This past Sunday I went to Vivace downtown to pick up a bag of beans. I needed them ground as I was traveling and did not want to bring my grinder with me. I was told by the Barista there that they DO NOT grind coffee for customers. In amazement I asked why not? She replied, "It is not as fresh and this was the company policy." I could not help but laugh as I noticed a line up of flavored syrups just behind her. So adding artificial flavors is improving the flavor in the cup?! Of course I know that it is best to grind fresh beans in a grinder, but sometimes we just need it ground for us. What awful Customer Service this is. This is not the Barista's fault, however, she was following company policy.
I then met a friend for lunch near the Amazon building and noticed a Zoka coffee bar there. I immediately decided to see how they would handle the situation. I asked Kelsey K., the Barista at the POS, if she could grind me a bag of beans. She said no problem and proceeded to grind it for my French Press in the Mahlkonig grinder behind her. I then told her my story about Zoka and she was in as much shock as I was. Her first response was to tell me that their grinders are much better than a typical blade grinder that we use at home. My response was EXACTLY! Now, I have to say Kelsey knows her stuff big time and she gave me Exceptional Customer Service. We both had a long conversation about it and still can't figure out why a policy like this exists. It truly is a shame because I like Vivace coffee very much.
Anyone have a similar experience in other coffee bars? I'd love a conversation about this. Dawn
Comments