| rev:text
| - I want to love Civilization. I really, really do. As a native of Cleveland who left for the Northeast for college, I'm always on the prowl for unique (okay fine, hipster) coffeeshops back home that aren't Peet's.
Civilization is BEAUTIFUL. When I went, tinsel, evergreen branches, and snow hero sculptures canvassed all sides of this small, cozy flat. I love the original woodwork and the furniture to match, and yet, the staff does an amazing job of keeping the "vintage" look reserved for decor only. The pastry tray and machines all look as if they'd been installed and shined yesterday! The bathrooms are immaculate.
The baristas there could tell it was my first time and were patient as I scanned the menu. I went during an off-peak hour, though, so best to know what you're getting so the line doesn't snake out the door. There's only so much standing room here! I was helped by two younger looking staff who seemed to be having a good time, but not too good of a time the way super hipster baristas sometimes evoke--the kind that turns into espresso-side gossip and a drink that takes 10 minutes to make. They know what they're doing.
I ordered a mocha - 2.50!! for a small - and the shortbread cookie. Both were decent. The mocha tasted a little flat for some reason. They add some flavoring to it that detracted from the decadent, how-is-this-coffee, chocolate-ly feeling I usually get on first sip. The cookie was perfectly buttery and tasted as fresh as could be.
So why only 3 stars?
Well, I sensed a distinct "squat" culture here, which is great if it's brimming with students or professionals putting in some work after hours, or even if it's clearly friends catching up over many hours, but these squatters were card-playing, honestly pretty creepy men who just stared ruthlessly at every patron who entered the door. What's that all about?
Also, as has been pointed out in other reviews....it's time to get one of those iPad credit card swipes. They'd save themselves the frustration of having to explain, and people would probably tip even MORE. Those apps can be programmed to take you directly to a tip page, after all.
And lastly, it did get pretty loud when I was in there, which detracts from the coziness and potential to be a study spot.
But still, for hipster vibes in Cleveland, and a quality product to go with it? Minimal snobbery and fair, fair prices?
I'll be back!
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