Rising Star Coffee Roasters — Restaurant in Cleveland

Coffee was average at best. I ordered a Cortado which is equal parts espresso and steamed milk. Some places you can request it to be more customized ... not here. I would have liked turbinado sugar in the bottom of the cup first, then the expresso poured on top, then foam. It changes the taste completely. I also like a pinch of salt ... very common is Europe and Cuba (it cuts the bitterness, which was definitely needed with the roast and bean they use) afterall we copying a beverage from another country. The employee just said no, right after I tipped due to this place has a barista who is handmaking the drinks. The overall taste was very bitter ... for this style if drink, the hot foam should have cut the bitterness. I asked if they had any salt, got a look like I had 3 heads ... the station to add sugar used wooded spoons. I personally was disappointed due to the environmental impact of just my order. . (Paper cup, paper sugar packets, plastic lid, and wooden spoon.) I will give the credit the had a glass marked dirty spoon, but I watched most patrons toss theirs in the trash. I was never asked if this was a to go order, so I unsure if they even offer coffee in a washable cup with metal flatware and yes I would have preferred to sit down but they have very limited sitting space or tables inside. I'll be trying other locations for my next visit to Cleveland. The overall experience in the place also lacked friendliness ... no "thank you" was spoken ... I guess the request for salt still had...

This is my favorite coffee shop in Cleveland. I used to go to Phoenix; however had a couple poor experiences when requesting specialty drinks which urged me to try Rising Star. The location is nice as it doesn't pick up as much foot traffic as East 9th, East 4th, or Euclid during the lunch hours. This usually ends up in faster service. They also rotate drip , cold brews and pour over coffees all while identifying the flavor notes that make each unique.

One of the nice additions here is that they use local dairy options that really adds to the consistency and flavor of any drink where they are used. I know some of the other items (honey, cookies, etc) are also locally sourced; however I simply don't order drinks with those items. I have also found the staff to be friendly and they will take the time to explain what is on the menu.

The one downside I find is that the price point is a bit higher than most other downtown coffee shops. I do think you get a great quality and service for the price; however those getting coffee on a budget may find this a little hard...

I'm going to start simple and then get more nerdy. The coffee was delicious and crafted with love by friendly, knowledgeable baristas. I ordered an espresso from Oaxaca, Mexico and a pour over (made in a Kalita Wave) from Yirgacheffe, Ethiopia. The barista's espresso technique was flawless. It resulted in a well balanced cup that was bright without any unpleasant sour or astringent tastes that you sometimes get with lighter roast espressos. It was sweet and filled my mouth with delicious and rich espresso flavor. While the espresso was pretty crowd pleasing, the pour over was more of a daring coffee. However, if you're familiar with Ethiopian coffees, this will be a familiar coffee drinking experience. It was full bodied and bright with refreshing blueberry notes. If you're looking to try something new, this would be an friendly and knowledgeable place to dip your toe into the wider world of coffee. If you're looking for classic coffee bar beverages, you'll also be pleased. Thanks for the...