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| - I used to visit this place mainly for monthly committee meetings for a non-profit I used to do some work for. I also have occasional "coffee client meetings" here. My prior experiences would have warranted a 4 star rating. Usually at least friendly and acceptable service with a decent cup of coffee and atmosphere.
Unfortunately, I just had an inexcusable experience here and it knocked my rating down to 2 stars. If based on today only, this would be a 1 star rating.
Environment is decent. True to many other reviews, this is not a Starbucks type of place. Definitely has a more local type of coffee shop.
When I walked in today, I was met by a barista who was less than excited to be at work. She was working hard to clean up and worked non-stop, and did what she was supposed to, but was MUCH less than enthusiastic and friendly about her work. Not a smile to be seen.
On this lazy Sunday afternoon, I ended up on the phone with a friend of mine, who decided to come and join me.
We were sitting at the bar closest to the barista. After a short visit, the barista suddenly said (in a not a very friendly fashion), "I'm sorry. I don't have anyone to take the next shift and you are going to have to leave." We were shocked and didn't really understand, as closing time was later and we hadn't hear her say anything to any other patrons.
We were apparently the first. We watched her walk through the packed coffee house to every table and kick everyone out abruptly. When I say abruptly, we were outside on the sidewalk within 3-5 minutes.
I understand that life happens. Coming from a lifetime background in the hospitality business myself, I truly understand scheduling frustrations, etc. However, the LAST people that need to experience your bad day is the customer!!
In our opinion, this barista could have been much more friendly and her customer relations skills were pitiful, at best. She put absolutely NO effort into being friendly and communicating her needs.
If this is the experience that Echo Coffee has come to offer, I will not be coming here again.
If not for past experiences in this place, I would NEVER come back. As it stands, I may try one more time. If I experience another "angry" barista, this place is off the list.
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