Robert’s Books — Local services in Riga

Well, I was looking for a bookstore where they sell text books, so I googled and I saw this intriguing place, so I decided to drop by. I was immediately charmed by the location and the decor. I got inside and I asked the young gentleman if they had text books. No textbooks😂, so I decided to have tea. He mentioned black or green tea, but I wasn't that thrilled. I asked if they had something else and he, enthusiastically, showed me a large jar with mixed herbal tea. Yes, that was perfect. I sat down outside and he brought the teapot. I took a sip, it was the tea I wanted. I looked around and I was transported back in time. There is a nostalgic element in this courtyard, with soft lights and a weathered wall with windows on the right. A tree is partially covering the wall. Its green presence gives warmth to the already cozy place. Customers looked relaxed, with a young man smoking and sipping his coffee, writing in a notebook. A poem, the beginning of a story? The wall art is jocular, yet inviting to a bit of reflection after reading the quote. Others were chatting and laughing. I took a few pictures, but, if you are in Riga, go and spend some time there. A full 5 stars for the service, location and atmosphere. And the big jar of mixed...

I had a very unpleasant experience at Robert's Books today, and I would like to understand why. At about 16.00 we entered the shop/cafe with the intention to have a cup of coffee and browse through the shelves for some books. There was nobody at the bar, but there was a young lady sitting at a table drinking something. I could not understand why she looked at us angrily. We looked at the menu and decided what we wanted. Then, to our surprise, the lady stood up with a look “I don't want to serve you“ rolling her eyes and said "yes?" with such intonation that I felt insulted. No "hello", no "good afternoon", no "what would you like" and no smile. 😱 Very rude and utterly appalling! I have never experienced anything like this before. How can this place afford employees like this young arrogant lady who rolls her eyes and purses her lips addressing the customers! Obviously, you have lost a customer who has previously bought books and has had coffee at your place. I really wanted to show my husband a nice place for a coffee, but, alas, we had a huge disappointment. It is surprising that customers who are ready to spend money are not welcome...

A hidden treasure!

I frequent Robert's Books a lot and I wish I had found it sooner. I found it much earlier, but I never went inside. Once I did I wish I lived closer to it.

It's such an amazing experience. A cafe and a book store of sorts all in one. Selection of books is stunning and some are much more expensive than I could think of buying. Great selection for most readers of fiction or non-fiction.

But most of all I love the catering towards the different sub cultures in Latvia. The art being displayed and sold at site. The musical instruments available.

It's a peculiar experience you won't regret having. A true hidden...