LongStory Coffee — Restaurant in Belleville

Updated review: Looks like I missed the full menu for flavor options/baked good descriptions and the comfy seating area is on the far side of the room. I hope to visit again soon!

This was my first time visiting this coffee shop and the coffee was good and my kids were happy with the baked goods, but a couple things could be improved. I prefer adding flavoring or interesting combinations to my coffee, so it was a little difficult to figure out what flavorings were offered since they don't provide a list or a chalkboard with flavors... I had to look at the flavoring syrups within view on the back counter (which some are not viewable) and the barista couldn't suggest flavors I would like. I also prefer seeing a list of named flavor combos (German Chocolate) that make it easier to decide.

The baked goods are not labeled either so I'm left guessing what flavor cookie is on display or whether or not a croissant has filling (is it chocolate, is it Nutella?) (Update: there is a more descriptive menu that it seems I missed). The atmosphere seems a little boring, basic tables/chairs... no comfy seating that you would invite friends to chat and have a coffee. (update: there is some comfy seating on the far side of the room that I missed)

Positives: good pricing, nice service, they have a variety of whole bean roasted coffee (but I'm not sure if there is a way to try them before buying a bag as they aren't really listed as an option on the menu, although they do have some cold cans available). Clara B's also serves hot food during...

My family is fairly new to the area. We decided to venture out in the summer heat on a Sunday afternoon and try a new coffee place, in hopes of being able to sit down, enjoy our coffee and possibly some brunch. We arrived at LongStory around 1 pm and it was an absolute madhouse. All of the tables were filled with Clara B’s patrons, and the coffee bar was completely open as far as seating goes. Although, we had our infant daughter with us and were unable to sit at the bar comfortably. We were unable to order any food from Clara B’s, as we did not want to eat in our car. But we did order our coffee to go, and unfortunately did not have a warm/friendly customer service experience. As we were waiting for our coffee, a very generous family offered us their table as they were leaving. I stood nearby while still keeping some space to let them comfortably gather themselves, as they also had a baby with them. Once they walked out, I started towards the table, when a woman suddenly walked past me right to the table we were offered and sat down. I didn’t say anything to her, as I’m not a confrontational person, but we did immediately leave upon receiving our coffee because of it. It’s a shame that it ended up that way, as we were looking forward to trying someplace new. We may return in the future, on a less busy day at at a less busy time. But it probably won’t happen for...

Longstory short, get the Peppermint Latte. Peppermint appears to be a staple menu item if you're like me and have to wait a whole year for seasonal flavors at other coffee shops. The turn to get into this place is very sharp and narrow. It's a gravely rock lot like train track yard. Maybe it used to be a train station stop? I'm not from the area so I was worried about getting a flat. Anyways, the entrance is off to the side and confusing because it seems to be the location of Clara Bs as well. What's funny is that's where I wanted to go yesterday but my friend wanted BBQ. So maybe another time. Anyways, once inside it's spacious and gives off train station waiting area vibes with a hipster touch. There is plenty of space to not be on top of other humans like most coffee shops. When I was trying to ask if the to-go cup would have latte art, I don't think the barista understood my question at first so I had to ask again and opted for dining in so I could take this picture. It was not the prettiest design and that's okay because the coffee...