Like Joes up the street, Baluchon Raymond is in the middle of nowhere and I am thankful to the Indie Passport that I was able to find it along with two friends.
The place has a chill-out vibe that you would find in Insomnia lounge if it were cut by 2/3 and turned into a cafe. Exposed brick walls, large front windows and inviting if limited seating.
There was a girl working on her computer, although in fairness Baluchon lacks wifi and we found one charger near the window to charge our smartphones. Two gentlemen where playing chess which really added to the cool, relaxed factor. Although don't expect much in the people watching front since like Joes, this place is surrounded by residential housing and little foot traffic if at all.
The lattes were good however my friend ordered the Chai and was completely blown away. Since he is Indian, I will take that as high praise on the owner's skill to make one. Which by the way, he must be mentioned as a plus as he was friendly and willing to joke around a bit which added positively to the experience of the visit. Since the place is small, having an unfriendly barista would feel like going to a party with an unfriendly host.
Food items are interesting but the sandwich my friend ordered was overpriced for what he got but as other reviewers have mentioned menu items change so your mileage may vary.
Personally I will not be making plans to come back as it is simply too far and too much of a hassle to specifically come here. Although I would drop by if I was in the hood AND my friend Karthik who lives much closer has made it clear he will be coming back for some of that great Chai, so Baluchon at least got one more regular customer out of the three of us.
Great little place.