Way back in once upon a time time, I saw my blogger friend Meghann, from Meals and Miles, write a blog post about this amazing coffee shop in South Tampa. It was the first time I’d heard of Jet City, and I must admit, I was just a *tad* jealous of all of the scrumptious looking things she got to try (like the Cafe Borgia!). 

As time went on, I forgot about the post, forgot about Jet City, and forgot what a “Borgia” even was. I never made it down to check the place out, and continued dividing my coffee adventures between home and chain shoppes. 

Until…. that glorious day…. when I read in the Seminole Heights Patch….that Jet City Espresso…. planned to open up another location…. IN MY LITTLE NEIGHBORHOOD!

When I found out that it would be just steps away from my home and work, I kissed the ‘Bucks farewell and decided to go local for the rest of my coffee days. Jessica, the owner of both locations, isn’t new to the coffee business. She is a true coffee entrepreneur, having shops both in Tampa and in Seattle.

It’s easy to miss Jet City as you’re traveling along Florida Avenue. At first glance, it’s just another bungalow, until your eye catches the neon sign indicating you’ve reached coffee mecca. There is ample parking in two back lots, and entrances on either side of the house.

When you first walk in, you’re greeted by the scents of freshly brewed Seattle’s best coffee and espresso, cozy tables, chairs and couches, music playing over head (and sometimes in person!), and other traditional Seminole Heights touches, like a fireplace, real wooden floors and natural light from surrounding windows. You’re also guaranteed to recieve a friendly, personal greeting from behind the counter, as everyone always makes the extra effort to make you feel as though you’re walking into their own homes.

Pastries like scones, muffins, cookies and cakes (many of which are gluten free and/or Paleo!) line the counter, and gourmet quiches, salads and other desserts are proudly propped inside the the refrigerated display case. A large chalkboard hangs on the wall with hand-written menu items that make your mouth water as you peruse the options. Candy bar themed lattes (think Almond Joy and Milky Way!), cafe con leche, bacon and Gouda quiches, Sante Fe Salads, wraps, sandwiches, and even gluten free French toast make an appearance! Although Jet City’s known for their signature drinks (remember to try a Cafe Borgia!) they offer a wide variety of treats to compliment the hand-made creations. 

The next time you’re in the lovely Seminole Heights neighborhood, stop by and say hello to Jessica and the awesome staff at Jet City. Order a freshly prepared hot or cold beverage, pull up a chair, and sit down with a good book (or your laptop- they have free WiFi!). Believe me, it will be the highlight of your day! 

——————————————————–

So, I’ve been a bit inspired by Jessica’s creations at Jet City, that I got a little creative in my own kitchen whipping up this scrumptious Kale, Ham and Goat Cheese Quiche with an Almond Flour crust. 

Honestly, I have been whipping up some sort of crust-less quiche or fritatta pretty much every week since going NSNG back in October. However, I’ve grown tired of the crust-less versions, and thought I’d try a few recipes to see if I could create something delicious. Here’s the recipe!

For the crust
3/4 cup almond flour
1/2 stick unsalted cold butter
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp. sea salt
1 tsp. cracked black pepper
Pulse all ingredients in a food processor until the butter is incorporated. Press the mixture into the bottom and sides of a pie dish, then bake at 400 degrees for 8 minutes. While the crust is cooking, prepare the quiche filling. 

For the filling
8 large eggs
1/2 cup cream 
4oz goat cheese
2 slices of Applegate Farms ham, diced
1 cup chopped kale
1-2 scallions, finely chopped
1 tsp. sea salt
1 tsp. pepper
Whisk together the eggs and cream. Add the kale, ham, scallions, salt and pepper into the egg mixture. Remove the crust from the oven and set aside. Pour the filling into the crust, then add teaspoon sized dollops of the goat cheese all around the quiche. Bake at 400 degrees for 30-40 minutes, or until the center is firm. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Do share!