Man, I really want to love this place, but I just can’t get all the way behind it. Aesthetic is great, atmosphere is great, food is good, but the PRICES. WOW.
For context- I have worked in specialty coffee for 9 years as a roaster, barista, quality grader etc. Surry Hills uses coffee from Great Circle, a local specialty roaster who you can find in joints like Zak The Baker and other specialty cafes and restaurants. From shop to shop, you’ll generally pay a little bit of a premium for the better quality— but Surry Hills, the math ain’t mathin’ on these margins….
Please tell me how a 14 oz iced oat vanilla latte (with manufactured monin syrups) comes out $9.50 before tip. I’d be getting roughly 2oz of espresso— that’s about 18 grams of coffee beans— with some oat milk and vanilla and this is worth $9.50? Mind you, we all know the iced latte is composed of mostly ice anyways.
If we’re talking about an outstanding presentation, house made syrups, and HIGH scoring specialty coffees with some crazy sort of fermentation, then yes, TAKE MY MONEY. I’m all for spending $9 on coffee that is worth it. But guys, you’re making the most basic of basic beverages here and charging an outrageous premium on them.
For reference, you can get the same EXACT drink build with a house made syrup at other locations and it’s gonna run you like $5-$7 at most.
Also— the prices on your board aren’t even accurate. The board has a latte listed at $6. Make it make sense, PLEASE.
Lastly— just overall service does not incline me to want to pay this premium. The baristas feel standoffish, there just isn’t any passion to match the price point. If I’m spending $9.50 plus tip for a drink….really just overall curious as to what cut of that is reflected in the baristas pay. I hope they are making a livable wage here, because I’m inclined to think management and ownership is certainly making a pretty penny considering the margins here.
I’ve never, in 9 years of experience, had beef with coffee prices being high. I encourage roasters and consumers to pay more for coffee, because the farmer/producer deserves a higher cut and so does the barista. But knowing the general rate of this roaster already, this price felt absurd to me. Transparency is key here, and I feel like when you’ve got competing concepts using the same products and charging substantially less, there needs to be some accountability and transparency as to why your version of the same thing is so much more valuable.
Curious and hopeful for a response with some degree of transparency and honesty from ownership...
Read moreSurry Hills Coffee: A Hidden Gem in Miami
If you’re searching for the perfect coffee spot in Miami, look no further than Surry Hills Coffee. This unique and vibrant café stands out not just for its exceptional coffee but also for the warm, welcoming atmosphere created by its amazing owners. Their dedication and hard work shine through in every aspect of the experience.
Walking into Surry Hills Coffee, you’ll immediately sense the cool, laid-back vibe. It’s the ideal spot for meeting friends, taking a break from the hustle and bustle, or getting some serious work done on your laptop. The café is thoughtfully designed with plenty of cozy nooks and comfortable seating, making it a great place to settle in and be productive.
What sets Surry Hills Coffee apart are its incredible pop-up events. These gatherings bring together a diverse crowd of cool, like-minded individuals, creating a community feel that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether it’s a local artist showcase, or a themed coffee tasting, there’s always something exciting happening here.
The coffee itself is, of course, top-notch. Each cup is brewed to perfection, reflecting the owners’ passion and expertise. Pair your drink with one of their delicious dishes, pastries or snacks, and you’re in for a treat that will keep you coming back for more.
Surry Hills Coffee is truly a gem in Miami’s coffee scene. With its unique blend of great coffee, welcoming people, and a vibrant community atmosphere, it’s a place that quickly becomes a favorite for anyone who walks through its doors. Don’t miss out on experiencing this exceptional spot...
Read moreI was craving breakfast in an early afternoon after a day at the beach, browsed my bookmarked spots and decided to bet on Surry given they serve breakfast all day, even though it was out of my way back home.
This spot is located in El Portal, a neighborhood that is starting to get gentrified.
I was greeted upon arrival and the order was quickly placed at the cashier. The restaurant is spotless and with the right vibes, even the bathroom was super clean.
I was debating between the breakfast egg sandwich and croissant egg sandwich but settled for the sandwich. My friend got the peach burrata sandwich.
We also had lattes and a guava cheese danish to-go. There is not complete pastry selection in Miami if the guava and cheese are missing, hence had to try their guava and cheese danish.
The two sandwiches were delicious. The egg sandwich with the sausage, that was the perfect bite. That egg was so fluffy, I wish I can replicate this at home. The peach burrata sandwich, I think they use canned peach, I couldn’t determine, but I don’t think it was fresh, I think it would be a winner sandwich if more peach/fresh notes came forward. But overall, it was a great sandwich, that fresh basil they used, it is a great addition.
The lattes were 5+ out of 5. The coffee is well-balanced. Strength, acidity and aroma were all coming together and complementing each other.
The danish, I had it at home, it was just perfect. Saltines from the cheese and the right amount of sweetness from the guava on a buttery dough, oh boy, so good.
I can see now how they are within the top 100 breakfast places...
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