Allegiance Coffee-Jackson Park — Restaurant in Concord

I was alone and I want so much to support local but 3.59 for basic drip coffee and those machines that pressure you to tip just isn't going to work. Period. How do you overcome some of that? Atmosphere and service and variety. I wanted to sit and relax a bit with a pastry also and aside from being alone, service, seating and baked goods is extremely limited and so unprofessional. The woman and girl at the basic makeshift counter were sad looking and not cheerful and were not welcoming. It's like a mom & daughter are running on a shoestring and operating off a home kitchen counter. I was handed a carton of cream at counter then go to another counter to get sugar. Cute clean interior but small. Padded benches are really awkward and if someone is sitting even on one end it's weird for another to sit there. Very awkward and super unenviting. Its quiet as a library and the few others talking quietly felt weird. I think some light quiet jazz or folk or some kind of music would make a BIG...no, H.U.G.E difference. Place is in an old tired neighborhood that isn't enviting, so the draw there is limited with that too. Honestly, without upping the game and changing the seating layout and being more cheerful, this place just isn't going...

I moved here from the west coast, and I have been looking for a small coffee shop with some great coffee near home. I happened to come across Allegiance coffee when I was at a yard sale across the street. I thought I’d give it a try and I am so happy I did. It is a small gem in Concord located off Old Charlotte Road. If you are reading this, I suggest saving it on your GOOGLE maps under “want to go.” It is a must-try! It has a warm and welcoming atmosphere and the best coffee! There is plenty of seating inside and out for those of you who’d like to hang out. They also have a drive-through. The employees are friendly and accommodating. They listen to how you like your coffee or what you want in it and create the perfect drink. I generally order the pumpkin breve, which has half and half instead of milk to give it a creamier texture. The espresso is smooth and flavorful, and the pumpkin flavor is perfect, not too sweet. It is a real treat to be able to stop by in the morning and enjoy the best cup of...

I tried to like this place but it’s just so expensive. I paid as much as a diner meal serving two people for two coffees and a stale pumpkin roll portion ($17) Then I find a “convenience fee” on my receipt. When I mentioned it, I was told there was a notification about it right at the counter. The notification was a tiny hand written note facing away from the register almost intentionally placed to not be noticed. It had to be pointed out because it is not obvious at all. It’s really the audacity for me especially considering the cost in the first place. It’s insulting. When I called my credit card company they referred me to the following policy.

American Express Only government agencies, educational institutions, utility companies and rental establishments can charge credit card convenience fees.

I know it’s a small fee but just the audacity to get that last little cash grab that most never even notice. I know that the intention is to have it...