The Best Coffee in BR is Actually in Ascension
Like a lot of moms I’m often in need of caffeine on a regular basis and I usually meet that need with coffee. I worked as a barista in my college days and I appreciate good coffee. I’ve bought a bunch of coffee accessories and extras and found ways to save by making coffee at home. I’m not opposed to going out to a shop and buying a coffee. Sometimes it is exactly what I need. It gives me my caffeine fix without the work. I also really love to support local businesses and I’ve found some of the best coffee in Baton Rouge. But it’s not actually in Baton Rouge, it’s in Ascension Parish. As an added bonus, these places are locally owned and that makes all of the difference.
At Home
I have a slight problem. I’ve had the best coffee, and it has all but ruined other coffee for me. I got it from Ascension Roasting Company. Located in an unassuming, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it spot at the end of a strip mall on Hwy 42 in Prairieville, Ascension Roasting Company is selling some of the best coffee in our area! As the name implies, they are roasting the coffee beans and selling it out of the roastery. This isn’t a café, or a coffee shop, but you can purchase high quality, locally roasted coffee beans or cold brew.
Originally, my husband and I were drawn to them for their cold brew concentrate after seeing a post on social media. They sell the cold brew by the half-gallon and it is well worth it. Now we know we will always have a quality cup of cold brew coffee when we need it. When they’re open to the public, typically on Saturday mornings, they also sell pour overs and a few specialty cold brew coffee options. Don’t be afraid of whole bean coffee. The owners of Ascension Roasting Company are kind and helpful and will gladly grind the beans for you. That best cup of coffee I mentioned – I actually made it at home. But the freshly roasted and ground coffee made a huge difference. Check them out for all of your home-brewing coffee needs. For location and hours, follow them on socials.
On the Road
Do you prefer a coffee shop? Want someone else to make the coffee for you? Looking for a great local coffee shop with a great atmosphere? Check out Mais la Coffee and Tea Bar in St. Amant.
The first time I stepped inside of Mais la Coffee and Tea Bar I thought this is what a coffee shop should be. It felt cozy, warm and welcoming. There were multiple areas for seating, tables, chairs, sofas, nooks and places for groups to gather or for private conversations. 
The spots are perfect for people watching or working. The staff were incredibly kind and the coffee was excellent. They offer fun seasonal beverages along with coffee shop staples. The staff was ready and willing to make recommendations and didn’t mind an alteration or two. I soon started following them on social media and learned about special events and special hours.
