Nicolas L.
Yelp
I have given Barista's many chances over the 4 years that I've been in and around Tracy, never by myself, but chances nonetheless. If you need a sweet kick, with minimal coffee flavor, any of the iced drinks or blended will do. I have shared many drinks and have gotten a taste of most of the menu I feel.
But about 3 days ago, I finally said to myself that I will finally give Baristas a final Litmus test: enter the Breve Cortado, (breve is half and half). When I initially asked for a Cortado, I was met with "what size?". Already a bad sign.
FYI service is always good at Baristas so that is never a complaint, they are very kind, and accommodating to any request or extras you may want or need!
Back to the Cortado. When I received it, the lid was on, so naturally I want to remove it to look at the texture, and maybe reveal a nicely steamed drink. Nothing. I was very disappointed. No texture to speak of. It appeared to be espresso with warm half and half poured into it. I know that's not what they did, because I saw the way they steamed my milk, and it was worrisome, and lacked any care or technique that makes steamed milk what it should be. The actual coffee flavor is what I already knew it to be, slightly burnt flavor, a little smokiness, and not much natural sweetness or fruitiness, since it was roasted seemingly too much.
I wish there was good-great coffee in Tracy, but no one hits the mark. It is a great neighborhood spot, with good prices, solid pre baked pastries, and a loyal community. If I have a sweet coffee craving, I would choose them, but I don't go after that, I want something more.
I've worked with coffee four years now, and have had the privilege to learn with some fantastic coffee artisans. I wish to see more of that, than family owned Pseudo Dutch bros.