Before I explain, here is a list of what I view as underrated local Reno coffee shops that you should absolutely visit if you haven’t yet:
Old World Coffee, Coffee N’ Comics, Hand Craft Cafe Coffee Company, Stella Coffee Company, Cafe Con Papi and Hub Coffee Roasters.
Caffeine tends to be an essential part of many daily routines. Even though coffee can be easily made at home, for much cheaper, why do we still buy cups of coffee from coffee shops? Here’s a five part listicle I came up with.
1. ATMOSPHERE
The design of a coffee shop from the outside to the inside influences its overall vibe. The smell of freshly roasted beans, the sound of the pleasing music and the look of clean and well laid out tables provide important atmosphere cues for customers.
For some, the welcoming ambiance, even if the coffee tastes OK, is a good enough reason for them to stay and come back regularly.
And for students, a well-designed shop can be an ideal place to study and be productive, whether that is alone or with a group. Seeing others engaged in focused activities can create a sense of accountability and inspire them to do the same.
2. CUSTOMER SERVICE
We love interacting with other people, especially when they are attentive, friendly and personable. Going to a coffee shop instead of making coffee at home allows for a welcoming and personalized experience with the local baristas. Nothing sounds better than starting the day greeted with a smile and engaging in a friendly conversation.
And if a customer is already a regular, sometimes shops will remember names and orders which create a sense of familiarity, and a sense of belonging we all desire.
3. QUALITY COFFEE AND FOOD
A coffee shop wouldn’t be a coffee shop without coffee. Most shops have a variety of coffee types to choose from while one’s home may solely have instant coffee and whole milk. To be honest, coffee at home just doesn’t taste the same as coffee from a cafe.
The differences in the quality of beans, the brewing method, the water quality, and the freshness of the grind are only some of the influencing factors. Their fancy coffee machine with its hundreds of buttons will also probably produce a way better tasting cup.
On top of that, some cafes offer food on their menu. What is better than drinking your iced caramel macchiato or dirty chai with a croissant on the side? For people who are on the go, it can be more convenient to stop by a coffee shop that will provide an energy boost and satisfy hunger simultaneously.
4. CONVENIENCE
Most customers juggle an active lifestyle of work, school, family, and other social activities. Having a coffee shop down the street will make it more likely for people to buy rather than make. Especially when the service is speedy without sacrificing quality.
Convenience can also entail takeaway options like drive-thrus and amenities like plenty of seating and high-speed wifi. It is also helpful when cafes have a mobile pick-up option so customers can come in and out within seconds. Its atmosphere, location and services make coffee shops an ideal place to work and be productive.
For some, this matter of convenience makes a $7 latte + tip worth it.
5. COMMUNITY
Good coffee shops involve their community. They promote local businesses and artists, host local events and actively involve themselves with relevant activities. The gatherings they hold can be the perfect place to meet new people with similar interests. Or simply a place to meet a friend and gossip for hours on end.
When people visit coffee shops, they are supporting a local business which might be sourcing locally as well. This creates a feeling of shared investment in the community.
With this being said, why do you buy overpriced coffee even when you have already told yourself you are saving money this week?