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| - I was tickled with excitement when I learned about the arrival of this new local caffeinated business to enter Aracadia, so of course I had to drive right down and see if it was worth the excitment. To sum up this review, yes it was, but let me explain a little bit more in depth.
The little cottage surrounded by welcoming tables and chairs in its front yard practically smiled at me as I walked up. It was around 4:25 PM as I walked through the doors. As I entered, the barista looked up and said they were closing. Tear. She must have noticed my look of disappointment, because she asked me what I was planning on ordering. When I mentioned that I was planning on getting an iced coffee, she pleasantly said that she could assist and welcomed me inside. Phew! So with that, the customer service earned this shop a point right off the bat.
The coffee shop is intimate and quaint. It has the memory of the former tenants yet they've rearranged the interior to give it their own coffee shop twist. To the right, I noticed several small booths perfect for an afternoon of working. I was impressed at how many tables they fit inside, considering the size of the cottage. I wouldn't suggest that you meet here with your study group of ten, but if it's just you or maybe one or two others, it's a nice little spot!
Baked goods such as muffins, pie and scones lined the counter. I was tempted, but I knew dinner was just around the corner so I fought temptation. Next time though! I ordered the medium iced toddy. Normally I drink iced coffee with non-fat milk and a hint of sugar free syrup. This toddy would have worked without either, but I couldn't avoid adding at least a little non-fat milk to it. The coffee was good and had the caffeine kick I needed to get me through the day. I also like the fact that they use Cartel products.
I like Carmel's because it has the Downtown Phoenix coffee shop vibe for the Arcadia crew. It isn't stuffy in there, it doesn't feel like your typical corporate coffee shops that surround Arcadia and Scottsdale and it has a nice independent feeling that fills this cottage with character. Once I walked inside, I would have never guessed a Jack-in-the-Box was just next door.
I think this is a perfect location for this coffee shop and it'll be nice to stop in and grab a drink and baked item...and probably stay and work for a little bit too!
Thanks for opening your doors Carmel's!
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