Love Coffee — Restaurant in Columbia

I decided to eat here based on past reviews. I came in on a Saturday and it was not crowded. I stood at the counter, was greeted and then the cashier pulled out her phone and started playing on it. I figured she was just passing the time while I ordered. I looked at the menu for a minute and then turned towards her ready to order. She was still playing on her phone and didn't look up to acknowledge me. I made a noise to get her attention and then she looked up and put the phone away. I ordered a bagel sandwich and a mocha. They gave me a number and told me to sit and someone will bring my order to me. I sat down and waited. Got the sandwich first and waited a few more minutes for the mocha, still no mocha. I got up and walked to the register, where I saw a random drink sitting alone on the counter. I looked at the cashier and she glanced at me and told me that was my drink and she was not sure why they didn't bring it over. She told me I could take it. I was annoyed that they just left it there. The place isn't in the best spot so unless they move, they won't be able to maintain business. Their customer service is lacking, so other than the free wifi, there's not much that makes this place stand out. The food doesn't taste that great. No seasoning or flavor....

I tried Love Coffee for the first time through the Too Good To Go app, and I’m really glad I did. The egg sandwich on a croissant was hands down my favorite—super tasty and filling. I also got two muffins and a scone, and everything was fresh and really good. I didn’t get a coffee this time, but the menu had a bunch of cool flavors I’d love to try on my next visit.

The café itself is super cute and cozy, with string lights and a chill vibe. There’s even a little stage where they host open mic nights and dance lessons, which is such a fun touch. It seems like a great spot to hang out with friends or just take a break during the day. Parking was no problem at all—they have a lot, and it wasn’t crowded. The staff was also friendly and I experienced quick service.

One of the coolest things I learned is that Love Coffee is more than just a café—they also help people with disabilities and other barriers to employment by offering job training and work experience. I think that’s amazing and definitely makes me want to keep coming back. Can’t wait to go again and try the...

Dined in. I ordered a Caramel Latte and Turkey Sandwich. I purposely asked for my coffee in a ceramic cup. Why? To observe the quality of the drink. The shot or two pulled wasn't the best quality. The espresso wasn't overpowered, but was merely stale, or stagnant. It didn't have richness or flavor. I considered that this could be due to the presence of milk or caramel, but I dismissed that notion because a quality pulled shot would have rich flavor too and these variables would merely enhance the flavor. Ultimately, the drink was okay. There was no latte art in the cup, to my disappointment. This shop is either relatively new and therefore inexperienced, or too busy to care. Furthermore, the crema I did observe in the drink was minimal.

Lastly, the sandwich was okay, I've had better sandwiches at Schnucks (Former Eat Well) on Providence. It did have a faint taste of fishiness. Not sure if it was the turkey or the lettuce.

Therefore, I don't plan on taking my lunch/brunch at Love Coffee again, and am still searching around Columbia for high...