Cantabria Coffee Company — Restaurant in Bemidji

I was an infrequent customer before I became part of the barista fam. But before I worked here, I came in a few times to grab something to drink, either the iced strawberry sweet matcha latte during the summer, or a hot mocha during the colder months. The baristas were always so kind and warm, everyone always so quick to greet customers or let them know they’ll be right with them. I came in during slower times as well as busier times. We checked out the pawn shop a handful of times, then one day I saw there was a door leading into a giant cafe, it was so cool to me. I loved all the seating and the beautiful decor, and saw they even sold local merchandise. I quickly realized this coffee shop was a small local business and the heart of Downtown Bemidji. If you’re on the way to work, hanging out with friends, having a study sesh, or just want quality, handcrafted, delicious coffee and a homemade tasty treat, you will go to Cantabria. Everyone knows “Cantabria” in Bemidji.

Then, I was in between jobs. I was a barista before, so I applied to several coffee shops here. One day, I went in with my fiancé to show him the coffee shop and grab an application. Katy greeted us with a radiant smile and was happy to give me an application. I talked with the recently moved on manager, Katey 🥺 about the application. Later when other jobs fell through, I was saved by Cantabria. I was so lucky to get the job, and I needed one so badly. Not only was this in my area of interest and passion, but the general vibe of Cantabria was something I had been longing for. The lowkey, chill, and positive atmosphere within the baristas as well as the customers was such a nice change of pace and scenery I so desperately needed. I am so blessed and happy with all of my experiences so far with Cantabria and the...

I took my four kids here, the kids all got muffins, and tea, and I got a sandwich, and coffee, they had a box of doninos, and a super comfy couch next to a fire place. The chocolate muffins (which I did try a bite of just because I wanted to try it) were EXTREMELY MOIST almost like they're made with brownie batter? And the pistachio muffins are also very moist and sweet! The sandwich I had was just a vegan sandwich because I wanted to try something new, and it was extremely filling for the size! They DO have a bathroom there, it's just down a hallway through the double doors, which is also extremely clean and well kept! The people who work there are very customer AND CHILD friendly! They have a handicap ramp to get to the eating area and the whole "welcome to my Tuscan mansion" vibe inside the eating area is absolutely adorable. It feels like a fine dining establishment for rich people when you go in there, with the same cozy feeling as a coffeeshop! I only wish they had activities like open mic night and...

I have gone back and forth with coming into Cantabria over the years due to the unkind customer service. Today was no different. I ordered my drink, got the total. I didn't pay much attention until I saw the total on the screen. Shocked at the price I asked if that was really my total for 1 drink and why. She answered, "Didn't you hear me say the total?" I explained I hadn't paid much attention. I get coffees often, and have never had 1 drink cost nearly $9. She explained why it cost that much, but still I was shocked. I told her I didn't want to pay that, asked for a refund, and asked if I could order something else. Ordered my drink, she tells me the total, I go to put my card in, and with a little sass she repeats the total, and then asks "is that total ok?". It was just said so rudely said, and I do not understand why she had to speak to me like that. I did reply, "Yes, that total is fine. I just don't want to pay $9 for 1 drink." I don't plan on going back...