I have been excited for this location to open, as I'm always fond of being able to enjoy caffeinated beverages in century old houses. Let's call it a quirk. Besides which, the old tenant was a lingerie store, and I drink coffee with much greater frequency than I do wear frilly undergarments.
The interior aesthetics are excellent. The renovations have added layers of texture and color that reflect a throughly modern tone, but do not overwhelm it with "new-ness", which would simply feel false given that the structure has been in place for 101 years.
They are clearly still readying themselves for fully-open business. The very kind and friendly man at the till was distracted from time to time with chatter with another fellow about what kinds of tea they have, in response to a question from my coffee-mate. (Coffee Mate. Heh.) However, it was not off-putting, as they're still obviously getting the feel for the place themselves.
My coffee was very good, though not exceptional. I feel as though I've been spoiled by a certain roastery and coffee den in the city, who I shall not name, who seem to have perfected the beverage. With that said, it was very, very passable.
My friend's tea was tea. Neither exceptional, nor unexceptional. She did devour her turkey croissant roll dealy with some gusto, from which I took that it in particular was thoroughly satisfying. Or that she was ravenous. Or both.
Upstairs is a glass-walled boardroom that can be rented by the hour for $25. Installations are still being made to it, so I don't know that you want to rush in there tomorrow to use it. And I'm not certain that you'll wish to make presentations about your ground-breaking and world-revolutionizing handheld connectivity device (which remains, as-yet, unpatented), given the flimsy discretion offered by an entire wall of clear glass visible to the remainder of the upper level. However, it does look like a fun and functional meeting space for those who will remain fully garbed and unlikely to disclose trade secrets.
In summary, I enjoyed my first visit to this Waves location, and look forward to a visit again soon.
1/30