elements that elevate the coffee shop experience

inspired by Morgan Eckroth

I saw this post by Morgan Eckroth the other day, and I wanted to create a similar post inspired by the concept.

She talks about cafe secrets, which are small, often unnoticed things or actions that contribute to a whole that’s greater than the sum of its parts. She shares a few of her favorite secrets, and it caused me to slow down and reflect on some of the observations I’ve made in my various coffee shop experiences.

Here are a few of my own that I acknowledge and appreciate.

The latte art.

The best latte art I can do at home is polar bear blinking in a snow storm. So I will always appreciate latte art, across the spectrum and skill levels. Whether it's a perfect heart or a wonky rosetta, it makes the drink all the more appealing to consume.

Drinks being delivered to my table.

It’s something I never, ever expect, but always appreciate.

A variety of seating - from comfy enough to chat in for hours to work-mode.

I love sinking into a cafe couch with my drink and a good book, or friend to chat with.

Accessibility for all disabilities!

I love when I see that people in wheelchairs are able to access a cafe and sit comfortably within the space. Or when there are simple graphics, Braille, etc. My SLP brain loves when communication aids are seen out in the wild!

Plenty of outlets.

I don't mind sharing an outlet with someone, but it's nice when I don't have to! Or when I don't have to hunt around the cafe, letting the outlet decide where I sit.

Cute mugs and cups.

I think it actually makes the drink taste better??

Just the right amount of busy.

I don’t think most people enjoy sitting in a cafe when it’s just themselves. For me, I feel like I’m not allowed to make a lot of noise or draw attention to myself. But I also personally don’t enjoy when it’s so busy I have to turn around and leave because there’s no space for me to set up (which is usually remedied by arriving early in the morning, but alas, that’s not always feasible).

So I enjoy a Goldilocks-esque cafe: just the right amount of busy.

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What are the details you notice in coffee shops that have you coming back, again and again?

Until next time,