Howlin' Hounds Coffee

Location: 712 S. 16th St. - Downtown
Listening to: One More Cup Of Coffee - The White Stripes

Not sure how to classify this visit. Second time as a coffeeshop, fourth time as an art space. Formerly known as the Diamond Bar on 16th, Howlin' Hounds Coffee is a venue for all sorts. I originally attended a couple of art/dj shows as it was undergoing renovations. Upon my most recent visit, I was delighted to see all the changes... glistening hardwood floors and a long bar with soda fountain stools.  Raw brick walls add a coziness to the atmosphere.

Howlin' Hounds Coffee is owned and operated by Greg and his two canines, Lady, a gentle yellow lab, and Buddy, a friendly dark golden retriever. Leashed dogs are allowed to lounge about the space as their owners enjoy their beverages or make use of the free wi-fi.

The coffee brewed here is from a local roaster, The Bean Smith. Greg informed me that soon he will be importing award-winning organic espresso from "Gimme! Coffee" just outside Ithaca, New York. Customers will be able to choose between the two roasters when ordering.

Offerings
From con pannas to Caramel Sunday Lattes to passion fruit Italian sodas, Howlin' Hounds serves a little bit of everything. They offer brewed coffee, espresso drinks, hot and cold teas, Jones soda, and even oatmeal or pastries from local bakeries. I appreciate the variety of dairy and dairy alternatives, which is surprisingly rare in Omaha. I had a Black & White Mocha with almond milk, and it was delicious! The almond milk gave it a light, nutty flavor, and the use of Ghirardelli syrups ensured my drink was not too cloying.

I must say, I was incredibly impressed when Greg remembered me after one visit. He even remembered Dustin's "usual" order after only two visits. How can I not recommend this place after getting such exemplary service! We stayed and chatted with the owner for a good hour or so before heading off to dinner. Great experiences all around.

Aside from coffee and a place to cool your jets, Howlin' Hounds offers a space to display local talent. Omaha artist Gerard Pefung's mural can be seen all along the back wall of the shop, which doubled as a dance floor during my last visit :) Council Bluffs artist Trés Johnson has his work on display throughout the rest of the building. His show is titled "Far Gone and Out" and I was excited to purchase a few pieces for myself.

Please, go check this place out and let me know what you think in the comments! You can also "like" Howlin' Hounds Coffee on Facebook.