Trying to decide what to order at Spencer’s Coffee, Bowling Green’s oldest and most iconic cafe, can be a bit intimidating. Sure, the menu offers plenty of choices, but there’s also a whole world of drinks beyond what’s listed on the menu, and many of these options are ones only hardcore Spencer’s regulars know about.
To get the inside scoop, we went behind the scenes and asked Spencer’s owner Justin Shepherd for a few of his customers’ favorite off-the-menu recommendations. Order one of these next time you head to Spencer’s to finish some homework or meet up with a friend. You’ll look like a true local when you do.
London Fog
The London Fog, a common “off the menu” drink ordered in cafes everywhere, is simply black tea and steamed milk. Perfect for cold, rainy days or evenings when you want a warm drink with slightly less caffeine, this drink will transport your taste buds to the gray streets of London at first sip. You may also hear it referred to as an Earl Grey latte.
Samoa Mocha
What’s better than Girl Scout cookie season? This drink! Enjoy the flavors of this favorite cookie all year long with Spencer’s signature Samoa Mocha. It drinks like a mocha and tastes like a Samoa.
Huckleberry Ben
Named after the barista who created it, a Huckleberry Ben blends iced tea, lemonade and sparkling water with flavors of lavender and blackberry. It’s a truly refreshing drink, perfect for a warm spring or summer afternoon.
Honey Badger
Some like it strong, and some like it sweet. Luckily for you, you can get both when you order this drink. Real honey, a splash of vanilla and a dash of cinnamon spice up Spencer’s standard latte and will leave you wanting more.
Cortado
A favorite of many, this drink actually is on the menu at Spencer’s, but it’s too good not to include on this list. A cortado comes in a 5-ounce rocks glass, consisting of roughly equal amounts of espresso and warm milk. It’s a dense drink that will give you the kick of caffeine you need.
One of these drinks is bound to be your new favorite, but don’t just take our word for it. Stop by Spencer’s, located at 915 College Street in Bowling Green, to try them out for yourself.
Their doors are open on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 7 p.m. And you can keep up with the latest drinks and goings-on at Spencer’s by following their Instagram account, @spencersbg.