Serene Beans — Restaurant in Katy

I cannot rave about Serene Beans enough! Located in the heart of old Katy, this eclectic coffee shop offers so much more than coffee. It's inviting and charming atmosphere includes plenty of comfortable seating throughout the home and in the backyard, an excellent assortment of drinks and treats, and a gift shop filled with handmade gifts, books, jewelry and more. In addition to the coffee house, Serene Beans is home to Fun Soaps, a masseuse and Chrysalis Counseling. Dozens of groups hold meetings throughout the coffee shop and in the meeting room, including 12 Step groups, book clubs and support groups. The monthly pop-up markets showcase local vendors and artists, and special events such as live music, murder mystery dinners and art classes make Serene Beans a favorite venue for people of all ages. The backyard is dog-friendly, too! I absolutely love Serene Beans, and...

Not exactly the serene experience I was expecting. I ordered a vanilla latte after politely declining the new white chocolate vanilla latte the owner wanted me to try. Even after I told her no thank you she repeatedly insisted it was good. I agreed it probably was a good flavor, but my wife prefers just a regular vanilla latte. To which she responds rather aggressively, “How does she know if she doesn’t even try it!” I’m thinking great, now I have to defend my order from a grouchy owner and her new product line. What really sucks is I’d already paid and left a 20% tip. The vanilla latte was okay, but the mocha was not good at all.

Oh well, there are lots of coffee shops in town. I try to support locally owned stores when possible instead of the ubiquitous coffee chain... Time to find...

Premium coffee, service, and cozy atmosphere. You won't get treated like this at Starbucks. My first time here I was surprised by their columbian blend (medium size) and they made me another to make sure I was satisfied (large size). The owner then explained that their coffee is very smooth compared to Starbucks. I then excepted an offer to try their Italian blend and I have to say that I am hooked on it. I feel no stomach pain drinking it like other coffees do. I love this dark roast because you still get a "bite", yet it's so smooth and makes you want to get many more refills. You can tell the passion that goes into running this local family owned coffee shop. I wouldn't think twice to at least try them out. For the techies I am getting a respectable 30mbs on...