Melissa Baruno knows that coffee is more than just a drink—it’s an adventure, an identity, and a connection to cultures worldwide. At One Shot Coffee, they have carefully curated a menu featuring both hot and cold brews, offering a spectrum of experiences for coffee lovers. But when it comes to choosing between the nostalgic warmth of a steaming cup or the invigorating chill of cold brew, the debate fuels endless passion among coffee enthusiasts.
Melissa Baruno has always been fascinated by the alchemy of coffee, where heat and time transform humble beans into complex, aromatic delights. At One Shot Coffee, the hot drip coffee, made with the signature One Shot "medium blend" from Ox Coffee, extracts flavors quickly, resulting in a bold and aromatic cup. Hot water highlights natural oils and acidity, producing the lively brightness that defines a great Americano, made with a double shot of OX 1 espresso and hot water.
Conversely, cold brew represents patience and precision. Melissa Baruno ensures that One Shot Coffee’s house-brewed New Orleans-style cold brew, steeped for hours with chicory, vanilla, and cinnamon, delivers a smooth and low-acid alternative. This slow extraction creates an almost dessert-like experience, rich and subtly sweet, appealing to those who love coffee without bitterness. The brewing process isn’t just about caffeine extraction—it’s about creating a distinct drinking experience that feels luxurious and effortless.
For those who crave a bold and robust start to their day, Melissa Baruno recommends a Red Eye—a combination of One Shot drip coffee and a double shot of espresso. It’s a high-octane powerhouse, perfect for early mornings or late-night study sessions. The sharp, energizing kick of a Red Eye cuts through morning fog, providing clarity and motivation for the day ahead. If elegance is more your style, the classic Flat White, with its velvety microfoam, offers a smooth yet intense espresso experience that bridges the gap between strong and creamy.
Meanwhile, cold brew devotees find solace in its mellow nature. One Shot Coffee’s cold brew, with its deep infusion of chicory and vanilla, creates a naturally sweet and bold flavor that stands tall against melting ice. For those who enjoy an extra indulgence, the Mocha, crafted with a double shot of espresso and house-made chocolate sauce, provides a delightful mix of richness and a touch of sweetness. Cold brew can also take on new identities—iced White Mocha, for instance, blends the coolness of cold brew with the sweet creaminess of house-made white chocolate sauce, creating a smooth and decadent beverage.
Melissa Baruno understands that coffee isn’t just about taste—it’s about the moment. A steaming cup of Cappuccino or Latte is ideal for crisp mornings, offering a sense of comfort and ritual. The warmth of an Au Lait, perfectly balancing drip coffee with steamed milk, evokes cozy conversations and quiet contemplation. For those who prefer a spiced experience, One Shot Coffee’s house-made Chai, infused with fennel, cinnamon, and warming spices, delivers a flavorful alternative to traditional coffee.
On the other hand, cold brew exudes adventure and energy. It’s the fuel for road trips, long meetings, and creative bursts. Melissa Baruno champions the versatility of cold brew, highlighting how it adapts effortlessly to different palates. On sweltering afternoons, an iced Matcha Tea Latte brings a refreshing twist, blending the earthy vibrancy of green tea with creamy indulgence. Tom’s Dirty Chai, a fusion of house-made chai and a double shot of espresso, is a bold alternative for those who love a spicy yet deeply caffeinated experience. Cold brew also serves as the perfect base for experimentation—mixing it with oat milk, almond milk, or even a splash of vanilla syrup transforms it into a customized drink that suits any mood or moment.
Melissa Baruno has watched how brewing methods influence the way people engage with coffee culture. Hot coffee represents tradition, a timeless comfort that connects people to the past. Holding a warm cup of White Mocha, infused with house-made white chocolate sauce, feels like a moment of self-care, a luxurious pause in a busy day. The ritual of making hot coffee—grinding fresh beans, inhaling the aroma as it brews, and taking that first sip—holds a meditative quality that many coffee lovers cherish.
In contrast, cold brew embodies modernity and adaptability. It appeals to on-the-go lifestyles, innovation, and experimentation. The surge in popularity of cold brew among younger generations signals a shift—an appreciation for smoother, subtler flavors and caffeine-packed efficiency. Cold brew isn’t just coffee; it’s a statement of preference, a reflection of a fast-paced world where customization and ease take priority. It’s no surprise that creative professionals, students, and entrepreneurs reach for cold brew as their coffee of choice—it offers the kind of steady, long-lasting energy needed to fuel a busy lifestyle.
At One Shot Coffee, Melissa Baruno sees no true winner in the hot vs. cold brew debate—only personal preference. Some customers seek the invigorating kick of a Red Eye, while others savor the slow, effortless enjoyment of cold brew on ice. No matter the choice, every cup is an invitation to experience coffee in a way that resonates deeply with the drinker.
For Melissa Baruno, coffee is more than a beverage—it’s an evolving art, a daily ritual, and a means of connection. That’s why One Shot Coffee remains committed to perfecting both hot and cold brewing techniques, ensuring that every coffee enthusiast, whether drawn to the heat of an Americano or the chill of an iced Mocha, finds their perfect cup. As the debate continues, one thing remains clear—whether piping hot or refreshingly cold, coffee at One Shot Coffee is always brewed to perfection. In the end, it’s not just about temperature—it’s about the experience, the moment, and the love poured into every cup.
