Monarch Espresso — Restaurant in Tuscaloosa

So, I'm traveling from Baton Rouge back to Louisville , KY and I did a quick search for a local coffee shop here in Tuscaloosa, bc I don't like chain coffee shops. Found Monarch, called the number it was around 9:40am. Immediately I received a text from Audrey letting me know they will open @ 10am. I thought that's impressive, different level of service. So I took that opportunity to reply with my question regarding their Matcha. Which she answered right back. I knew then I found where I was going. Once there I asked if Audrey was there, Grant, awesome dude, informed me no, she's the owner. Even more blown away that the owner would take the time to answer a question from a random, potential, customer. My drink was amazing, the service was top notch and the atmosphere was great. I have a business in Louisville, KY and appreciate this top shelf level of service and product. Keep doing what you do, you guys are...

Finally, a much needed third-wave/specialty coffee shop in Tuscaloosa!

I ordered a pour-over, which came out to $4.09 after tax. Monarch looks to exclusively brew coffee from Lyons Coffee Roasters located in Florence, AL. They brewed me what I believe was the Ethiopian Hambela, which is a natural processed coffee that is grown at higher altitudes, which should be somewhat fruit-forward.

Monarch's brewing process is right on the money. They brew in a chemex, and take care to use Fellow Stagg kettles for their water. My coffee was fruit forward, leaning more towards blueberry and currant. Overall, I think the only thing that could be improved is the roast itself. For what I would expect, the coffee could've been more tart and juicy. I'll be...

I had an interesting first experience with Monarch Espresso. Overall, the coffee is really good quality but the experience was kind of 3 stars. Firstly, our cappuccinos and toast came out quickly and everything tasted very well. No complaints there..

Secondly, a piece of plastic (which is pictured) was in my cold brew. Luckily I saw it and fetched it out. Maybe warn guests about that? Could be dangerous.

Lastly, the barista who took my order was very pretentious and I've worked in coffee for 7 years. It's just coffee at the end of the day- no mansplaining necessary, my dude!

It wasn't my favorite coffee stop but it wasn't the worst! Honestly, the beverages and food were really good 👌 ☕ give it a try, just beware of the plastic tabs and...