Mercies Coffee — Restaurant in Madison

This morning I had cravings for Cool Beans Coffee food and drinks, so I headed over towards the East Towne Mall area (Off of Eagan Rd) to then remember that they closed… like over half a decade ago; I was groggy and in a sentimental mood this morning.

Anyway, I found Mercies Coffee has replaced Cool Beans Coffee. Initially, I grumbled wishing it was Cool Beans as I entered into the shop. My eye was drawn to the fireplace, the same one that I sat by during my childhood. Comfort overcame my disheartened heart as I stumbled my way to the barista who greeted with a simple but endearing smile.

I explained to her that I have never been there, so it would take me a minute before I ordered. She nodded her head as she gracefully waited for me to analyze the menu and decide.

I ordered a breakfast burrito and this barista had a docile personality that welcomed my distracted mind. She asked if I wanted a drink; because she was so easy to be with I decided to order a hot chocolate just like I did at Cool Beans. She up sale me, and I was ok with it.

Now, the hot chocolate comes to my table with a lovely white heart (from the milk, I believe). At this point I cannot withstand a smile. The burrito came and it was a great flavor, but it felt more like a panini when I ate it even though it was tortilla. Regardless, it was good I’d give it a 9/10.

This breakfast comes with a salad. Going to be honest, I’m not a salad/greens person… but the pickled onions intrigued me. So, I tried it. It was decent, but I wouldn’t pay extra for it because I don’t eat salads.

Food and drink was great. The atmosphere was delightful with the open space, morning daylight filling the rooms with a glow, and the people were courteous and normal… unlike some cafes where the customers can be unbearable.

They do raise awareness about sex trafficking in WI, not just a paper that says if you see something say something. There was a whole wall that provides resources and details about the issue. I thought that was cool and mindful of them.

The bathroom was clean and appropriately sized.

Now, I do have to say I was disappointed by the water… it was room temperature… eww. I would suggest the cafe to add ice to their water, but until then I’d recommend bringing your own water bottle.

Overall, I’d come back and recommend it. It is not Cool Beans, but I think I can create new memories...

I want to start by saying I’ve always enjoyed this place and have supported it since it first opened; back when it was Cool Beans, it used to be one of my favorite spots. My husband and I have frequently come here for coffee and pastries, often with friends, and we’ve always appreciated the welcoming vibe.

This time, however, we decided to try their veggie sandwich. I have severe meat allergies, so I’m usually very cautious about eating out. Since the owner was at the sandwich bar that morning, I felt comfortable ordering. After enjoying the first sandwich, we decided to order another one to take home. At that point, the owner was making other sandwiches, likely containing meat. My husband kindly approached her to remind her not to cross contaminate, as my allergy is serious. She acknowledged his request.

However, both my husband and I were seated in clear view of the sandwich station and were closely watching the process. We did not see her change gloves before handling the bread for our sandwich. When my husband pointed this out, she bluntly insisted she had changed them; even though we clearly saw otherwise as our eyes were fixed on her. Because of this, I couldn’t risk eating the sandwich, and unfortunately, we ended up throwing it away.

What made this more disappointing was the way the situation was handled. We’ve always received kind and friendly service from the staff especially one of the male employees who’s consistently warm and welcoming. In fact, their customer service is the main reason we kept coming back, even though we had noticed the owner’s attitude being dismissive in the past. I didn’t realize she was the owner until much later, and even then, we chose to support the business because of the great team she has working there.

As someone with dietary restrictions, I’ve had prior interactions with the owner where I had to double-check my order (such as ensuring nondairy milk), and her tone has consistently come off as irritated or impatient. While I wish this business success, I truly hope the owner reconsiders how she interacts with customers especially those with medical dietary needs. Running a customer-facing business requires empathy, patience, and attention to detail, and unfortunately that was lacking in our experience from the owner. Not coming...

First of all I’d like to thank the owner Mallory for always accommodating me and letting me spend HOURS here.

Drinks: Coffee - amazing (Nursing student who LIVES off of GOOD coffee). Side note, I know some reviews are commenting on the price, I feel that the menu shows the charges? Matcha - amazing (I’m from Hawaii and I’m asian lol. 10/10 on the matcha). Smoothies - great. The perfect blend of sweet and healthy.

Food: If you are like me and have no self-control, don’t do it. The food is yummy.

Staff: 
They all seem to love their jobs and are always laughing and smiling. Not once have I ever heard of complaints about customer service. (I’m here all the time… explain later) I’ve also noticed that they make it a habit to memorize their customer’s name and treat them more than just a number. Mallory seems like a good boss to work for and treats her employees and customers with absolute respect. Ross - I feel like he helps Mallory RUN this place. He ensures a good flow of the shop. Maya - Beautiful smile and personality Corey - Always chipper Kaitlyn with the awesome hair - Great Barista!

Atmosphere: This is what kept me coming back. I’m in Wisconsin for the summer, and I need a place to study and focus without feeling rushed out the door. I also needed a place that wasn’t too noisy and not too packed. There are all sorts of tables and bar tops that people can study/work at. As a student, I can study for 6+ hours at one time in one spot. There’s a couch, and other comfy chairs, too if you want that nice comfort/work balance. Again, the staff never made me feel uncomfortable...