Ghost Coffee Roaster — Restaurant in West Lafayette

I was excited to see a new coffee shop open in Lafayette — especially one claiming to be a professional specialty coffee roaster. During their second week, I noticed a few reviews mentioning poor quality, but I wanted to try it myself before forming an opinion.

I ordered a cappuccino. It was scalding hot — enough to burn my tongue — and the texture was nowhere near velvety. The espresso tasted burnt, not rich or balanced. Based on the flavor and texture, it seemed like they were using a very low-grade machine.

When I politely mentioned the taste, the owner said it was “smokiness” and offered to remake it. The second attempt was slightly better, but still far from drinkable. Not wanting to make a scene in front of other customers, I reached out to the owner via Facebook Messenger — their only listed contact method — and we scheduled a time to meet and talk.

I drove from Indianapolis for that meeting. When I arrived, I was told the owner wasn’t there. The staff asked me to wait while they tried to reach him. I sat there for an hour. No updates. No apology. Not even a glass of water.

When I followed up again via text, the owner casually said he was busy at the roastery — without informing his staff or bothering to let me know. That, to me, says a lot.

Between the overpriced, poorly made coffee and the complete lack of professionalism, this place was a major...

Astronomical prices, perhaps fine for the bean quality but then shooting short with the flavors? That makes no sense. Why match connoisseur levels of java to McDonald's sucralose? This is a sweet treat for campus, finally another enjoyable space with insane parking options. Menu is creative and offering a couple originals like espresso and coke. But a Purdue tuition for a basic large latte, add a tip and it feels like ten bucks feels about like paying for a Microsoft Word degree. The three drinks I've tried are fine for two thirds the cost, at these prices goes against the grain in a Grayhouse vibe. I'm really hopeful to see this place figure out where it fits into the Sacred Grounds, Eleventh House, Wanderlust, and other first...

Wonderful place to stop by and try something new! ᴗ