Wholly Grounds — Restaurant in Dayton

(EDITED FROM PREVIOUS 5-START RATING)

Great aesthetich here. It is cozy, artistic, and trendy but not snobby. It is a good place to work/study It hasn't been "discovered" yet so it isn't too busy.

PROS:

They use a SLAYER espresso machine. The drip brew is excellent (definitely competing with Press and Ghostlight). I had the light roast and it was bright, fruity, and acidic. Clean bathrooms Handicap accessible parking Clean and uncluttered main room.

CONS:

I WITNESSED A BARISTA PICKING UP MUGS OFF THE ESPRESSO MACHINE... SWIPING HER FINGERS IN THEM AS IF LOOKING AT DIRT, THEN PUTTING THEM BACK! My drink was put in one. They forgot about a baked good I ordered. My coworkers drink took an hour to be made, after she returned to the counter twice. One customers drink took so long he asked for his money back because he had to leave. Barista argued with him about how they would make it now if he waits... The guy walked out Drinks not made in order of our but at random. They aren't using high quality coffee in the Slayer - the espresso tasted burnt and stale. Its like putting unleaded gas in a ferrari...it can be so much more... Not great parking selction; its either street parking or an EXTREMELY tight parking lot with Five...

As soon as I read that there is a new coffee shop in the neighborhood, I wanted to try it out, specially since downtown Dayton has several excellent small coffee places & thought this new one would excel as well. I visited the shop today and was impressed in some ways and not so in others. Decor is well thought and very nicely put together. Beautiful lamps! The music playing, was perfect. The chai latte I ordered was served mildly warm in a disposable cup, which was very disappointing. Although they do have china cups, I noticed that everyone there was sipping from disposable cups too. ...a small shop like this should always serve in china or glass...unless, of course, it’s to go. Flavor wise my tea was subpar...not the spicy chai I’m used to & prefer...but it was ok. Service was cordial. Will I go again? Yes. I will definitely give it another try...but if my 2nd experience matches today’s, I will most likely...

How long have I been driving past this place on my way to the three other locally owned coffee shops on this road? I'm so glad I finally noticed the sign and stopped! I love the warm seating area with plenty of table space and big front window. And I am absolutely obsessed with their spicy chai! The spice is no joke, like not just cinnamon and ginger but pepper too. You feel it in your throat! And it makes the best dirty chai I've ever had. They also have a vanilla chai if you prefer something milder. Other drinks we've tried: lattes, hot apple cider and a london fog, which tasted good but I would have preferred them strain the lavender flowers out before serving. They have lots of gluten free and vegan baked goods plus regular stuff too. I can't wait to try one of their cocktails. My new favorite coffee...