i was a bit turned off by the ambience the first time i came here - same as at lux, it kind of feels like you are stepping into an ikea catalogue. unlike lux, though, the atmosphere gets friendlier the longer you hang around.
where lux always feels more like an office, drip definitely feels like a neighborhood joint - albeit with contemporary furniture choices. there's a really sweet dog that runs around the place occasionally, and the owner/operator is super friendly and chatty if you want to be.
it's one of those coffee shops where you can sit and work, but there's also usually an opportunity or two every hour to jump into a convo that starts between the barista and the patrons and spreads around the cafe like a friendly communal blanket. not that people are talking loudly - it's just a small space, so you'll be able to hear what everyone is saying unless they are speaking quietly.
the espresso is yummy. note to the guy who got gas from an actual chai tea - that's how a chai latte is supposed to be made, man. it's like complaining because someone gave you fresh juice instead of juicy juice.
also, the bathroom area is awesome! i don't know why. i just really like it.
fair warning: the chairs are not very comfy. even the ones in the middle of the room. which look like they are begging to hold your fanny in a warming canvassed embrace - they leave you cold and a little stiff.