Customers can savor the flavor at
Boston Coffeehouse in Deland
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Since the dawn of civilization, brave adventurers have risked land and sea in pursuit of that one treasure to which no others could compare: the perfect coffee.

The trip has been shortened for those of us in West Volusia, thanks to Joe Valente and Boston Coffeehouse at 109 E New York Ave. For more than a year now, the charming mix of Old World decor and pleasant conversation have brought a loyal coffee-drinking clientele to DeLand's Boston Coffeehouse.

"A great cup of coffee, and a meeting place. Plus my sparkling personality," Joe says with a laugh. That is why the coffeehouse's faithful following keeps coming back. But could it also be the extra-large deli sandwiches that keep his customers so loyal?

"My lunch is always full," Joe concedes. "I'm a big eater and I simply hate skimpy sandwiches. I feel that people come expecting quality." Maybe Joe should give a little more credit to the great selection of pies and cakes he has at Boston Coffeehouse as an element of its success.

Or how about the Internet computers and free email he has there? Those features have big appeal to many people. But then there are the spacious meeting room and live weekend entertainment too. For those who want to take a bit of the Boston Coffeehouse home with them. Joe's gourmet coffee is available by the pound, and he now offers gift baskets, as well.

"I was surprised how quickly my coffee sold out last Christmas," Joe admits. "But then, coffee by the pound is a great gift item. Everybody drinks coffee, or knows someone who does."

Joe has proposed one other possible explanation for Boston Coffeehouse's success. "It was destiny," Joe says. "DeLand. I couldn't have dreamed up a better location. I'm spoiled here.