There are times that I need to bring a family member to outpatient services in Hershey. While I was waiting I would often visit the cafe that used to be in this location. Yesterday, I was in the area and realized that the cafe had changed ownership. But I was delighted to see that there was indeed still a cafe in this location.
I read the couple reviews that were online and I have to say that I'm kind of perplexed. My friend and I had a lovely morning at Englewood roasters.
We arrived just as they were opening. We were greeted warmly. And we placed our orders. I ordered a coffee and an ERC breakfast sandwich. My friend ordered hot tea and a breakfast burrito.
My sandwich was delicious. It was on a large, lightly toasted, buttery croissant. And my friend also enjoyed her burrito. In addition we shared a blueberry scone which went perfectly with our hot beverages.
I asked about the large room that used to have some additional seating. They did not have that room open yet at that point in the morning, but the cafe's general manager (who was manning the register that morning) graciously turned on the lights and gave us a mini tour explaining plans for the building and their connection to Englewood Brewery next door.
It sounds like they have put a lot of time and energy and thought into creating a beautiful venue. And I think they are off to a great start.
I also have to say that I just love how this is very conveniently situated to lots of things in Hershey, but it kind of sits back by itself. It's in a beautiful historic building. And there is plenty of parking. During warmer weather they also have a beautiful outdoor patio.
I'm looking forward to...
Read moreEdited 8-14-24: I came back again to try a bag of coffee with hopes they would have their product improved. They still don't include a roast date or even a best by date on their bags. The staff were friendly, but they indicated that bags just sat until they were sold and there wasn't any typical time new coffee beans were regularly put out. The coffee grounds barely bloomed and tasted quite stale. Potentially it is still a great location to get a drink or a bite to eat, but I wouldn't consider it a roastery.
-- Original review: Tried the buns from Sticky's and a bag of West End Blend that the cashier said they'd roasted. Family loved the buns.
Beans were affordable for local roasting ($12.50), decent quality, ok evenness of roast. No roasting date on the bag, but the grounds bloomed so probably not too old. Made a perfectly fine cup of coffee.
I'd prefer paying more for higher quality, lighter roast, and single origin with a
Read moreVery disappointing! We long anticipated the reopening after Cocoa Beanery closed. But I doubt we will be back. Maybe they are just experiencing growing pains and will improve over time. But it seems the philosophy is all wrong for a local coffee shop. There is no cozy atmosphere. It is all clean and polished. Designed for efficient through-put of cattle. And if you like espresso, forget it! It is a watered down wanna-be. They are using automated machines that do not come close to a hand crafted expresso. Yuk! Don't be fooled by the name. They do not roast their own beans. And to top it all off they have beer taps! Who ever heard of a coffee shop with beer taps???? Have a bar or have a coffee shop. But seriously, trying to do both is a losing proposition in my book. I agree with the other reviewers. It is lacking, cheaply done and chintzy. These are obviously not serious coffee people and I don’t expect this...
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