James Parrish
Google
For a small independent coffee spot, this local institution leans heavily on its food offerings, but its coffee program and roasting profiles leave much to be desired. While some other reviews praise the space’s aesthetic appeal and menu variety, my experience with the coffee itself was disappointing. A shot of espresso pulled 30 grams outside of its intended service parameters, followed by a three-minute conversation revealing a fundamental lack of understanding of how to dial in their own machines, highlights a major gap in barista training. I abandoned the idea of getting a decent cup of coffee and instead got a pot of tea for a whopping $6. The tea was a fine enough quality, but I'd expect something a little more bespoke for $6 even in this economy.
Some patrons appreciate the ambiance, likening it to an upgraded version of the previous Espresso Roma Cafe, which occupied the space for a decade. However, unlike Roma, they struggle with providing consistent WiFi, which is frustrating given that the space is clearly designed to function as a study, remote work, or third space. Oddly, the upgraded amenities seem counterproductive when the core functionality—reliable internet and a well-executed coffee program—isn’t prioritized.
The staff is incredibly friendly and polite, which many other reviewers highlight as a redeeming factor. That said, other feedback aligns with my experience: the focus appears to be on churning out a high volume of low-cost, subpar drinks rather than prioritizing guest experience or product quality. While some customers may appreciate the affordability, those seeking a well-crafted coffee might find better options elsewhere.
I’ll revisit in a month to see if improvements have been made, but as of now, I’d suggest exploring other coffee spots if quality and consistency and access to the internet are your priority.
