Blue Tile Coffee is now open at 3663 Washington Ave. The cafe is the project of owner, Jonathan Elkins, who seeks to place its focus on two things: coffee and tacos.
In this social media age, it’s rare to see a new bar, cafe, or small shop open that doesn’t feature one cheeky neon sign or otherwise tailor-made backdrop for selfies.
Not knocking it, mind you. Design-forward establishments do well creating atmosphere, aesthetic, and vibes – all of which serve to entice customers. But for Jonathan Elkins, its the local product that gets the spotlight.
Elkins told the Houston Chronicle that he considers Blue Tile Coffee the “anti-Instagram” cafe; void of eclectic lighting fixtures, lush greenery, and/or colorful installations, the cafe features a more natural look.
Its floor-to-ceiling windows, earth tones, and vintage blue tiled motif – a reference to the city’s original street markers – all serve to foster a comfortable, laid-back atmosphere.
As mentioned, however, the real focus is on the product. In addition to an assortment of coffees (using locally sourced roasted coffee beans), Blue Tile champions its taco selection.
Here, visitors will find a handful of breakfast taco options. Though limited in quantity – chorizo & potatoes, bacon & egg, and vegetarian – the tacos make up for in quality.
“It’s a menu of simple things done really, really well,” said Julio Moreno, formerly of Cochinita, now at Blue Tile.
Elsewhere on the menu, visitors will be able to enjoy house made pastries as well as croissants courtesy of Magnol Bakery.
Eventually, Blue Tile will also add beer, wine, and a taco lunch menu.
Blue Tile Coffee is located at 3663 Washington Ave. next to HEB and is now open to the public.