So, I've always been anti-Cartel. I had some pretty negative experiences at the one in downtown Phoenix, so I decided it was time to re-engage with the original Cartel in Tempe.
I first came here several years ago, I believe on some sort of date thingie. It was a really cute place with a ton of hipsters working on laptops or also on dates. The lattes were pretty great, and I thought I could have an LTR with this shop (not the date though).
Now, after a few years, I came back to Tempe and really appreciated it for the location (there's always parking unless it's a busy night at Casey's), and really loved the employee that helped me out. I was buying ground coffee for some friends out-of-town, and he was really helpful. I have a new-found respect for this place, and hope to come back whenever I'm around to get a latte or some of their great tea.
Cartel Tempe, you've changed me. Or at least just changed my thoughts on the Cartel brand.