BIG ENERGY Cafe — Restaurant in Florida

I will start with the food and coffee are great. Zero complaints there. I gave 3 stars, even though I had a terrible experience, because the cashier was very kind and polite and the actual food was good.

I went here because of the great reviews and because I generally try to eat healthy and support small business. That said, from the moment I walked in, there was a frantic energy from who I assume is the owner in the air.

As I was ordering, the owner kept interrupting the cashier and undermining him in front of the customers. She wasn’t quiet or subtle about it. The cashier was very polite and did tell me they were backed up and it would be about a 20 minute wait. No problem. I was on my way to a job and had 25 minutes to make it in time, so that was within a reasonable window to me.

As I waited outside, I heard at least 2 people leave and say “never coming back again”. When a spot opened up inside to wait, I sat down there and that’s when I really felt the bad vibes. The woman in charge was just constantly belittling these poor employees (who are all kids). She would borderline yell at them and accuse them of being rude, when they were all perfectly polite. After 30 minutes, I asked about my food. The nice cashier apologized and said they were backed up when, once again, the presumed owner interrupted and said he told me it would be 30 mins and I agreed to that wait. I told her he told me 20, not 30. She then said “it was 30 to even start your order”. After that she began to yell at her employees in Spanish (I am fluent as well) “for the love of God, I don’t know how, but I need you to work faster”. It felt as though she took all her stress out on them, and it was really sad to watch.

I watched her talk to what I can only assume was a friend or regular as she loudly proclaimed “we’re just doing our best. I cry after every shift, you know? You work in the service industry, so you get it.” I’m sorry, but that’s just so unprofessional. These are not conversations you have in front of paying customers. And she speaks very loudly, almost as though she wants people to hear?

As I began to walk out of the cafe, someone came in and they informed her they were not taking any more orders. They seemed to understand. But then the owner said “yeah, I’ve turned away about $500 worth of business”. Just not information you share with a prospective patron.

I know the name is “Big Energy Cafe”, but I wasn’t expecting big BAD energy. It’s really too bad, because it has the potential to be wonderful. The actual products are great. But with the owner putting out that stress and unprofessionalism for all the patrons to experience, it’s really just a shame. I am a business owner in a very high stress job in the service industry and I can tell you, this is not the way.

I can tell she tries and her heart may be in the right place, but this is also a business and there is a certain level of decorum expected.

Also, it was 45 minutes before I walked out with my order, so more than double the time I was told. Needless to say, I was...

BIG ENERGY café is one of my favorite spots in town! From the moment you walk in, You are greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, which reflects the passion and dedication of the owner, Barby. You can truly feel the hard work and love that she and her staff put into her café.

The menu is a refreshing break from the ordinary, featuring an incredible selection of healthy smoothies and acai bowls that cater to a variety of tastes. My favorite is the Mocha Magic Bowl, it's bursting with flavor! The ingredients are obviously top-quality, and you can taste the freshness in every bite and sip. The combinations are creative and energizing, perfect for a quick breakfast or a post-workout treat.

As a coffee lover, I was thoroughly impressed with their freshly brewed options. Each cup is made to perfection, providing that perfect pick-me-up without any of the bitterness. It’s clear that Barby and her staff is committed to maintaining the café's quality, and it shows in every detail.

What truly sets this café apart, though, is Barby herself. Her passion for health and wellness is contagious, and she takes the time to connect with her customers, ensuring everyone feels warm and welcomed. It’s inspiring to see someone so dedicated to not just running a business, but creating a vibrant community hub focused on healthy living.

If you haven’t visited BIG ENERGY café yet, I wholeheartedly recommend it. Whether you’re in the mood for a nutritious smoothie, a delicious acai bowl, or just a fantastic cup of coffee, this café is sure to impress. I’m already looking forward to...

If I could give more stars I would! Since finding Big Energy I have become a regular. Too many favorites to mention. I began with the Spicey Sunshine smoothie, it's refreshing, healthy and fabulous. Then came the tuna melt, then the chicken salad; all are delicious and made from scratch using fresh, healthy ingredients. The bakery goods are the perfect afternoon snack or light breakfast option. I buy them as goodies for friends or take a loaf of something, when she has it, for a hostess gift. I am addicted to their oatmilk shaken espresso, it is my obsessison! Second favorite is the Big Frap. Not too long ago I went to Starbucks saw oatmilk shaken espresso on their menu-- NO COMPARISON, not even remotely close to Big Energy's.

When you go should there happen to be a crowd, which occassionally can happen because it is so good; please don't complain!! An Owner has no way to know that 20 people will all walk in within 10 minutes of each other. Barbie and her team always do their best to expedite the orders and I simply wait outside in our beautiful Florida weather under an umbrella and enjoy the time to relax. Big deal if you have to wait a hot minute for the absolute best coffee, smoothie bowl, energy drink or food around. I love that Barbie and her staff know her regulars by name and she always remembers exactly what you like. This place is truly a neighborhood treasure we are blessed to have! Keep up the good work, Barbie & team, all your regulars love and...