La Colombe Coffee Workshop — Restaurant in Chicago

I came on a busy Saturday afternoon when the place was jam-packed, but I shuffled through the crowd to the counter and ordered a cup of coffee anyway. It was a regular brew, and it was excellent--good and strong, but not the least bit bitter, as it usually tends to be in lesser places. I was disappointed that they only had half and half in the cream dispenser, but Trebor, the nice manager, offered to top off my cup with hot milk, which I really appreciated. That was a nice gesture. Customer service is stellar: I hadn't expected a cafe in this upscale area to be so customer-oriented and friendly (you won't find any hoity-toity employees in this cafe, thank heavens). Then, not finding anywhere to sit, I was once again helped by Trebor, who suggested I sit near the large window--the one with the nice view overlooking the street that happens to be located right next to one of the bathrooms. I took his advice and sat me down and stretched my legs out on the window seat, and as far as I'm concerned, it's the best seat in the house. I enjoyed myself so much, I stopped by again the next day, and was served by Melissa and Ralph. Again, customer service was tops. This time I had the almond croissant with my superb brewed coffee, and it was as good as any I'd ever had. As on the previous day, I sat down on the quiet, secluded window seat and enjoyed a lovely cupper and pastry as I looked out the window, and mused, and chilled out. Highly recommended for wonderful coffee and pastries, and an...

If you're in any kind of hurry, or want to get a cup of coffee before the heat death of the universe, do yourself a favor and go somewhere else. Second time I've been here, and it will be the last. Both times, I've stood waiting while the cashier just la-de-daahed talking and talking and talking to another customer. Doesn't matter if there's a multi-person line. Today, stood for five minutes while he talked about the most inane things with someone who sloooooooowly pulled out a notebook to take notes of whatever he was saying. Then they talked fashion. Then she finally started to place an order, and then...they started discussing the various pastries at which point I noped out, walked across the street to Fox Trot and got a cup of coffe...

So here’s the thing... I love the espresso flavor and since I drink decaf its all about the flavor and this shop has the best flavor espresso! However, this location also has the best employee of all the La Colombe locations I’ve visited ( and I have to say they are not so many friendly people working there especially one in Andersonville ) I was so pleased that the guy remembered what i order even though this is not my frequent location, he step to the counter as I was ready to order with the girl at the register and ask me “Decaf Americano”? I was really wowed but I cannot remember his name. Very handsome young man with glasses ... great work!...