As much as I like to support local businesses, I've been disappointed by the Coventry Phoenix Coffee on numerous occasions. My complaint has nothing to do with the coffee itself, rather with the customer service and the venue.
I've been here probably 10-12 times, but it was the disappointment of my most recent visit that finally compelled me to write a review. Picture it ... it was a chilly fall day, about about 40F at 2P, and I wandered in to meet a friend.
There were two people working behind the counter, and they were engrossed in a conversation about someone they both knew. I think I stood there for about 4 minutes before one of them turned away from that very important conversation to take my order. The look on her face made it clear she was not pleased by my interruption, as she took my order. Her colleague was friendlier and came across with a smile and a perfunctory remark about the weather or some other meaningless niceity. Frankly, I don't mind someone being superficially polite in their role as salesperson or host. I don't ask for red carpet treatment, but I don't want to feel that I'm an imposition on someone I'm paying to serve me.
I sat down with my friend, and as we were chatting, I couldn't help but note how cold it was in there. Despite consuming a hot beverage, I was feeling downright cold, and had to put my jacket back on. I was surprised that they wouldn't turn up the heat, because it just wasn't enjoyable to sit in there. My friend, who frequents this Phoenix Coffee, said it was often rather cold in there during the fall and winter, even though they have a fireplace. Ultimately, we cut our conversation short and went elsewhere.
For those who may be considering heading over to this Phoenix coffee to work on a laptop, there is free WiFi, but the electrical outlets are not in abundance.
I know this won't be the last time I go to this Phoenix location, because it's a local meeting spot, but I don't think I'll ever be the one to suggest it.