Abigail Bailey
Google
I first learned about Bad Manners Coffee from their Instagram page and general social media presence. When I saw the sign as I drove through WAVL I was so excited I had to drop in to finally check it out. I tried a classic iced latte with house-made strawberry syrup added and a jalapeño bagel. The latte was the perfect amount of sweet without being cloying and the bagel was warm, buttery, flaky, and had the absolute barest hint of spice. I love spice so would have enjoyed a little more but it’s mild enough that you could give it to a slightly adventurous child and they would excitedly tell you “I ate something spicy” and you could smile knowingly.
I sat out on their small one-table patio to eat my breakfast and drink my coffee. I’m happy they have it as an option but I will say it felt slightly precarious as the deck slopes downward and there is a gap between the concrete slab at the door and the wood of the patio flooring. Elderly and disabled folks should avoid this area due to the uneven footing and safety concerns but the interior is accessible and has tables.
They put up billowing and gauzy curtains and artificial plant wall coverings over lattice work to evoke a sense of privacy between the surrounding businesses and the perpetual construction happening behind the building.
The music that played seemed to be a calm and ambient mixture of Phoebe Bridgers, Mitski, and other female singer-songwriters of similar genres. The aesthetics of the interior are bright and artsy with pink walls and leafy green plant life and create a comfortably welcoming atmosphere.
Bad Manners Coffee also seems to partner with some local artists as there were cards/mini-prints and stickers available for sale with individual payment options via Venmo available. We love a local business that supports local artists!
The two baristas I encountered were warm, professional, kind, and helpful. They gave recommendations on drinks and food to myself and all following customers without being pushy or sounding like they were performing from a script. Both ladies also had exceptionally lovely smiles and hairstyles!!
I had a wonderful visit and I will be back time and again now that I know this little corner of peace exists.