberry are complimented by the creamy lightness of frothed milk. My advice? Add a touch of cinnamon for some extra zing.

Canadiano at Starry Nites Café

696 UNIVERSITY AVENUE

271-2630 | STARRYNITESCAFE.COM

$2.75

This clever twist on an Americano is a cheeky homage to our friends to the north. The traditional, slightly bitter combination of espresso and hot water is given a sugary boost with a few squeezes of maple syrup. The sappy sweetener is a smooth, sticky alternative to white sugar and gives the drink a little more body. Hard workers with a sweet tooth rejoice – the Canadiano is a quick way to both warm and perk up, while honoring your cravings for sweetness. Pretty great, eh?

Rochester coffee | Joe Bean | Java's | Press Coffee | Dark Horse Coffee | Starry Nites Café