Once a Favourite, Ruined by the Owner's Discrimination
I have been a loyal customer of Simply Beans for years, even driving 30 minutes for what I considered the best coffee in Brisbane. The baristas are consistently excellent—knowledgeable, respectful, and they truly craft a perfect flat white. The Colombian blend is exceptional. Until recently, I would have given this place 5 stars without hesitation.
However, my final experience on 13/08/2025 was so shocking and unacceptable that it has completely overshadowed the quality of the coffee.
While visiting the store, my companion and I engaged in a brief, quiet prayer. We were situated at the very back of the store, out of the way, not blocking any pathways or disturbing any other customers. The shop was nearly empty.
The owner approached us not with curiosity or a polite request, but with outright aggression. He began screaming at us, stating, "This is not a house of prayer," and threatened to call the police on us for this peaceful act. His conduct was intimidating, humiliating, and deeply offensive.
I want to be very clear: this issue is solely with the owner. The staff on duty were clearly embarrassed and later apologized for his behavior. They handled the subsequent situation with total professionalism. When I chose to return unopened coffee beans from my purchase in protest of the owner's actions, the staff, understanding the situation, did the right thing and accepted the return.
It is a tragedy that the owner's blatant religious discrimination and complete lack of respect tarnishes the hard work of his fantastic team and their quality product.
I cannot, in good conscience, support a business where the person in charge makes customers feel threatened and vilified for their faith. While I hold no ill will towards the kind staff, I must warn others, particularly from the Muslim community or any religious group, that you may be subjected to intolerance and hostility from the owner.
My previous 5-star review was based on the product and the staff. This 2-star review is a necessary record of the owner's discriminatory actions. I hope he reconsiders his behavior, as it has lost him a...
Read moreWas a bit disappointed with our experience, as I was looking forward to trying a local roastery.
Walked in to a line of fake plants and fake flowers lining a fake window. The space was bright and airy but then they put the actual counter and baristas coffee making section in this very dark space underneath he mezzanine. The walls were plastered with photos, information, certificates, old awards etc. And as you continued throughout the space, more and more fake plants, everywhere you looked. So busy and felt just fake and wrong.
I waited a while to order my coffee, and the place wasn't exactly full. The guy at the counter was very friendly and had great customer service, although the lady behind the machine kept interrupting him. Thought that was a bit odd.
The food and coffee was also astronomically expensive. I paid $12 for an iced long black and an iced latte. They weren't abnormally large either just the regular size. Pre made sandwiches were $10+. Coffee was also pretty average (I chose the house blend supremo??) Just tasted watered down and flavourless.
There was also a space for barista training which was also strangely spaced out and just felt kind of uncomfortable. I wonder if they actually roast the beans there? There were so many choices of beans and accessories to buy it was kind of bizarre.
Overall, probably wouldn't go back in a hurry. I hope they change up the decor and figure out their style. Just a bit...
Read moreFirst time visit to this coffee shop and what a great little place. Located directly off Compton road, Underwood in the rear area of a small industrial complex called Southpark center. Lovely modern industrial shop front and interior on this converted industrial unit, gives a great feel good factor. Layout inside is excellent and surprisingly roomy, with one of my favourite features being an upper level (almost outdoor setting/beer garden feel, but inside this well illuminated unit. The coffee on offer is a great range, with several grinders loaded with different flavour/countries beans, for you to choose from. Tea's, iced beverages, milk shakes and frappes are also available. There is a great menu for hot and cold foods, as well as cakes, pastries, breads and sandwiches. The staff were extremely friendly, happy and more than happy to help and explain the choices available and great service. Barrista classes are also available should you want to try your hand at something different. Access is excellent from Compton road and public toilets are available in the shop. A great little coffee shop, well worth a visit if you haven't as...
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