Cala Coffee
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My daughter and I were in the area and wanted coffee so we tried the new location. Good vibes, good coffee, but unfortunately they were out of pastries. Nevertheless, we sat at one of the high tables and enjoyed our coffees. I noticed that they had one of the machines that dispense little art prints (Inciardi ?) but signs said they were out of stock. Too bad because they're very popular in New England and I had a great time searching for these machines and seeing what prints I'd get. I've started a collection. I'll come again for coffee, and hopefully will get pastries, and art prints.
Drinks first, thoughts after... This is a fun place to study at if you can ever get a seat! I recommend coming early to get a parking spot and to get a seat. The drinks are good along with the food! A pretty solid study spot.
Such a fresh and fun vibe inside. Loved the bright and friendly aesthetic. Branding was on point. Loved the variety of merch. Ordered a cereal milk matcha latte which included fruity pebbles-- seasonal drink and so fun and delicious!! Husband ordered a drip coffee and was happy. Baristas were kind though things behind the counter seemed to move slowly considering the long line of folks waiting to put their orders through. Check out the little print studio at the back! So cool. There's a little "gumball machine" by the pick up bar that has little limited edition prints for $1. Make sure to bring four quarters! And, if you're like me and don't have change, the barista setting the drinks on the counter was kind enough to break a dollar even despite how busy they were. Hope to visit again!
I can't tell you how often I get on an airplane and it is every other passengers first time flying the friendly skies. In the same vein, how do you stand in line for ten minutes and not know what you want? Sorry to be snarky. People are here because it's a very good cup of coffee. Back to the snark, none of them would know after all the cream, sweetener, and flavors are added. Honestly, if you order a cup of black coffee you ought to get extra frequent flyer/drinker points. Enough of the horribly mixed metaphor this has descended into. The staff are personable and hard working. Space is light and clean. The merch looks pretty sharp.
Cala Coffee was such a great first visit! I stopped by to try their matcha and wasn't sure what to order, but the barista recommended her personal favorite: an iced half strawberry/half vanilla matcha with oat milk (my usual substitute) and extra sweet. It ended up being perfect--sweet but not overly sweet, and really flavorful. I also signed up for their rewards program and got $5 off my first order, which was a nice bonus. I originally wanted to sit outside since the weather was so nice, but ended up sitting inside. Next time I'll try to get there earlier to grab an outdoor spot. Parking is pretty tight--the front lot is small--but I was lucky to find a spot, and I noticed some people parked on the surrounding streets. Overall, it was a really good experience and I'm excited to go back!
Stumbled upon Cala Coffee and it was a pleasant surprise. They were packed which was a good sign. Waiting in line gave an opportunity to check out the decor (minimalist/boho vibe), merch, menu and case of delectable-looking pastries. My companion ordered an almond croissant and regular cup of coffee and I ordered a latte and chocolate croissant. We were rather surprised when my friend was told that they had run out of coffee, they were leaving room for cream in the cup but it was a little lower than normal so she was asked if she wanted to wait for more or a new cup. My friend said she was fine with the amount she had gotten, and really it wasn't a big deal but we both thought it surprising that a coffee shop would run out of coffee. Our pastries were fresh and yummy and the coffee was very good. The atmosphere was fun and festive. There is also a nice outdoor patio seating area (with a Little Free Library) but it had stormed the night before so that seating was all wet. All in all, tasty and enjoyable.
This is definitely a full service coffee shop that's got all the good stuff for you coffee lovers out there. The drinks are outstanding and do not disappoint. In addition to that they serve baked goods from Bandit Patisserie which is a definite plus. Don't skip those. The space itself is huge. Tons of seating including a large outdoor patio for when the weather is nice. They've also got a cooler with some other beverages including a few beer options, so you've got a spot where you could sit on the patio in the sunshine and enjoy a brew if that's your thing. Good coffee shops have to start with great coffee and they've nailed that part. The rest of the space is just icing on the cake. Polished but not pretentious, quality goods, and excellent coffee. What else do you need?
Super cute location. The lavender latte was delicious! I was really surprised how many people were either on AM coffee dates or set up with their laptops. I'm planning to bring my laptop and do some work as well!
I came here on a Saturday morning to visit the Local Love Market pop-up. It was very busy inside and the line was already several people long. Despite the business, the line moved very quickly and we had our order placed and made in just a few minutes! I ordered a latte with brown sugar and sugar-free vanilla syrup. They only had one sugar-free syrup option, but I wished that they carried more flavors. I loved my drink, it was a perfect mid-morning pick-me-up. They also have seasonal menus that offer several unique drinks. Bonus: the inside is SO CUTE.
I may have just found my new go-to coffee spot! Cala in Vestavia had everything I look for in a coffee shop: great coffee, good prices, and a very relaxed vibe perfect for getting my writing done or meeting with a friend. They offer a wide variety of drinks beyond coffee- teas, lemonade, and even have a shelf of local beers and wines! My standard is a caramel latte, which Cala did better than any local chain. My wife ordered a "fruit basket" lemonade, one of their seasonal summer drinks. We even indulged in the breakfast tacos, which are outsourced from Ladybird Tacos and make a filling morning snack. Overall, Cala is sure to be my go-to stop for coffee and relaxation.
Great coffee house for sure. The vibe in here is so relaxing and enjoyable too. The servers were all nice and working constantly the whole time I was in there doing work on my laptop. It's a nice place for sure.
The vibe is amazing. And my almond croissant which actually comes from bandit patisserie was one of the best I've had in a while. However, my coffee fell flat. It tasted like the beans were burnt. And it was so crowded that I didn't feel like getting them to redo my drink. So I just wasted a whole coffee. I would go back and give it another shot.
Had Cala Coffee on my list of coffee shops to try in the area, and finally got to try today. Great experience and great coffee! Interior was so cute -- love the cozy interior, warm lighting, and decor they have. Creates a very inviting space, also quite spacious inside. They have a small parking lot that was packed! Ordered a honey cinnamon latte and it was amazing. It was incredibly smooth, espresso:milk ratio was perfect, exact amount of subtle sweetness I requested, and the espresso taste was bold with no bitterness and wasn't overpowering at all. Employee who took my order was very friendly and welcoming. I was quite impressed with my first visit at Cala, and will be back for sure.
Reviews are largely positive. People highlight creative seasonal drinks, friendly staff, and a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Fresh pastries, especially the almond croissant, are also popular.
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Super disappointed. Parking set up is terrible- the small lot was full, had a big truck back all the way out of the lot from a space in front of the door while people are trying to drive into full lot. 20min limit signs. Was 4th in line and it was soooo slow with 4 girls working. None of the specials drinks have prices. Ordered the a drink called Front Porch? The girl forgot to enter the strawberry shortbread cookies I got so she had to start another order for me to tap with my card and then she gave herself a tip! Wow, definitely didn't authorize that. $6.16 Waited 20min for my drink and come to find out, they were calling Hannah for my drink. Yikes. read more
Business owner information
Josh C.
Sorry you had a bad experience! If you email me at…
5 months ago
unpopular opinion alert People rave about this place so my expectations were set pretty high I won't lie. Unfortunately my go to order is an iced latte with skim milk and they don't have skim. I was hoping to get a little treat to go with my coffee but they were all piled on top of each other in the display case which made them look really unappealing. I am not talking croissants on croissants or muffins on muffins, I mean everything on top of each other which also makes me feel like options for people with allergies may be limited. The staff were really kind and the barista suggested 2% or almond milk as alternative options for me which was very kind but just not my favorite. The interior and outdoor seating are very cute. They have mini prints and larger prints for sale. I really think the larger prints would make a great locally made present! Ultimately, I don't think this is my spot due to dietary restrictions but it might be good spot for you. read more
My daughter and I were in the area and wanted coffee so we tried the new location. Good vibes, good coffee, but unfortunately they were out of pastries. Nevertheless, we sat at one of the high tables and enjoyed our coffees. I noticed that they had one of the machines that dispense little art prints (Inciardi ?) but signs said they were out of stock. Too bad because they're very popular in New England and I had a great time searching for these machines and seeing what prints I'd get. I've started a collection. I'll come again for coffee, and hopefully will get pastries, and art prints. read more
Business owner information
Josh C.
Thanks for your review! Hopefully you can come back and we can earn a…
Drinks first, thoughts after... This is a fun place to study at if you can ever get a seat! I recommend coming early to get a parking spot and to get a seat. The drinks are good along with the food! A pretty solid study spot. read more
Such a fresh and fun vibe inside. Loved the bright and friendly aesthetic. Branding was on point. Loved the variety of merch. Ordered a cereal milk matcha latte which included fruity pebbles-- seasonal drink and so fun and delicious!! Husband ordered a drip coffee and was happy. Baristas were kind though things behind the counter seemed to move slowly considering the long line of folks waiting to put their orders through. Check out the little print studio at the back! So cool. There's a little "gumball machine" by the pick up bar that has little limited edition prints for $1. Make sure to bring four quarters! And, if you're like me and don't have change, the barista setting the drinks on the counter was kind enough to break a dollar even despite how busy they were. Hope to visit again! read more
I can't tell you how often I get on an airplane and it is every other passengers first time flying the friendly skies. In the same vein, how do you stand in line for ten minutes and not know what you want? Sorry to be snarky. People are here because it's a very good cup of coffee. Back to the snark, none of them would know after all the cream, sweetener, and flavors are added. Honestly, if you order a cup of black coffee you ought to get extra frequent flyer/drinker points. Enough of the horribly mixed metaphor this has descended into. The staff are personable and hard working. Space is light and clean. The merch looks pretty sharp. read more
8 months ago
Cala Coffee was such a great first visit! I stopped by to try their matcha and wasn't sure what to order, but the barista recommended her personal favorite: an iced half strawberry/half vanilla matcha with oat milk (my usual substitute) and extra sweet. It ended up being perfect--sweet but not overly sweet, and really flavorful. I also signed up for their rewards program and got $5 off my first order, which was a nice bonus. I originally wanted to sit outside since the weather was so nice, but ended up sitting inside. Next time I'll try to get there earlier to grab an outdoor spot. Parking is pretty tight--the front lot is small--but I was lucky to find a spot, and I noticed some people parked on the surrounding streets. Overall, it was a really good experience and I'm excited to go back! read more
Stumbled upon Cala Coffee and it was a pleasant surprise. They were packed which was a good sign. Waiting in line gave an opportunity to check out the decor (minimalist/boho vibe), merch, menu and case of delectable-looking pastries. My companion ordered an almond croissant and regular cup of coffee and I ordered a latte and chocolate croissant. We were rather surprised when my friend was told that they had run out of coffee, they were leaving room for cream in the cup but it was a little lower than normal so she was asked if she wanted to wait for more or a new cup. My friend said she was fine with the amount she had gotten, and really it wasn't a big deal but we both thought it surprising that a coffee shop would run out of coffee. Our pastries were fresh and yummy and the coffee was very good. The atmosphere was fun and festive. There is also a nice outdoor patio seating area (with a Little Free Library) but it had stormed the night before so that seating was all wet. All in all, tasty and enjoyable. read more
Business owner information
Josh C.
Hey Susie! Thanks for the review! Sometimes we run out of our drip…
This is definitely a full service coffee shop that's got all the good stuff for you coffee lovers out there. The drinks are outstanding and do not disappoint. In addition to that they serve baked goods from Bandit Patisserie which is a definite plus. Don't skip those. The space itself is huge. Tons of seating including a large outdoor patio for when the weather is nice. They've also got a cooler with some other beverages including a few beer options, so you've got a spot where you could sit on the patio in the sunshine and enjoy a brew if that's your thing. Good coffee shops have to start with great coffee and they've nailed that part. The rest of the space is just icing on the cake. Polished but not pretentious, quality goods, and excellent coffee. What else do you need? read more
Business owner information
Josh C.
Thanks so much, Scott!
I came here on a Saturday morning to visit the Local Love Market pop-up. It was very busy inside and the line was already several people long. Despite the business, the line moved very quickly and we had our order placed and made in just a few minutes! I ordered a latte with brown sugar and sugar-free vanilla syrup. They only had one sugar-free syrup option, but I wished that they carried more flavors. I loved my drink, it was a perfect mid-morning pick-me-up. They also have seasonal menus that offer several unique drinks. Bonus: the inside is SO CUTE. read more
I may have just found my new go-to coffee spot! Cala in Vestavia had everything I look for in a coffee shop: great coffee, good prices, and a very relaxed vibe perfect for getting my writing done or meeting with a friend. They offer a wide variety of drinks beyond coffee- teas, lemonade, and even have a shelf of local beers and wines! My standard is a caramel latte, which Cala did better than any local chain. My wife ordered a "fruit basket" lemonade, one of their seasonal summer drinks. We even indulged in the breakfast tacos, which are outsourced from Ladybird Tacos and make a filling morning snack. Overall, Cala is sure to be my go-to stop for coffee and relaxation. read more
5 months ago
Great coffee house for sure. The vibe in here is so relaxing and enjoyable too. The servers were all nice and working constantly the whole time I was in there doing work on my laptop. It's a nice place for sure. read more
Business owner information
Josh C.
Thank you!
2 months ago
The vibe is amazing. And my almond croissant which actually comes from bandit patisserie was one of the best I've had in a while. However, my coffee fell flat. It tasted like the beans were burnt. And it was so crowded that I didn't feel like getting them to redo my drink. So I just wasted a whole coffee. I would go back and give it another shot. read more
Business owner information
Josh C.
Hi Tia! I’m sorry the coffee fell flat. Can you let me know what time…
3 months ago
Business owner information
Josh C.
Thanks for your review! Sorry you had a bad experience! Since you had…
Had Cala Coffee on my list of coffee shops to try in the area, and finally got to try today. Great experience and great coffee! Interior was so cute -- love the cozy interior, warm lighting, and decor they have. Creates a very inviting space, also quite spacious inside. They have a small parking lot that was packed! Ordered a honey cinnamon latte and it was amazing. It was incredibly smooth, espresso:milk ratio was perfect, exact amount of subtle sweetness I requested, and the espresso taste was bold with no bitterness and wasn't overpowering at all. Employee who took my order was very friendly and welcoming. I was quite impressed with my first visit at Cala, and will be back for sure. read more
2 years ago
A fantastic and vibrant place to meet with friends and enjoy quality espresso and coffee drinks! We opted to come in the afternoon for cappuccino, latte and something sweet. Due to Cala's popularity, Parking can be a challenge; but they have acquired a gravel lot down the street to accommodate the overflow. read more
Business owner information
Josh C.
Thank you!!
8 months ago
1 year ago
This place is sooooo cute and everything you'd want in a local coffee shop!! The interior is super nice and feels very cozy. The parking lot of kind of small so be wary of coming during peak hours. We got a cold brew and some lattes which were all great. The cold brew was a little thin and sour which isn't how I prefer but was still good. They have a good selection of pastries and breakfast foods. The service was great too! Will be coming back for sure! read more
Business owner information
Josh C.
Thanks, Emily!
2 years ago
I wish I lived here to go to this coffee shop every day. On vacation we made this an every morning routine. The coffee here is fantastic. We liked the diversity of the menu and food options. The seating was very ample and allowed for maybe computer workers or students studying read more
Business owner information
Josh C.
Thank you!!
1 year ago
Cala was wonderful! I could already tell I would be in for a treat when I saw they served bandit pastries and ladybird tacos. I ended up staying here for a while so I got two drinks: a mocha and a shaken strawberry matcha! The mocha was alright, nothing to write home about, but the matcha was EXQUISITE!! Highly recommend if you're a fan of matcha! Overall, the vibes of this coffee shop are exactly what I'm looking for and I will most definitely be returning! read more
Now in their own absolutely beautiful brick and mortar location with plenty of room to study or work, the same Cala you know and love is back! Still the very best beans (the only ones we use at home for espresso and French press), still run by fantastic kind people, with their own homemade syrups. They also now have local pastries from bandit, and a breakfast taco pop up! Run, do not walk! They also have a cooler with a variety of non alcoholic beverages and some healthy snacks. Cannot express enough how much I love cala and will continue to support the fantastic community they are building. read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
1 year ago
Business owner information
Josh C.
Thanks so much! And thanks for supporting us even before our cafes!
Atmosphere: Cala Coffee has both a great working and casual atmosphere with a variety of seating options from little tables to longer high tops. The lighting and decor are fresh and hip! Service: The baristas were really friendly, and our drinks came out quickly! Food: We've tried their Hot Strawberry Latte and Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte. The Strawberry Latte was very sweet and the strawberry flavor wasn't as prominent as we would've liked, but the drink was still warm and delicious! We were huge fans of the Strawberry Matcha Latte, as the drink had the perfect balance between the grassy matcha notes and sweetness from the strawberry. Overall: We love the vibes of Cala Coffee! Their drinks and atmosphere make for a great spot to hang out or get some work done. We're looking forward to becoming regulars at Cala! read more
Business owner information
Josh C.
Thank you!
2 years ago
8 months ago
I'm always looking for new coffee to try in Bham. I'm so glad Yelp had this event or I would not have known about Cala Coffee! I came to their pop up at The Fig Tree. I ordered the lavender latte with oat milk, and it was amazing. The latte had the right amount of lavender with the creaminess of the oat milk. I also got the breakfast bar, which has oatmeal, peanut butter, honey, banana, and chocolate chips. I give it a 4/5 only because I was not expecting the sprinkle of salt on it. The owner was friendly and gave me great recs! I got their medium roast, Brazil, to try at home. They have been operating as a coffee cart and have pop-upss. Soon, they will have their own brick-and-mortar spot in Cahaba Heights. Cala has only been open for a year, but they have a bright future ahead :) read more
2 years ago
it was such a quaint spot in bham! Went to go see Samford and afterwards decided to stop here and absolutely loved it! Gave off a very indie/cali vibe and the coffee was great! totally recommend read more
3 years ago
This tucked away coffee shop is too cute. The inside has a good variety of seating but the chairs didn't look too comfy. It was a beautiful day so most of the outside seating was taken. Outside seating is much more limited. Service was okay but we did receive our drinks quickly. I enjoyed the coffee and would definitely go back again! read more
3 years ago
Cala coffee is top of the list for coffee shops in Birmingham! The honey cinnamon latte is my favorite, but the maple sea salt is a close second. I have an almond allergy and they are so great and careful about using a separate cup/sanitizing for cross contamination. My hubby loves the strawberry poptart from Baking Bandits that they carry as well! Wish they had nonfat milk as an option, but whole or 2% tastes better anyways lets be real read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
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