I've been visiting Scorpion Hearts club for the last year, and here is why I stopped going there altogether. Many from Grand Rapids love this little coffee shop, formerly known as Sparrows. However, I have experienced some things and have learned a lot that puts a bad taste in my mouth. We as a community are obligated to support and protect each other and that includes making sure everyone is entitled to a living wage.
In the past year, many baristas that I have come to know and talk to have left. I overheard an interview in which I learned that the starting wage for Scorpion Hearts club is $9. Ask yourself if you could live off of that. Now, you may say, but tips! "So many people tip and this brings their wages up significantly." While tipping can help, it is not promised and I do not believe that any worker should have to rely on tips to make a living wage. No one should have to rely on a stranger to tip them $3 so they can pay their bills. I have also witnessed several times where there was only one poor barista during a rush and had 10+ coffees to make themselves.
I also want to point out that with the returned ownership, all the drinks went up in price, however, the workers still make $9/hr. I urge this company to take a hard look at themselves and question if they cannot pay their workers fairly, do they deserve to own a business? Multiple other small businesses AND large franchises pay a higher base rate.
Besides this, there are many other instances that made me uncomfortable and turned me off of this establishment. If you are counting on the wifi to do work, you might as well never come here. On average, the wifi has to be reset multiple times in a 3-4 hour basis and I often felt like I was being a nuisance by asking them to check it. Much easier to just go somewhere where I know the wifi is reliable. I would recommend they upgrade or get rid of it all together.
Please remember that small business ā ethical practices and I urge you to be an informed consumer. Try a different shop that treats their employees and guests fairly. The coffee is okay, but there's great coffee...
Ā Ā Ā Read moreThe Sparrows is a cozy coffee/tea shop in Eastown with plants hanging all around and is a beacon of warmth in the cold weather. While parking is a little difficult to find, it's worth it, especially for how easy it is to spend an hour or two here chatting with a friend, crafting, or getting some work done. They have samples of all their tea options to see which you'd like to try, and their rotating lattes are delightful. This visit was he first time I had one of their baked goods, but the brownie I got was absolutely delicious.
The cozy atmosphere doesn't compromise seating, and there was a low hum of conversation that provided a pleasant atmosphere while I and my friend were there. Indie magazines and books/periodicals are available for purchase, and there's always posters in the back area, near the bathroom, advertising for various theater productions or concerts around the area.
All in all, The Sparrows is a great place to hang out, and it's atmosphere is both relaxing and pleasant. I thoroughly enjoy each visit, and will certainly...
Ā Ā Ā Read moreThis coffee shop is definitely one of my favorites in the area, and there are many reasons why.
First and foremost, the atmosphere at Scorpion Hearts Club is absolutely fantastic. It's a cozy and welcoming space that feels like a home away from home. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to work or a place to catch up with friends, this coffee shop is perfect.
And of course, the coffee itself is top-notch. The baristas at Scorpion Hearts Club really know their stuff and take pride in creating the perfect cup of coffee every time. You're sure to be impressed by the quality and attention to detail that goes into each and every drink.
Overall, I would highly recommend Scorpion Hearts Club to anyone looking for a great coffee shop in Grand Rapids. With its welcoming atmosphere, top-notch coffee and food, and friendly staff, it's the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a great...
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