I visited this Cartel with a group of friends one night, just before they closed. We raced over to Old Town so we could get in the door in time, and I was pleased to see that the lone barista didn't appear disgruntled by our intrusion. We did make it pretty easy, ordering mostly the same drink (Hot Chai Latte) and paying on one tab. He went out of his way to help my non-coffee-drinking friend choose a tea and I overheard him joking around as he steamed some milk. He was friendly and knowledgeable; that's what I want in a barista!
The Chai Lattes are phenomenal. I don't know what they do differently than any other coffee shop, but they turn out great.
I like that after weaving through throngs of "Scottsdale people" (you know who I mean) I can walk in to this coffee shop and feel like I'm not in Scottsdale. It's industrial, small, with cool decor.
I love the iPad that's used for placing orders, charging credit cards, and providing receipts. It's sleek, eco friendly, and hip. I hope that's the way of the future!
I also love that this isn't Starbucks.