This is my Anthem

By McKenna Snyder on January 24, 2013

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Now, I assume most of you know about Anthem Coffee and Tea. It is a new coffee company that opened Nov. 1, 2011 in downtown Puyallup. When I first noticed it consumed my beloved Froza, I was a little skeptical. But, the moment I walked in, I knew I would love it.

Upon walking in you will immediately feel the positive atmosphere radiating in the room. It is an atmosphere like no other and defiantly doesn't feel like your average coffee shop. Reason No. 1: Anthem plays loud, catchy music. You will not find nap-inducing, elevator music. Instead, Anthem plays music that I swear came right off one of my playlists. Florence + The Machine, Foster the People, Mumford and Sons - Anthem aims to keep me awake, just like a coffee shop should.

Reason No. 2 Anthem is different from other coffee shops: amazing service. Every time I visit I am greeted with a enthusiastic hello, no matter how many people are in the house. I have been there during the Puyallup Fair when it was wall-to-wall people. In fact, the line was outside the shop and down a block. Still, the staff kept its composure, smiled and made attempts to have quick chats with their customers.

Reason No. 3: It is very comforting and homey. For many people, it is like a home away from home. I see a lot of the same faces. The staff always makes new wanderers feel right at home.

The coffee? Well, Anthem has your standard blends - nothing too out of the ordinary, but they do serve a good brew. I am a picky coffee person. I find most coffee too watery with not enough flavor. Anthem passed my test on both its coffee and tea. Anthem's Espresso Macchiato and Marbled Cold Brew are crowd favorites. I also heard someone suggest the Pour Over.

If you are more of a tea person, then I would suggest the jasmine tea or the chai latte. "If you want something with a kick to it I think you should try the spice chai," claimed one of the staff. Kick, indeed. The sweet flavor of the chai turned into a "kick" down my throat. It was the perfect mix.

As morning time passes most high schoolers leave - minus the ones playing hookie - and are replaced by young adults holding business meetings or a small get-togethers with office friends.

That is also about the time the place gets less crowded and more comfortable, but still very lively. while still lively, it's one of the more quiet times of the day.

Then lunch time hits. That's when the good stuff happens. Anthem pulls out the pizzas. Besdies delicious pizzas, anthem also serves sweet potato fries and chicken wings.

You may also order wine and ale. They have happy hour weeknights starting at 7 .pm. and serve $4 house wine and $3.50 pints.

Below is a video of the first Anthem in Puyallup.