While I love 85°C in general, this location leaves something to be desired. Some of the issues with this location have to do with problems outside of their control, while other problems are completely preventable.
As for the issues outside of the chain's control: the location is in a *very* awkward space that isn't conducive towards their business model. The space is wider at one end than the other with a significant choke point at the register with the exit at the other end.
They've done the only thing that makes sense for the space: put the products over at the wider end and direct the flow of foot traffic along the walls to the register. This means that the moment you set foot in the store, you're already in line. Or, at least, that's what's best for the flow of traffic. Taking time to shop around *can* be done, but it's awkward to do because it forces you to compete for a spot in line with people who are first entering the store. So, it's really just better if you shop at the pace of the line. If you order a drink, the staff may ask you to wait outside the exit because realistically, there isn't any space to wait for your drink near the counter. All these factors make the atmosphere feel more rushed and not as relaxed, but it seems like they're doing the best they can with what little space they have.
The product selection isn't as wide as other locations. I imagine that their bakery space is smaller and that they don't have much room for back stock. The end result is double-/triple-faced bestsellers rather than a variety of unique selections. This just comes with the territory of a smaller space. While I view it as a "con," for this particular location, I know there isn't anything that can actually be done about it.
Now, as for the factors that can be controlled: packaging, cleanliness, and service are all issues at this location. Since COVID, 85°C has transitioned its model from the Taiwanese bakery style of grabbing tongs and a tray and loading up your selections to be boxed at checkout to a prepackaged goods style. This is all well and good, but more often than not, the goods are already smashed/damaged inside the individual packaging. Last time I went, I was hard-pressed to find any round, un-smashed Berrytales. Once you make it to the counter for checkout, the surfaces are usually covered in crumbs and dirty trays. The front-facing staff is also either apathetic at best or downright short at worst; none are very communicative and it's easy to leave feeling a bit confused about whether the transaction is over or if you will be able to notice any drinks on the counter that you might have ordered.
Overall, I'd say that if I really have a craving for 85°C and have no plans to travel south down Genesee to the Clairemont location, I'll still hit this location up for some pastries... but I won't pretend that this isn't by far the weakest 85°C location I've encountered. read more