Sierra Mountain Coffee Cafe — Restaurant in Grass Valley

I wish I had a better review to write. I used to frequent this location many years ago as a student and had a lot of great moments and beverages, oh how the great have fallen. I went to visit this location to grab a quick bite and some cafine. Unfortunately, neither happened.

As I walk in, I notice a very large politically charged blue livesatter banner and try to pay no mind to it. As I make my way into the shop I see another one right where all the nice art used to be. And to be very clear, I'm not about to argue the simantics of cops and the ethics, that's not what this is about. But to be willing to openly admit AS A BUSINESS that you think you can compare a career path to the skin tone you where born with is beyond me.

As a black man who has had many positive interactions with law enforcement, I still think it's incredibly offensive to compare the tone of my skin to a potential optional career path. Fundamentally the two are not comparable. Unfortunately this speak very poorly of the new ownership and management of this business but that's not even the worst part.

As I walk into the beloved coffee shop that I once knew I realize that not a single person was wearing a mask. This is important because I just came from the hospital where my pregnant wife was being treated for early contractions, thankfully everything was wrapped up there and she was all taken care of with great help. But I couldn't help feeling sick to my stomach watching the employees the management and all the staff not wearing masks interacting with people way too closely and especially coughing all over the food that I was going to order. I turned...

Cute and cozy little coffee cafe, friendly staff, and an assortment of baked goods + yummy looking breakfast burritos etc.

I do wish places had more of a selection for those of who can’t eat eggs, dairy, wheat. But they’re happy to do their best to accommodate upon ordering.

When I try coffee houses I like to see how my Oat milk Cortado will taste first. I have to say major thumbs up with smooth coffee. After being in Portland, OR for the last decade I’m sooo thrilled to find a place in GV that knows a good roast!

I’ll be back to try a list of items and let ya’ll know. 🙃☕️

UPDATE on 5/4/24 @10:15am… Please give a reminder lesson to staff on what a Cortado is. I ordered my usual and the sales gal yells to the barista “just four shots”. I say, “don’t forget the oat milk”. (She acknowledges) Then I get my 4 shots only 🤦🏼‍♀️ I tell her she forgot my cookie and the oat milk, then proceeds to pull the refrigerated oat milk out, set it on the counter for me to pour, and walks away… 🤔 seriously ? At that point I walked out quietly cause I don’t want cold milk in my hot espresso. 🙄 I know employees can have bad days, so a friendly pep talk to have them pay attention to the details is all I hope for 😊

See ya next time and...

What a very unique coffee spot! Running any biz is tough and mistakes are made, but it’s not ever making mistakes that brings success, it’s how a mistake is handled that creates loyalty. I stopped by my first time just for a cup of coffee and was given a cup to self-serve — which I like — but two of the three options were empty. Yet, the staff on shift were super accommodating and prompt getting fresh brews made ASAP, and even bringing a cup to my table with a smile. They also recognized and referred to many regulars by name while I was there. Clearly they care about people and their product. Epic pastries, good coffee, kitsch decor and super cleanliness would make me a regular if I lived just a bit closer. Keep up the...