Ruska Coffee Company — Restaurant in Caribou

I came from over 1,000 miles away to try this food and to personally experience the vibes but I’ll have to be honest folks, it’s unfortunately so overhyped. The drinks are fun, the food is good and the atmosphere is definitely there but what lacks is the consistency & it’s underwhelming welcoming attitude.

Coming from a larger area to small town cozy corner it saddens me to experience this after hearing how much it’s loved locally, as well as to find that it’s not a true cafe experience, rather a Northern Maine tourist destination. So many things to buy that aren’t food that it actually gets in the way of the customer experience. It was even retold to me, someone else having the staff to politely ask them to sit in a separate section because of these items being so close in proximity to window seating…

Here are my examples: never hear a “hi how are you” when ordering, I just walk up and stand in silence most times till the cashier asks me ‘what I want’ I get better staff interactions from the barista boys than most others and they just say “have a nice day” I’ve only ever gone maybe 4hrs or less before close and each time there is a lack of consistency in both cashier and kitchen staff 2 times now my lotus drinks were very poorly measured, I mostly got water down energy drink even when I asked for less ice Again 2 times now my breakfast sandwich orders were incorrect , once without my cheese preference Unfortunately as I said above this “coffee shop” has so many things to buy in every corner, ceiling to floor of just stuff. Some related to coffee, others not at all

My take away, the staff if more focused on what kind of “experience” they give the costumers rather than making it as cozy as they (maybe) initially set out to be. As I said before the food is fine, drinks could be better for me but I’m hurt by how undervalued I felt in just very basic/niche...

This is now my second time going to Ruska, and I can tell you right away: it won't be my last! The atmosphere is absolutely wonderful, incorporating just the right balance of coffee shop, homey lounge, and "shop local." The drinks are wonderful (I have a weakness for blended coffee drinks with caramel, and theirs are divine!), my breakfast today and lunch yesterday were both fabulous, and the staff is friendly and helpful. I can't wait to try out some of the baked goods! There are many different items available for sale as well, from earrings to paintings to hoodies and coffee mugs, a variety of snack foods and teas and maple products, and probably more that I haven't found yet! I've already picked up a couple pairs of earrings and I'm sure more will follow me home soon. My experiences here so far have been delightful, and I look forward to...

What a wonderful coffee shop! We are so lucky to have a business in the area like this. Nothing else within 30 miles offers all that Ruska's does. Espressos, lattes, etc, iced &hot, tea, natural energy drinks, excellent local baked goods, NY Bagels (!!!!), breakfast, lunch, and a friendly and visually pleasing atmosphere. Her prices are so good that I'm almost scared she won't be able to stay in business. The quiche (ham, swiss, & mushroom) was delicious, beautiful, and generously sized! The fresh fruit and whipped cream was the perfect accompaniment. They are mostly a coffee shop, so when I ate in I was not surprised to be served on a paper plate with plastic utensils. I will definitely return, and will recommend to anyone who asks for recommendations on a place for coffee, baked goods,...