Anchor Island Coffee is located on the southeast corner of 41st and Troost. Serving specialty coffees and drinks, its menu is eclectic and there is something for everyone. One of my favorites is the Horchata Latte—a blend of espresso, vanilla, rice milk, and cinnamon. For the non-coffee drinkers, there is an array of fun drinks, including riffs on non-alcoholic palomas and bellinis, and a variety of tea-based beverages.

Owners Armando Vasquez and Mike Hastings opened Anchor Island in 2020, initially focusing on serving tropical-themed coffee drinks and beverages. They quickly realized the neighborhood needed more food service options, and expanded their menu to include freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items. From acai bowls to breakfast burritos, French toast and tuna melts, the food is fresh, delicious, and prepared to order. My personal favorite is the Chori Papa burrito, made with chorizo, potatoes, spinach, cheese, and sour cream wrapped into a tortilla, grilled, and served with spicy avocado salsa. If you’re not feeling the burrito, you can get it as a bowl, sans the tortilla.

Come for the delicious food and drinks and stay for the chill environment and great service. Whether you are working remotely or having a coffee meeting, the space is sure to meet your needs. The vibe is inclusive, fun, and inviting, with a huge octopus mural on the wall, fresh plants, chill music, and a steady flow of customers coming and going. There is seating downstairs and upstairs and a table for two out front on the sidewalk under the Progress Pride Flag—a symbol of inclusivity and representation.

Anchor Island is a neighborhood coffee shop open to all.

Featured in the June 10, 2023 issue of The Independent.
By Jessica James