John T.
Yelp
Like many Nashvillians, I have run afoul of the... system at Barista Parlor. Most everyone I know has been bitten by that dog. So, it was with some trepidation that I entered into Drug Store Coffee. I'm pleased to note, however, the experience was quite unlike other BP coffee jaunts. Perhaps the different name and the location (inside the magical Noelle Hotel) has changed the usual humorless scolding into a pleasant exchange of money for coffee.
The build out (like everything else in the Noelle) is impressive. The coffee counter runs almost the length of the space but it dead ends into a beautiful wooden work table, complete with schoolhouse swivel chairs. If you're not there for a work session, feel free to take a seat alongside the large window and gaze out into the goings on of an ever-busy Downtown Nashville. Finally, if the space is simply too packed with people, the hotel location lends itself to comfy chairs just outside the storefront. Suffice it to say, if you come in search of a seat and a drink, you'll find one. Rather, though, than being knocked over the head with BP branding, you'll find attractive 'Drug Store' cups, ninja turtle-esque wall hangings and fancy chocolates perfectly placed about the shop. The ceilings are high, the walls are white, the light is bright, and the space is attractive. This is somewhere you want to be.
As for the product... you know the product. It's the same high-quality coffee you'll find in East End, The Gulch and Germantown. From bourbon vanillas to caramel coffees, all your favorites are here. Well, almost all of your favorites are here. The seasonal blends found at the other locations haven't quite made their way to this one yet and the tea choices aren't as varied. I'm guessing that will change in the coming months. The pastries, too, are in a state of flux. Rather than 5 Daughters, the baked goods are transitioning to an in-house effort. I believe that my gluten-free coffee cake was from that new wave and, if so, your sweet bite needs will be safely met.
I relied on my own wifi while here so I can't vouch for or decry the connectivity situation. I will say that the space was pleasingly busy during my hour+ time working there. For such a new location -- inside a hotel, to boot -- that's pretty encouraging. Downtown Nashville has come a long way in the past few years. Next time you're in need of a coffee fix north of Broadway, stop in to Drug Store Coffee and prepare to be impressed.