No Pun for This One Because “Aqus” Isn’t in the Dictionary

Aqus Cafe is the type of cafe you visit to discuss philosophical ideas (I once heard a group of old men discussing the meaning of life) or study for your anatomy exam, where you write in your journal about the long week you’ve had or sit on the patio outside and catch up with friends you haven't seen in far too long—it’s all of these things because it’s flexible and accommodating enough for people from all walks of life to enjoy. Aqus is so alt and granola (in the best way)—I just adore it! By far, it's one of the most accepting and comfortable restaurant environments I’ve ever experienced, and I think that’s why it has so many loyal fans.

I went with my dad for breakfast on Friday and was surprised by how many people were in there. I always wonder what everyone in Petaluma does for work. Does everyone work from home or have non-conventional work schedules? How are there always so many people out and about for breakfast and brunch during the week? How do I make this my lifestyle? My dad and I don’t count in this mix because we’re both full-time students… Maybe everyone else is too. Unlikely. Anyways, it was very busy in there.

I’m not usually one to get avocado toast at restaurants because, hello, I can make that myself, but the bread that’s at Aqus is superb. I’m assuming it’s sourdough because of how flakey and crunchy-but-not-in-a-bad-way it is. As the biggest hater of croutons and all things crunchy I know, I’m surprised by how much I love their bread. Aqus’ version of Avocado Toast has served as my inspiration for my own homemade version, loaded with with pumpkin seeds, olive oil and a pinch of salt. Tasty!

I also ordered an iced Lavender Latte with oat milk *smacks lips* and it’s no surprise that Aqus is one of the first restaurants in the area catching onto the oat trend. I’m so thankful! A lot of people have told me that they can’t stand almond milk in their coffee because of its ‘cardboardy’ flavor so they prefer soy instead, but I am a full-blown soy hater. Say it loud and say it proud: I’d rather not even order the drink if soy is offered as the only alternative milk option.

I’m not going to go off on a rant about the soy controversy for two reasons: People will yell at me, and the bottom line is that I just don’t like how it tastes. That being said… Oat milk is a blessing to the dairy-free world of coffee lovers. Thank you, Aqus!

Back to the story: My dad ordered the Bacon and Egg McMuffin, far superior to the McDonalds version I presume, which he said was “crispy and flavorful”. We both are lovers of hot sauce so we slathered our breakfast in F.A. Nino’s (not sure what flavor) but it was real good. My dad and I agree that Aqus’ atmosphere is not too loud and very easy to converse, which is why it’s so pleasant.

To contrast with the mellow vibe that Aqus usually gives off, they also regularly host local performers. Somehow I have never been to a live event there, but I know that they attract a sizable crowd. Another thing I love is that they are constantly rotating through artwork made by local artists and students alike, so practically anyone with a passion for creating is able to showcase their work to a larger audience than just their mom who is obliged to tell them that what they've created is "so beautiful".

My advice is: When looking for somewhere to kick up your feet, hangout a while, and get to know your Petaluma, look no further than Aqus Cafe which is nothing less than a down-to-earth, truly local neighborhood restaurant. You'll likely run into many people you know and somehow time will slip away, but that's the beauty of getting lost in the moment and enjoying in the the present.

Aqus is waiting with open arms and all it's waiting for is YOU!