Mike B.
Yelp
If this isn't one of the best hidden gem covered quaint patios in Bethesda... I don't know what is.
The fact that this patio wasn't brimming on the Sunday when I went is SHOCKING.
I fully understand though why it isn't brimming. Really... if you're not looking for this place, the chances of you coming across it are... not so great.
Also, parking in that weird split parking garage that is like half under construction right now and is sort of in between two one way roads is... well... let's just say it's less than convenient.
But I'm telling you (and have I ever lead you astray... - don't answer that), but I'm telling you this is a cute little enclave of a patio that is quite removed from the hustle and bustle of Bethesda row, Woodmont Triangle, and all of the other frenetic parts of Bethesda.
Now onto the product. I wish they would roast their beans darker. It seems like the beans they use are all like medium roast to light roast, and in my experience, when beans arn't roasted past a certain point the coffee has a unique, identifiable, and (for me) somewhat unfavorable flavor. I'm not sure what the obsession is with light roasting beans, but if you roast your bean to the point where my iced coffee looks like iced tea: no thank you.
While I was there, I tried both a small coffee and a latte. They both had that same sort of flavor that I don't love on the bean.
That said there are a few reasons why I'm giving this coffee house 4 stars.
1. Obviously the patio I was talking in the first part of the review about.
2. I love the design of this cafe. The aesthetics are VERY pleasing to the eye.
3. Customer service was excellent. Everyone who helped me was sweet as sweet potato pie ice cream with marshmallow candy sprinkles. Which... if someone hasn't made that yet... someone should.
4. You can literally open up a tab at this shop hahah. I told the cashier at the front how I was gonna try multiple drinks and she literally opened up a tab. Uhhh... how convenient is this? Also, I can see if I was spending a while in there working, this would be so clutch.
5. Did I mention the covered patio.
Yeah, I'm sure I can find something I enjoy on the menu. Next time, I'm gonna try their chai.
BTW - broad question to all cafes out there. Why do no cafes carry Lactaid milk? Like... everyone is SO into alternative milks... but let's be honest. Almond milk is basically water. Oat Milk is good... but for me it's certainly not an everyday milk. Soy milk... very acquired taste.
I'd just like to know. Why don't cafe's carry legit lactose free milk?