Alba is my absolute favorite neighborhood coffee shop in Corktown. The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by stunning local artwork that transforms the walls into a gallery, with vibrant paintings that spark great conversations. The exposed brick walls, cozy seating areas with charming ladder-back chairs, and thoughtful details like dried flower arrangements create the perfect blend of rustic charm and refined comfort.
Their pastry game is very unique and full of variety - from flaky croissants to concha bread, everything is beautifully presented and tastes even better than it looks. The impressive variety means there’s always something new to try, and you can tell they put real care into every detail, right down to how they wrap their famous Alba egg sandwich (which is insanely addictive).
This isn’t just a coffee shop - it’s a community hub where you can sit and read or just chill for hours and feel completely at ease. The baristas are incredibly friendly and welcoming, making every visit feel like you’re being greeted by old friends. Alba has mastered the art of creating a space that feels both polished and unpretentious, making it exactly the kind of local business that makes Corktown even more special. Highly recommend Alba to anyone looking for quality coffee, delicious pastries, and a truly...
Read moreI had the pleasure of visiting this wonderful coffee shop and was immediately greeted by Valerie and Julia with warm smiles and excellent service. They graciously answered all my inquiries about the shop and showcased impressive knowledge about their products.
The espresso prepared by Valerie was truly exceptional; it was impeccably balanced and boasted a delightful Peruvian natural flavor profile.
The shop itself is impeccably clean, with just the right level of background music to create a welcoming atmosphere. It was evident that the customers inside were enjoying themselves, adding to the overall positive vibe. The menu is refreshingly simple, and outdoor seating is available for those who prefer to bask in the sun while sipping their coffee. Plus, the array of coffee selections available for purchase is impressive.
Both Valerie and Julia excelled not only in their service but also in their engaging greetings and conversations, further enhancing my experience.
Additionally, I found the baristas to be incredibly helpful when it came to selecting coffee roasts, demonstrating a genuine passion for their craft.
Overall, my visit to this coffee shop was nothing short of exceptional. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking outstanding service, delicious coffee, and a...
Read moreI know this place well as the old Astro Coffee and I've always loved this location. The Cortado I ordered was good. The customer service was pretty non existent. I was the only customer in line and two employees were at the counter. Neither spoke to me (I gave it a moment) . I had to speak first to order and even then my server barely spoke back. I didn't feel welcome and didn't tip...which is super rare for me. It's possible I caught them on a bad day. I just hate feeling like I'm bugging people on their job, especially when food and drink are involved. I'll give them...
Read more