Hot Mama's Espresso — Restaurant in Walla Walla

Hot Mamas has the best granitas in town.* Their straight espresso granita, no frills or whip or flavors added -- it's the reason I head out to this corner of town for a drink. Sublime as-is. I get my hot and iced espresso drinks elsewhere, so I can't vouch for the quality of their lattes / mochas / etc. But for a granita, it's worth going out of my way. (Their sugar-free vanilla chai yoguccino is a healthier-sounding alternative that's a fun detour, too.)

As of May 2019, they change their granita mix out on Tuesdays. Typically, you get your best flavor and texture from fresh granitas. But even last Monday when I made the trip (the day before they were due to change out the mix), I was very impressed.

Occasionally, I have been slightly put off by political messages at Hot Mamas, which deterred me from making the trek out to their location.

*Coffee Cravings is a close-second on the straight granita flavor. With two more convenient locations in Walla Walla, I go through their drive-thru more often than Hot Mamas.

But Hot Mamas' granita is worth it for a...

I really want to like this place but I struggle with the frequent buyer loyalty club card. This is the 3rd time this has happened to me. I had accumulated enough for a free drink. I always order the same item, medium size Ice Tea but with the frequent buyer card you are only entitled to a small drink regardless of the cost. I was heading to the boat for the day and wanted a medium size to last me for a significant amount of time. I knew that I was only qualifying for the small so I offered to pay the difference to have it upsized. The you g lady at the window was completely baffled and said that it isn't allowed. The problem I have with the whole small size requirement is that it puts everyone in an awkward position, including the help staff. I do know that the other drive thru coffee shops don't bother with requiring the smallest possible size. I want to point out that it just makes the whole customer experience awkward and I can't imagine the cost is...

Saturday afternoon 12:30 pm. Zero customers and two employees. I had to wait till there was a break in the conversation to order. I went to use the restroom and when I returned my drink was complete with 2 straws and a hot tamale candy? As I grabbed my drink I had to make an effort to get eye contact from either employee. They were in a deep conversation. Got in my car and left then tasted the drink. I ordered a 12 ounce mocka. I got 12 ounces of pee water. Bitter and nasty burnt coffee taste. Couldn't even get a hint of chocolate. $3.85 😮😳. I hate horrible customer service. If this my business I'd be livid to find out that's what people were getting at there slowest time? What do I have to be a fireman to get a descent mocha or go...