Uncommon Grounds in Saugatuck

I was in Saugatuck, Michigan, the other day and ventured into a local coffee shop -- Uncommon Grounds.

I'm a bit of a coffee snob, so I was delighted to find their coffee selection fulfilling my requirements.

But it is perhaps their perspective on coffee that I most appreciated.  They partner with coffee farmers around the world, buying direct to ensure fair treatment and compensation, and then roast their own beans.

The coffee enhancements are from ethical sources too.  This is the first coffee shop I have visited that intentionally uses dairy products from pastured cows.

If you've ever sought out nutritional information on dairy products, you know that pastured cows produce a nutritionally superior product.   As a bonus, the cows themselves get to live the life of a cow rather than merely a commodity producer.

Uncommon Grounds also serves a variety of teas, fresh juices and smoothies.  They offer delicious pastries from their bakery that include vegetarian and gluten-free options and a daily soup.

If you're near Saugatuck, a resort town on the shore of Lake Michigan, you deserve a trip to a great coffee spot located in the heart of the small town.

Pizza Fusion

Is there a Pizza Fusion near you?

Pizza is one of the most desired foods by Americans.  I can't tell you how many times I have thought about where the ingredients on my pizza come from when I consume a slice from XYZ company.

Like a lot of restaurants, most pizza places are most concerned about the bottom line.  They offer a lot of food at the cheapest price and highest margin.  And factory farms fit neatly into this equation.

I have been looking at a few business models/opportunities that match my interests and came across Pizza Fusion last week.  The nearest one is quite a distance away, but I like their business model and based on the online reviews, many like the food.

Here is what they serve:

• Various traditional and unique flavor pizzas with organic ingredients
• Vegan, Vegetarian, and Gluten-Free pizza options
• They serve a nice selection of organic wine and beer
• A variety of salads and a few sandwiches
• A selection of appetizers
• Natural colas and teas
• A couple of desserts

Other than quality, local (as much as possible) and organic ingredients, here is why I like their concept and mission:

• The person who makes the pizza signs his/her name on top of the box (a matter of pride)
• The buyer can return the box for recycling and a $.25 credit
• The empty glass drink bottles are used to create the counter tops for new stores
• The buildings they lease/buy are LEED certified (think recycled jeans as insulation)
• The pizzas are delivered by hybrid vehicles
• The pizza oven can make up to 18 pizzas with one heat source
• The pizza oven's heat is used to heat the water
• All of the electricity is derived from wind power sources
• And my favorite -- they have kids organic classes every third Saturday morning of the month

If you've eaten at a Pizza Fusion, let us know what you liked.  If you like the concept, let us know why?  And if you think it would be welcomed in West Michigan, I want to hear from you too!