Wake the Dead Coffee House — Restaurant in San Marcos

Best coffee shop in San Marcos, if not the entire Hill Country! The staff are all knowledgeable and very helpful, whether you're really into the intricacies of making coffee or someone who just wants a nice simple cup o joe they have everything you could want. I have yet to find an iced coffee or cold brew anywhere that's as good as Wake the Dead's iced toddys, which you can get with an extra shot of concentrate if you need the extra caffeine boost. Their baked goods are made by local bakeries and are some of the best (and biggest) I've had in my decade or so living here. Their food can seem pricey, but keep in mind they don't have a full kitchen, and there are plenty of affordable options that don't break the bank (I get bagels or the chips and salsa pretty frequently). Anytime they have a soup you're interested in trying - get it!! They're made from scratch and make the perfect lunch especially when paired with a half sandwich. The most GORGEOUS back patio thanks to continued hard work from local gardeners over the years, and a cozy/inviting indoor area with walls usually covered in local artists' works. The staff are all super sweet, more than willing to explain stuff or make recommendations, and I especially appreciate how the staff has supported customers who are getting creeped on/harassed by weirdos there. Myself and others have stories of the staff coming to our defense when some creepy dude tries to hit on us or says something really out of line, I truly feel safe coming here.

A LOT of the small amount of negative reviews are flatout lies, btw. Often someone will come into the shop acting like they know better than the baristas, like they're more important than any other customer, etc, and be less than pleased when nobody - staff nor regular patrons - play into their ego trips. Often the negative reviews are left by people who treat the staff and other patrons rudely, or who bring in outside food (NEVER EVER understood why anyone would think that's okay anywhere, pretty sure even Starbucks wouldn't allow that), or who use the patio/wifi without buying even a $2 coffee. A private business is not a public park, and a place that makes/sells food and drink isn't your personal kitchen. Not sure why some people don't get that.

ANYWAY visit this place if you haven't yet! AND TIP THEM WELL!!! Best damn cold brew in the great state of Texas I...

Kitchy art cheeky baristas love the vibe here. I live in Canyon Lake TX this is a great geo mid point location for Austin-San Antonio meeting spots for friends that are spread out. I have never eaten at Wake The Dead and can't comment on the food. This is my go to coffee house because I love the ever changing artwork. I love the Tim Burton style garden sculpture. There is a stage where there are musical performances. My favorite area is the library, it's very cozy with a sofa and various size tables. The 2 negative things are on the table they post a notice that tables are for paying customers and to not bring in outside food. As a former business owner I would never post something like this. It can be dealt with on a case by case basis, employees can politely advise that they serve food and to please refrain from bringing outside food in. Assume positive intent and directly deal with the situation. The notice is an avoidance tactic so employees don't have to interact with clients. The other thing is the to go cups when you are dining in-coffee culture has changed I understand the reasons for it, however I truly believe that a ceramic coffee cup elevates the experience. If I owned a funky spot like this I would create a collection of cups from a thrift store of various sizes and design motifs. By allowing the customers to select their desired cup upon entering offers a very unique interactive experience that is memorable and will create conversations in...

Disappointing Experience at a Promising Spot

I was really excited to try wake the dead coffee house because it looked like a great spot to study, especially with its late hours. However, my experience ended up being quite disappointing.

When I first arrived, I got out of my car with some food from Chick-fil-A, but noticed the signs indicating no outside food or drinks, so I made sure to finish my meal in my car. After that, I brought in my water cup, but within a minute of entering, an employee approached me and asked me to throw it away. She explained that they sell water there, which I understand, but I felt the interaction could have been more polite and understanding since I had already been considerate about not bringing in any outside food or drinks.

Despite this, I didn’t want to let it ruin my visit, so I threw the water cup away and proceeded to the counter to order. Unfortunately, the temperature inside was uncomfortably hot—around 90 degrees—and after standing there for a while with no one coming to assist us, we decided to leave. It was really disappointing, especially since I had been looking forward to finding a cozy spot to work and study late into the night.

I had high hopes for this place, but unfortunately, it didn’t live up to the expectations. I’m sad to say that I won’t be returning...