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| - It had been two years since visiting, and the things that have changed are not for the better.
There are cleanliness issues I'd never seen during any of my previous visits. The bottom of the pastry display case had debris, and there was dried batter and dust behind the crepe maker next to where prepared drinks are picked up. It was obvious these areas had not been cleaned recently. A big reason for the low rating is what appears to be unhygienic practices on the prep side of the counter.
Another negative was being treated as if we were a nuisance. The only person this happened with was a man who may have been the owner or manager. He waited on us at the register and made our drinks. When we approached, he appeared incredibly bored - eh, this happens, not a big deal. It got uncomfortable when he barely looked at us and didn't take the time to say anything when I asked what kind of chai they used. He responded with a general turn of his wrist to his left. I looked to my right, saw small shelves, scanned the items displayed, and found bags of chai available for sale. The interaction was off-putting from beginning to end.
On to the items we ordered... my mom said her cappuccino was very good tasting, my chai was bland and too sweet, and my dad's macaroon was dry and not fresh.
These are elements I'm glad have not changed:
The seating is plentiful - inside and outside. The main outside area is encircled by a metal fence - much appreciated since the coffee shop is on the strip mall's end corner where there's more car traffic. Inside many of the numerous tables are large enough to accommodate a group. Adequate size for playing a game or having a meeting.
The customer service I've received from the other baristas has been TOP NOTCH - always personable, warm, and eager to answer questions. The espresso drinks they made were good and hit the spot. Thank you for your genuine and thoughtful efforts!
This shop has its high and negative points. With many independently-owned & consistently high-quality coffee shops in Scottsdale, I will be frequenting them rather than stopping at this Coffee Plantation.
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