Brown Dog Coffee Company — Restaurant in Salida

Usually a wonderful experience, and definitely excellent coffee, but until the auburn barista is either removed or quits, we will not return.

Granted, we were there about fifteen minutes prior to closing, on a holiday weekend, in a completely packed Salida, but we've not seen such lack of professionalism as was endured because of her, in quite some time.

Upon the stroke of six, this employee became giddy, remarking loudly that it was now her favorite part of the day, as she skipped over to close the door and put up the closed sign.

We were not the only other patrons present at this point either. There was another group present, who hastily gathered their things and ended up finishing their beverages and food on a bench outside. As well as another woman trying to exit at that moment who actually vocalized, "Ok, give me a chance to get out first", as she was being ushered out the door by the staff member.

We would have been even quicker to leave, but alas, in addition to needing the use of the restroom facilities, after spending $20 on various items, we had to remind the staff we were waiting on them for items not yet prepared.

It was obvious the two other women were not in support of this one and her manner, but neither did anything to remedy the discomfort of their patrons.

Brown Dog is good, but not worth it with someone working there as unpleasant as she. And no, no name. None of the staff have ID displayed.

So, in a word, eh hem,...

Updates 6/25 Stopped in with the family and were extremely disappointed. Coffees and lattes were 50,000⁰ and were effectively hot brown water (per the MIL). No flavor, no caffeine. We dumped them and went to the cat place down the road for a good coffee. This spot used to be the bee's knees, but avoid it unless you only want a scone. The MIL enjoyed the scone. The lattes had zero foamed milk, so unsure how they were lattes. No milky sensation, no foam (see pic), just a mess to which heat has been applied. The cup was full, but it is unclear sure what of. Even the vibe of the place is sad, we'll skip it next time and we suggest you do the same unless something dramatic transpires. Several other very good coffee shops in the area, highly suggest you investigate them.

Old post: Stopped in for a for a fix just the other day, and, as usual, we weren't disappointed. Excellent service, excellent drinks, AND they have a few gluten free options (they even have dog options--there are antler chews that you can scoop up for Fido...delicious!). We've been coming here since 2010 and have been very happy each time we go (maybe it's the caffeine?), and tell our friends. Thank you for doing such a great job and keep up...

5 stars for location and atmosphere, -3 stars for the actual product, -1 star for the decor**. In general, we worked here for a few days and did not find any other great working spots in Salida (wifi and power). This was the best work-location we found.

Good seating, power, great wifi, downtown, cool old building with some of the original wood trim and a copper ceiling.

** The coffee was incredibly weak. I can't stress this enough. Hot water is comparable. Tried a dark drip and a 3-shot red eye with a dark coffee, both resembled gas-station-weak coffee. I did notice that the espresso wasn't even lightly pressed into portafilter, just ground into it. But still. Gas station coffee.

• Yep. Decorated with faux marble paint and some stenciled words. Straight outta home owner's...