Drifter Coffee — Restaurant in Ferndale

I don’t know what’s going on w this place sadly. The last time I brought a friend, she got really bad vibes from the workers (which I get - they aren’t friendly or kind). I came in June 16th around 11am and again, not good vibes from the employees.

And I don’t want to tip so high for bad service or service that makes ME feel bad about myself. So stop forcing us to tip on your machines. It makes us feel uncomfortable and especially after rude employees, I don’t want to be forced or coerced into tipping because that’s how your machines are set up to coerce people into tipping specific amounts. STOP.

Also, maybe pay your employees LIVABLE WAGES so you don’t have to coerce people into tipping them and paying their salaries which the owners won’t do properly. *And yes, it can be done. Sister Pie in Detroit doesn’t allow their customers to tip bc they pay them livable wages AND their prices are the same as yours (some things even cheaper). Not to mention their employees are genuinely kind and nice. No weird or creepy or judgmental attitudes like when I come here :(

That being said, I know it was harsh, but I expect a lot from you guys. Your decor is fabulous, your open about wanting equality and fairness for all. I love that your shop stands up for those who need it most. Thank you for that, I just hope the vibes are...

We all have the right to exist. We all have the right to our beliefs. We all matter. That is how I feel each and every time I walk into Drifter Coffee. Drifter Coffee is my happy place. I am a resident of Farmington Hills and have absolutely no problem with making the commute to surround myself with the warm welcoming environment at Drifter Coffee. When given a choice between spending roughly $3-$5 for a drink at a common Starbucks or at a cool local business, I'd rather support the community. There have been many times when I just wasn't having a good day and, no matter what, I'd always feel better after having spent some time at Drifter Coffee. The vibe is chill, the snacks and drinks are amazing, and the employees are highly considerate. What I admire most at Drifter Coffee is that no matter how challenging a situation may be, they are not rude to their customers. They do their best and that's all I can ask of a local business trying to serve their community. I also enjoy their community events such as the book club and open mic night. Attending these have contributed greatly to helping me let go of some of my own social anxieties and to use my voice more. I love how Drifter Coffee supports diversity within appropriate boundaries of respecting individuals as human beings and even...

Drifter: Where Coffee Meets Contemplation

Tucked away like a well-kept secret, Drifter is the kind of coffee shop that seems to exist in its own little world—one where time slows down just enough for you to notice the swirl of steam rising from your cup and the flaky perfection of a freshly baked croissant. It’s open even on the coldest, most unforgiving winter days, which makes it feel like a warm hug when the world outside is grey and unfriendly.

The pastries are not just good—they’re delightful. Like, you’ll-text-a-friend-mid-bite delightful. But be warned: you’re not the only one who’s caught on. The place fills up fast, often buzzing with laptop-tapping creatives and digital nomads sipping lattes while solving the world’s problems—one flat white at a time. Yes, they have WiFi. Yes, it’s reliable. No, you probably won’t find a seat at 10 a.m. on a Saturday unless you’re lucky or spiritually aligned with the coffee gods.

Still, there’s something about Drifter that makes the search for a table feel like part of the ritual. It’s not just a spot to caffeinate—it’s a vibe, a refuge, a fleeting pause in a too-fast world. It’s where I go when I want to feel cozy, clever, and just the right amount of inspired. Even if I end up balancing my espresso on a windowsill, it’s always...