Dark Stone Coffee — Restaurant in Springfield

I heard of this place when I Googled "coffee near me" while I was in the Springfield area. Since I got rid of my car some time ago, I walked to the locale, unaware it was basically a tiny shack that only does drive through. But in spite of that, I waited in a small line of cars while I myself was the only one on foot. They're able to serve on both sides of the Shack, which is nice. Now, being a coffee aficionado myself, I know a thing or two about coffee, from steaming the milk properly, to proper grind size, proper extraction of espresso, etc... I also roast my own coffee when I'm home. The smells were what I'd expect from a coffee joint, delicious roast notes that fill the air with delight and remind me that waking up at 7am is indeed worth it if I can get my hands on some espresso. I went rather plain Jane and ordered two regular lattes, one hot and one iced. The hot latte was definitely the star. The steamed milk gave the subtle sweetness typical of a latte, while the espresso was smooth and had cocoa and nutty undertones. The espresso should not be sour, nor overly acidic, and I'm pleased to say that it was not, so I'd definitely vouch for the quality of the espresso and espresso based drinks this place offers. The cold latte gets the job done, but cold espresso drinks inherently are more muted in their flavor profile, and as such, I ordered it only because I like something to sip on throughout the day. It was nothing spectacular, but that's not on them. It's just how espresso works when it's cold. In any case, they're much better than Dunkin and also better than Starbucks, so if in the area, give em a visit. If you're a true lover of coffee. You...

Today, for the first time, I was one of those people who pull up to the drive-thru because the lights of an establishment are on. I crept up to the window and shyly asked when they open, hoping it's at that moment because this particular Saturday was cold and snowy, I ran out of creamer at home (or anything comparable to it, and I can't do plain black coffee because I'm not that hardcore, I'm like an adorable plush penguin with a caffeine addiction), and I had ten minutes to get to work and clocked in. When barista responded eight but that she could make me something then if I'd like, I almost cried happy tears and asked her to be my best friend, I think she developed a halo and wings in that moment. Gleefully, I ordered my favored sugar and spice latte (it's the perfect mix of cinnamon, sugar, and throat warmth from what ever kind of chile is in it). I vowed to write a glowing review after work because I felt like the world's worst human being for not having cash for a tip, especially when this lovely soul made my day, and also because the flavors at Dark Stone developed and unique, therefore it is quickly becoming my preference for when I need a quality coffee and either don't have the time to make one myself (or am having a treat yo'...

This drive through coffee shop never disappoints. I've been here three times so far and every time they have gone above and beyond with their customer service. One time the barista remade my drink because he wanted to make sure it was perfect. I have tried the tea and coffee and they were both good. You will probably need to ask for a menu when you pull up unless you are familiar with their menu already as I didn't see one posted anywhere. Another bonus is that all of their syrups are vegan (even the white mocha!) They even went so far as to read the ingredients to me. Like I said they are incredibly kind and very customer service oriented. Give them a try instead of visiting the large chain coffee...