If Royal Oak is well known for anything, it’s the large number of Café’s setting up shop right downtown. I’m going to see which is the best, and how they all stand on their own. I spent an entire Tuesday evening going to each cafe and comparing them based on experience, quality, and flavor. I’ve spent about my current savings three times over on Coffee from Cafes, so let’s figure out how they compare to each other and which cafe you should visit!
Up first, The Fern. Located on 4th street, this little cafe cove has got a cozy charm that I love. The owner recommended a Pistachio latte for coffee lovers, which I would rate an 8 out of 10. A great small business for a chill atmosphere, and the latte was incredibly foamy and creamy. The flavor seemed a little overpowered by the sugar and cream but regardless, a great experience all around.
Next, a locally famous franchise, Dessert Oasis. The barista, Dalia, said an iced dirty chai latte was a great representation of their coffee. It was very sugary and kind of just felt more like a Starbucks latte than anything else. I think the vibes of the actual cafe were very rustic, comforting, and more akin to a small bar than a cafe. I really felt at home sitting down and drinking coffee. I would rate Dessert Oasis a solid 7 out of 10.
Lesser well-known, The Office Coffee Shop, located on Lafayette Ave. As soon as I walked in I was greeted, and I spent a considerable time talking to the workers. Incredibly wonderful experience, sitting down and enjoying my coffee was very relaxing. When I asked what a good coffee would be as a representation, there was some back and forth on what I should order before we decided on a special menu item. The “Extra Wet” Lavender cappuccino, As soon as I tasted it, I realized I had found a new favorite cafe. 10 out of 10, I cannot recommend this place enough
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The new kid on the block, Seven Sundays Coffee. My first time trying Seven Sundays, the workers had this aura of positivity I enjoyed. I ended up just talking to the Barista for close to an hour, and I felt very welcome. They had a unique brutalist interior design that really captured the vibes of a bohemian coffee shop, really making an impression on the already competitive coffee scene in Royal Oak. I tried the “Seven Sundays Latte” which I still don’t exactly know what it is, but I do know it’s really good. It tastes like a dark and rich buttery taste that feels “homemade”. Rating Seven Sundays Coffee a 9 out of 10, I highly recommend you check it out.
And up last, sporting a giant mug outside, Atomic Coffee. They were not very keen on the idea of a review however they suggested I order a Honey Cinnamon Latte. The coffee itself was fine but was difficult to enjoy in the chaotic environment. I also had a cheddar scone that imploded every time I took a bite, leaving crumbs everywhere. However, I did enjoy the wall of windows that made up the front of the cafe allowing for a nice view of Main Street and 4th. Overall I would rate my experience at Atomic Coffee a 5 out of 10.
Comparing these coffee shops at the end of the day is really up to you. There’s a special place in my heart for places like these, and even though I don’t consider myself a coffee expert, some of my favorite memories take place in cafes. There isn’t one perfect café, they all have unique qualities you might not find elsewhere, but I recommend going out and finding your favorite.
Interview with Teresa Mullen, owner of The Fern
What are some of your favorite drinks?
“I love our fern mimosa, it’s a fun drink”
Can you describe your experience working in the coffee industry?
It’s always been about community and striving for that quality experience we need to provide for the customers. I always try to be fun for people, and get them to try new things.
What customer service skills do you think are crucial for a barista?
Patience, and hospitality are key. My family being middle eastern I’ve always been told to be a hospitable person.
What’s the craziest story you have from working here (at the cafe)?
When I was first opening it took so long to get everything ready I thought it was a sign from god or the universe that maybe I shouldn’t do this, or I should quit. When a friend introduced me to John Witz who runs taco fest and arts beats and eats, I had to elevator pitch to him basically to be let into taco fest. He gave me a shot and basically told me to go through with this and I am still so grateful for it. After that first day of taco fest I had never seen that much money in my bank account nor would I have ever thought I would.
Can you share some secrets to making coffee taste better?
Quality ingredients, and I wouldn’t ever make you a drink I wouldn’t make myself. I want people to come in here and feel like they’re getting what they paid for. That’s why I prefer to keep things affordable and intimate, I have regulars who I know exactly what they like without them ever having to ask. It’s all about experience and how we treat each other.
Can you walk me through the process of a day in the life at (cafe)?
I am not a morning person, so typically I’ll show up 5 minutes before we open which is 10(a.m.) then I typically won’t go to sleep till 11pm. The entire day I’m working either physically at the café or managing things and making sure everything is in running order. Also some human things like buying groceries or cooking food.
