Perked Up Coffee Cafe'

Brandi Bovell a month ago

⭐☆☆☆☆ Unfortunately, this was one of the most unwelcoming coffee shop experiences I've had. When I entered with my 4-year-old son, there was no line, so I briefly lifted him up to look at the pastry case and choose a treat. After he selected a cinnamon bun, I ordered it heated. A moment later, I added two more cinnamon buns for my husband and daughter. The cashier visibly rolled her eyes at what was literally a two-second delay in completing my order. I then ordered a coffee, a dark chocolate latte with almond milk, a cookie, and a gluten-free biscotti. My total was around $21, and I added a $5 tip. While my card was still processing, another customer walked in. The cashier repeatedly told me, "You're all set," even though the card reader had not finished processing my payment. The interaction felt rushed, as though I was being pushed aside for the next customer despite there being no line. While waiting for my order, the barista called out a "decaf latte with almond milk." Since I had ordered a dark chocolate latte with almond milk, I let her know it wasn't mine. The barista immediately appeared irritated and looked ready to dump the drink. The cashier then clarified that the ticket said "dark chocolate," not "decaf," and it became apparent that the handwritten order had been misread. The replacement drink was made while the barista loudly slammed equipment and banged metal tools around, making it very clear she was unhappy about having to remake it. The entire experience felt hostile and uncomfortable. To make matters worse, none of the employees were wearing gloves while handling food items, which raised concerns about cleanliness and food safety. Based on my experience, the customer service was poor, the atmosphere was unwelcoming, and the food handling practices were concerning. I wish I had read the reviews beforehand, as several other customers appear to have reported similar issues. There are plenty of coffee shops in the Virginia Beach area that value customer service. I'd recommend spending your money elsewhere.

Emma C 11 months ago

An iced coffee is about $4, and you get the coffee yourself which is pretty nice to pick what you want and do it how you like. But if you want a latte it's like $6-7 which is pretty crazy. It's a little overpriced but it's not too bad. I got a caramel iced coffee, not too caramely but the coffee was pretty good, the other drink was a caramel iced latte which did taste better. I also got a breakfast sandwich, it was three hours after opening and they only had two options for bread at the time which sucked so I got a sesame seed bagel, with bacon, Swiss (also only two cheese options), obviously with egg. It was a little burnt but it was still pretty good. The cheese was actually melted so that was nice. They also didn't really have many pastry options left. They should probably start having extra stuff for restocking. Service was pretty good, they could probably use more staff we did have to wait a while for our stuff. It is pretty nicely decorated inside as well.

Shannon McLauchlan 3 weeks ago

I had an iced caramel+vanilla latte breve and it was delicious. Not overly sweet. Perfect for me! Not much room inside,but there are 3 outside tables for relaxing. Note, there are no bathrooms.

Anell M 2 years ago

We stopped in on our way to work, So important to shop support and love local !!! The plants and scenery outside is very cute. Little shops out front . I got the white chocolate mocha iced latte , the flavor of the espresso/coffee . They have a great bakery with many different scones. Coffee cakes , and much more , I also got some quiche “Greek” it was very flavorful and fresh. Would love to try some other things. We will be back

Mary-Ann a year ago

If it’s about the ambiance Perked Up is definitely cute, inviting, cozy - 5 stars. If it’s about service, the ladies were very friendly, welcoming, helpful - I LOVE the suggestion of trying white chocolate lavender latte! Service is 5 stars. I also got their chocolate strawberry muffin - you can taste the fresh strawberries. With what I had am definitely coming back to try their sandwiches, etc. Perked Up! Is truly hidden gem. Highly recommended !