I found the staff a little unfriendly today, at both Sam James’ Harbord location and another coffee shop I have frequented a lot over the past 2 years. I’m not naming the other shop because I like one of the baristas who was not there today. I think today’s tone was set by one individual. As someone who has probably stopped by 40 times over 2 years, maybe more, I did not appreciate the attitude.
I will be focusing on the places with the friendlier baristas.
Shout out to Larry’s Back Pocket, Fika, Rustle and Still, and Hamers. The baristas have always been kind and welcoming, even to aging Gen Xers like me.
A thoughtful friend who knows I love coffee and trying new bags each time got me this coffee advent calendar this year - each day contains a new coffee type/whole bean in a small container that be used for a pour over or double shot espresso. Had never heard of this roaster from Mississauga before and am blown away by the quality and uniqueness. If you’re into light roasts, they’re strong - I’d say on-par with Subtext, Traffic (MTL), etc.
Have never been to the location and don’t drive, but will be ordering online once I’m done this advent.
I think the price for an iced latte is a What the Market Will Bear price, not a price based on the logic that ice is cheaper than the milk it’s replacing.
Yes ultimately the market dictates the price over the long run, but it also could be the water bill/labour/maintenance for an ice machine? Just speculating as I try to drill down to the dollars and and cents of the cafe/restaurant biz.
I will ask next time I order an iced latte with an ice surcharge.
I would think different coffee shops use different logic when setting prices
This Cosmo coffee shop charges less for espresso drinks that most, so they might be using a Ryan Air approach. And I am okay with that. One very sweet employee was running the place, efficiently, doing the work of 6 typical Starbucks or Tim Hortons employees.
I followed up, Googs, and ordered the orange mocha at Coco’s . It’s good and the orange is subtle. Not worth the drive from Pickering, but worthwhile if you happen to be nearby
