Fairways and Flat Whites – Exploring Golf and Coffee Across the US

Welcome to Week 2 of The World Unfolding

Hey there! Welcome to the second issue of The World Unfolding. I’m so glad you’re here, and if this is your first time reading, thanks for giving it a shot! This newsletter is going to cover a wide range of things—everything from coffee and golf to travel, airlines, mindfulness, yoga, and food. So, if coffee and golf aren’t your thing, hang tight—there’s more to come. But if you’re loving it, feel free to share it with others who might enjoy it too! And as always, if it’s not for you, you can easily unsubscribe at the bottom (no hard feelings, I promise).

Now, let's jump into this week’s edition: a combination of two of my favorite things—coffee and golf.

Cleveland, OH: The Quarry Golf Club (Canton) & Heartwood Coffee Roastery (Chagrin Falls)

Let’s start in Ohio with The Quarry Golf Club in Canton. I’ll be honest—this might just be the best public course in Ohio, in my humble opinion. The Quarry is a course that takes full advantage of its natural quarry setting, with dramatic elevation changes, rocky outcrops, and some seriously fun shot-making opportunities. Designed by Brian Huntley and opened in 2006, it’s got this rugged charm that makes you feel like you’re playing somewhere much more expensive. But here’s the kicker—it’s an absolute steal at $45 to $65 depending on the season, mostly because it’s in Canton and not a big-name city. If you haven’t played it yet, put it on your list.

After your round, head up to Heartwood Coffee Roastery in Chagrin Falls. Heartwood’s brick-walled interior makes it feel like a cozy escape, which is perfect after a full day on the course. They roast their own beans, and everything on the menu is thoughtfully crafted. I personally love their flat white, but their pour-overs are excellent too.

Scottsdale, AZ: Troon North (Scottsdale) & Morning Jo Coffee (Scottsdale)

Now we’re heading to the desert, where Troon North in Scottsdale features two of the best desert courses you’ll find: Pinnacle and Monument, both designed by the legendary Tom Weiskopf. I have a soft spot for Troon North, and Pinnacle is my personal favorite of the two. It’s got some of the best holes you’ll find in the Sonoran Desert, with sweeping views, elevation changes, and a real sense of strategy. Pinnacle opened in 1996, and its design makes every round feel memorable. Monument, which opened in 1990, is more scenic overall, but it’s got a bit of a mix—its front nine is arguably the best at Troon North, but the back nine doesn’t quite live up to the same level. Still, playing Monument is an experience in itself.

Fun fact: Tom Weiskopf, who designed both of these courses, was an Ohio State alum (Go Buckeyes!). He also just had his final course design open before his passing: Black Desert Resort in St. George, Utah, another desert gem that’s getting a lot of attention right now. Troon North, with green fees ranging from $150 to $300, is a premium experience that’s well worth it if you’re in the Scottsdale area.

After your round, stop by Morning Jo Coffee in Scottsdale. This place has a beautiful outdoor patio, perfect for relaxing after a hot day on the course. Their coffee is all about quality and simplicity—no frills, just really good coffee.

San Diego, CA: San Vicente Golf Course (Ramona) & Bird Rock Coffee Roasters (Multiple Locations)

San Diego’s next, and I’ve got a hidden gem for you: San Vicente Golf Course out in Ramona. It’s one of those courses you might overlook because of its location, but I’m telling you, it’s worth the drive. Originally opened in 1972, it was redesigned by Andy Staples in 2018, and Staples did an incredible job. The greens are fast and smooth, and the overall layout is challenging without being punishing. One thing I really love is that it’s super walkable, which is important to me because I prefer walking over riding. The green fees range from $50 to $75, making it a great value for such a well-kept course.

After your round, head back into San Diego and grab a coffee at Bird Rock Coffee Roasters. They have multiple locations, including La Jolla, Little Italy, and Point Loma, and no matter which one you go to, you’re in for a treat. Bird Rock is all about sustainable practices and seriously good coffee. Their cold brew is one of my favorites, and the laid-back, beachy vibe is exactly what you’d expect from a San Diego coffee spot.

Finally, we’re heading to LA, where Rustic Canyon in Moorpark offers one of the best golf experiences in Southern California. And I’m not exaggerating when I say this—I think Rustic Canyon is the best course built in California since the legendary George Thomas passed away in 1932. Designed by Gil Hanse and Geoff Shackelford, Rustic Canyon opened in 2002 and is all about strategy and using the natural landscape. There’s nothing overly flashy here—just smart, thoughtful design that makes you think your way around the course. With green fees ranging from $50 to $85, it’s a great value for the experience you get.

After your round, head to downtown LA and visit Verve Coffee Roasters in the Arts District. This is Verve’s signature LA location, and it’s awesome. Two stories of open, airy space with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in tons of natural light. Verve originally started in Santa Cruz, but their LA location really captures the city’s energy while still maintaining that relaxed vibe. Whether you grab an espresso or their famous nitro cold brew, you’re in for a top-notch coffee experience.

Final Thoughts

These four cities—Cleveland, Scottsdale, San Diego, and LA—offer some of the best coffee and golf experiences you’ll find. Whether you’re navigating The Quarry's cliffs or sipping a flat white at Heartwood, there’s a balance to be found in both activities. And even if coffee and golf aren’t your thing, I’ve got plenty more to share in future editions—think travel, mindfulness, yoga, and food. So stay tuned!

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