New Tradition Moto Cafe

For nearly a year I’ve been following moto coffee shops on Instagram dreaming of someday opening one of my own.  Finally for the first time, I was able to visit one in person - New Tradition in Worcester MA.  It was everything I hoped for - and beyond tasty too!!!

​Another amazing dream came true this weekend - I took ownership of a URAL Gear Up!  The previous owner purchased it from Alpha Cars in Boxborough MA. So he suggested we take it there for service.  So upon picking it up, we took it straight there.  And on the way back to the Cross Island Ferry, we were able to stop at New Traditions in Worcester MA.  Although Clayton thought I couldn’t possibly be taking him somewhere cool as we weaved through back alleys of downtown, when we pulled up, we both were instantly pumped by how cool the place is - an old factory turned garage/coffee shop/barber shop (YUP)!  

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The open doors made it airy and inviting (and COVID-free), the vintage moto decor felt like a hip museum, and the mix of punk/Indie music memorabilia was everything we could imagine in a cool, fun coffee shop.  It also had large windows into a very authentic motorcycle shop, and had upcycled racks full of riding accessories and apparel - so of course I couldn’t resist treating us both to a Mass Pike T.
  
But what stood out to me, was the friendly smile and patience of the gentleman behind the counter.  I’m going to go-out-on-a-limb here and say, perhaps, he is the owner. But he single-handedly took orders, made the most delicious lattes, stocked his own barista bar, and served it all up with a generous smile.  And with a line of people out the door, that was entirely impressive.  

Clayton, my coffee connoisseur, said the espresso was remarkable “nutty, earthy, balanced, and not-too-hot”. And we were both beyond satisfied with our vegan pastries from Pig Out Bakery and elated that we snagged the last two!  They were rich yet light without being too sweet, and filled with fresh jelly that Clay even decided to share with his pants (whoops!).  We agreed that we could have easily ate another - way to go Pig Out Bakery!
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Considering this is only about 70 miles from New London, CT, we look forward to exploring a “back roads” route to this inspiring place, and returning again soon - maybe with the Ural and my ridgeback in the sidecar!