Empresso Coffee — Restaurant in Stockton

2023 update below: I used to love empresso on the mile, they completely changed in quality and service. Today (june 2 2021) i went in to get coffee because I was under the impression that the staff were wearing masks, half of the crew there were not. The two unmasked girls in front stared at me and my husband and laughed. We immediately left, It really is not hard to wear a mask when taco truck people are over a hot grill all day wearing one...I dont care if you are full vaccinated, I want my food/drink handled by someone who cares about not only my health but theirs. Not only that, but someone who cares about their COMMUNITY. I don't understand how this simple task has not been expressed by everyone. I love supporting small businesses but I will not support one that does not care for human safety or their community. This is Very sad and disappointing.

Update: still 1 star, 10/29/23- Haven't been to this location in a while so i thought to give it another chance, BIG MISTAKE. Line was out the door which was okay. the issue here was they had three people doing a one person task. one person was getting the espresso shots, one person steaming milk, one person capping the drinks...it took three times long just to get a single beverage out because they also were in their own world just chit chatting amongst each other taking their time with no time management or care in the world. on top of that when i finally was able to get my large hot mocha they did not have any lids that fit and they guy working just shrugged. i dont understand how much this place keeps going further down hill. i wont be...

I’ve been a customer at Empresso Coffeehouse for a while and had previously enjoyed stopping by for my usual coffee. Unfortunately, my recent experience has left me feeling disappointed and disrespected enough to take my business elsewhere.

During my last visit, I was overcharged for my drink. When I calmly asked for clarification, the employee who took my order — a young woman with brown curly hair — responded in a rude and aggressive manner. I was respectful in my approach, simply seeking to understand the pricing, but she quickly became snappy and defensive, accusing me of speaking to her inappropriately. This reaction was completely uncalled for and left me taken aback.

What made matters worse was returning a few days later, only to witness this same employee talking to another worker about the previous incident. They were clearly discussing me, turning to look at me and making it obvious. That kind of behavior is not only unprofessional, it’s juvenile and uncomfortable for any customer to witness.

I expect a certain level of basic courtesy and professionalism, and unfortunately, this location has failed to provide that. I’ve since found another local coffee spot that not only serves great drinks but also treats customers with genuine respect. I won’t be returning to Empresso Coffeehouse, and I hope management addresses these concerns for the sake of future customers.

— A formerly...

I prefer supporting a local business over a multi-national conglomerate, and I want to like this coffee shop, but each time I visit, I’m disappointed. The staff looks so depressed and annoyed to be there. There is so much potential to be labeled as “cozy” or “homey,” but instead, it comes off as “cold.” This is a small store, and when entering, you are about 10 feet from the barista and cashier. Common courtesy would be to say “Welcome” or “Good Morning” when looking up. Instead, employees look at you, make eye contact, and ignore you. It’s an awkward five-minute wait for someone to come up to the register and take your order; when they do, it's a robotic “what can I get you?” and a radiating vibe that you are inconveniencing them. Don’t expect a smile or “thank you” at any point.

I order a simple hot Mocha; it's overpriced and nothing to brag about. Don’t worry about burning yourself or needing the drink to cool down; mine has always been served lukewarm. A few of their sandwiches sound interesting, but I have not ventured there since this “coffee house” has not impressed me with their coffee drinks. The pastries in their display cabinet look very similar to Costco’s pastries.

I HATE saying this, but I suggest you postpone giving any tips until after receiving your food so you can base it on the service/quality/speed...