Birchwood Coffee Co — Restaurant in Apopka

Recently celebrated my sisters upcoming wedding with a group of 20 ladies. Our server Krystle did an amazing job. She showed up early to ensure everything was set up just right, paid attention to detail and was very kind and helpful. She was on point!!! Management on the other hand seemed to disrupt and pressure her in a way that was counter productive and made it feel like they were rushing the process. I have been in the business for over 25 years and understand the need for the kitchen to expedite food to large parties in a way that keeps the flow, however it was obvious that was the managers main concern and not ensuring that the party felt welcome, appreciated, or assisted in a way that supported the Server in a positive manner. There was an obvious tension there. Again Krystle was AMAZING! The manager was short and not very good at giving a kind welcoming vibe before during or after. When someone is spending that kind of money and wanting to have fun with family and friends there should be a professional, patient, graceful approach. The food was incredible!! The dining area perfect!! We had an amazing time! My only issue was the lack of tact of the manager. It was noticed by my sister and on a day like that, there should have never been a vibe that felt rushed or like we were putting them out somehow. There should have been another server assisting her rather than a grumpy manager who obviously didn’t enjoy that aspect of her job. Krystle is the kind of server that had a genuine and apparent level of care for her costumers needs, however it was obvious this was not the concern of The Birchwood leadership team. No personality and the communication of the bill was stale and done with zero grace or a feeling of being grateful for the opportunity to host such an important event for my sister.

Also the service fee being split with so many others in a way that did not give the opportunity to give the wonderful server her true share was tacky. Of course she got an extra tip… but the structure and percentage that was explained seems over board! Working a private party is an art form to me and the lead deserves to make a large percentage of that gratuity. When explaining it… it came off in a way that just left a bad taste in my mouth. My suggestion is to have someone with more experience with these parties. Someone who has a more welcoming manner and graceful kind approach with people to present the bill, assist the server, and facilitate in a much more classy manner.

Thank...

Everyone is very nice and there is a real sense of community. The atmosphere is pleasant and is nice to work in. I can tell they already have regulars, which is awesome.

Only reason I stopped going is because when the 2 young girls are working, they don’t know that the cold brew comes with froth or how to make froth. They try to make it (only upon request) - I think they just shake up some milk in a cup. They pour it on top and serve it and this “topping” with large popping bubbles lasts about 1 minute and then disappears into the drink. They do not use the machine like you’re supposed to; I don’t think they’ve had enough training.

Twice before that when the older woman made my drinks, the cold brew came with froth automatically and the froth was absolutely creamy and perfect and lasted for over an hour while I worked. It clung to the side of the mason jar as I drank the drink - wonderful! I love my drinks when she is working. I just never know when she is...

Today was my first day at this cute spot and I’m so glad I came! I got my usual that I get at every new place I try; an oat milk vanilla chai latte; and it did not disappoint! The flavors were amazing, the temperature was perfect, and the chai tasted authentic…not like the typical sweet powdered chai. I went to get some studying in and the atmosphere was so relaxing and welcoming. There are plenty of outlets, places to work, sit, study, and even a comfy couch and chairs to catch up with friends. The music wasn’t obnoxiously loud like some places. It was very calm and instrumental. The next time I come, I will definitely try something to eat off the menu! The girls were so kind and the service was impeccable. They checked in on me during my visit to see if I needed anything else. I wish I could pick this place up and take it back to SoCal with me 😂 whenever I am in Apopka, I will definitely be back, thank you so...