What makes a good cafe a great cafe

So. What does it take to be considered a great cafe?

It may be obvious that opinions will vary greatly, but we can probably agree on numerous ingredients to a delicious cafe.

First, though, let us take a look at the definition of cafe via dictionary.com.

cafe-

1. a restaurant, often with an enclosed or outdoor section extending onto the sidewalk.
2. a restaurant, usually small and unpretentious.
3. a barroom, cabaret, or nightclub.
4. coffee.

It's All in the Atmosphere

What could be more valuable and telling of a cafe than the atmosphere itself? After all, people will pay for the atmosphere, not just the services available. Things like:

1. Colors can be appealing to the soul or a person's preference. Bright and cheery. Soft and easy-going. Different colors bring different energies to the space.
2. Music is of course a must. Loud enough to hear, quiet enough to blend into the background, and mood-setting tunes easy enough for everyone to enjoy.
3. Art is appreciated by most, so having various art on the walls and personal touches tastefully placed around the room will enhance the customer's experience. (Bonus for allowing local artists to display their artwork! This can help bring the community closer together.)
4. Seating is another important aspect of a great cafe. A good balance of chair or cushion styles, table types, and indoor/outdoor seating options is a necessity. All could be pulled together in a manner conducive to free flowing energy and sense of having 'enough' space to breathe and move without bumping into others accidentally.
5. Menus hold a tremendous potential to adding to the atmosphere. (For some of us, it's simply a bonus and an excuse to go hang out in a great place!) Variety is of course needed to satisfy every palate as well as offering healthy and tasty options that can encourage people to try new things and inspire patrons to find whole and healthy alternatives to their favorite treats. It is possible for an environment to be a positive influence!
6. Retail options have the potential to amplify the vibe. The cafe may offer things like popular ingredients, teas, coffee beans, pots and other brewing supplies as well as sodas and games.
7. Customer Service can change the intention behind the energy of the shop itself. When the staff loves what they do and appreciates the customers, a feeling of comfortable positivity emerges. Whether you're a regular, an occasional visitor, or it's you're first time in the cafe, the staff has the ability to enable feelings of zen-like ease.
8. Extras. Extras..read all about it! The extras can be plentiful so long as they are tasteful and authentic. It's always nice to have certain things that make the cafe unique and wholesome. Muggswigz in Canton, Oh has some of the best extras in my opinion. There is always fresh water, honey and other homemade sweeteners, assorted spices (including fresh-ground nutmeg) and even real spoons! When I go to a cafe, I want heavy mugs (saucers = bonus) and real spoons. I want to feel the weight and warmth against my skin.

Put them all together, stir in a dash of love and voila! A great cafe!

Do you have anything that you think is appropriate for this list? Or do you want to tell me about your favorite cafe?...Feel free to comment or email me at kristielea8951(at)gmail(dot)com