Not the Atmosphere for Me
I really wanted to like Dutch Bros, and I gave this location several chances on different occasions before deciding it simply isn't for me. One positive is that I do feel you get a generous amount of coffee for the price, especially compared with some other coffee chains.
Unfortunately, my biggest issue is the overall atmosphere and level of professionalism. I come to a coffee shop for coffee and friendly service--not to hear employees' personal political opinions, social views, relationships, sexuality, or other parts of their private lives repeatedly brought into customer interactions. Regardless of someone's beliefs, orientation, politics, or lifestyle, I think employees should keep highly personal or potentially divisive subjects out of the workplace unless a customer specifically engages in that conversation.
The communication style also became irritating. One employee repeatedly responded with "I gotchu" to nearly everything I said. After hearing it over and over, I finally joked that if she "got me," maybe she was paying for my coffee. Casual service can be fun, but there is a point where it starts feeling forced rather than genuinely friendly.
On another visit, an employee attempted to speak Spanish to me in a way that came across as awkward and presumptuous rather than helpful. I understand she may have had good intentions, but employees should avoid making assumptions about customers or what language they prefer.
I'm sure this atmosphere appeals to some people, but it wasn't welcoming or comfortable for me. My constructive suggestion would be to focus more on professional, courteous customer service and great coffee while leaving employees' personal beliefs, politics, relationships, and private lives outside of customer interactions.
The coffee and value have potential, but after several visits, I've decided I won't be returning. read more