A Special Blend — Restaurant in Greensboro

A Special Blend is one of two (the other being Chez Genese downtown) recently opened establishments geared toward employing adults with developmental disabilities. Both have received unanimous rave reviews, which raises the question of how much of the praise is reflective of the quality of the experience and how much is encouragement of a commendable mission. In A Special Blend's case, the plaudits are well-deserved.

Housed between Nostra and Mythos in a shopping plaza across the street from Sheetz, A Special Blend is deceptively spacious. The inside is bright and clean with plenty of seating. Tasteful wood trim and blue coffee cup wall accents give A Special Blend one of the most inviting and distinctive interiors since Coffeeology's original iteration.

Selection and service are both excellent. A Special Blend offers coffees (drip and cold brew), mochas, lattes, chais, frappes, macchiatos, cappuccinos, hot chocolates, and teas. There are about ten different syrups available, including a few sugar free options. Those wanting something to munch on can find muffins, bagels, scones, and croissants (sweet and savory varieties). The coffee comes courtesy of Carolina Coffee Roasting while the food is sourced from local bakeries. All of it is prepped quickly and efficiently courtesy of hard-working baristas. The cashier was polite, and the manager (?) on duty was very welcoming.

For our first visit, my wife and I went with a mocha and a white mocha frappe, respectively. The drinks weren't cheap - they ran $4.95 and $4.80 - but they weren't uncompetitively priced and were very much worth the money spent. The chocolately frappe was among the better blended coffee drinks I've had anywhere while my wife reported her mocha as tasty and smooth if a bit sweet.

We had been wishing for a coffee shop in walking distance of home (sorry, Sheetz, you don't count) to arrive for quite some time, and it looks like A Special Blend will capably fill that role. Good drinks and a comfortable atmosphere would make it worthwhile even if it didn't have an admirable...

I don't know where I've been hiding all this time! I have been missing out for almost a year since they opened the doors November 2018. A Special Blend really takes the cake when it comes to community and great coffee. I stumbled upon this awesome cafe when I was visiting Mythos Grill recently. I saw the front which is right beside One Main Financial and asked me friends if this was a coffee shop... they didn't know but let me be one to tell you IT'S SO MUCH MORE!

A Special Blend provides employment opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I've worked with special needs adults and children so coming to an establishment which provides those individuals an opportunity to thrive and be a part of the community really holds a special place in my heart. They are a 501(c)3 Non-Profit so that means they rely on donations to help with their expenses. The whole place is comfy, welcoming and they even have a meeting area you can rent!

Everyone here is so nice! You really don't get to experience something like this everyday (well I guess you can if you become a regular) so if you haven't gotten a chance to stop by I highly recommend it. You won't be sorry! They have some of the sweetest folks working here and it's such a great feeling to know that something good is going on here.

I was doing some research and did you know that over 80% of people with developmental disabilities are unemployed? Places like A Special Blend hopes to change that by giving those people a chance to thrive.

Food wise I ordered a Bacon, Egg and Cheese Bagel Sandwich. It really tasted wonderful. Drink wise I ordered a caramel frappe it was wonderful. If you've never gotten a chance to stop by I hope you will. It's a totally different environment than anything I've ever experienced before and I simply love it. I plan on frequenting this place as much as possible in the...

Stepping into "A Special Blend" is like entering a haven where great coffee and compassion blend seamlessly. This coffee shop holds a special place in our hearts, not just for its exceptional brews and service, but for the extraordinary mission it stands for.

Founded with the noble purpose of showcasing the capabilities of special needs or "handicapable" individuals, "A Special Blend" goes beyond being just a coffee shop; it's a symbol of inclusivity and empowerment. The staff, composed of these remarkable individuals, brings a unique warmth and authenticity to the place that is truly unparalleled.

The moment you walk in, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee welcomes you, and the friendly smiles from the staff make you feel instantly at home. The commitment to quality is evident in every cup they serve, with a range of meticulously crafted beverages that cater to every palate.

What sets "A Special Blend" apart is not just the excellence in coffee but the genuine sense of community they foster. The dedication to providing meaningful employment opportunities to individuals who are often overlooked in the job market is both commendable and inspiring.

It's heartening to see a business that not only prioritizes outstanding service but also actively contributes to the well-being and empowerment of its employees. "A Special Blend" is more than a coffee shop; it's a beacon of inclusivity, a testament to the strength of diversity, and a reminder that every cup of coffee can make a positive impact.

Supporting "A Special Blend" isn't just about enjoying a fantastic cup of coffee; it's about being part of a movement that celebrates the abilities and potential of every individual. This coffee shop has become a cherished part of our routine, and we leave with not just a satisfied palate but also with hearts full of gratitude for the beautiful souls behind...