Why do most coffee shops in Alabama have to face a parking lot? Why the heck is everything another ugly strip mall? What makes it even sadder in the case of Santos, is they tried to make the exterior a little more enjoyable by putting some nice tables and even a swing outside. Sadly, without any plants separating the area from the parking lot, the entire vibe of this coffee shop, both looking out from inside and sitting outside is not that great. But, vibe aside, let's talk about how it got here. Santos is a family owned small chain. The main owner, Wendy Madden, opened the first coffee shop in 1993 in Tuscaloosa and since expanded into Santos Coffee we know today. The establishment pays homage to Guatemalan saints and ancestral lands where coffee is sourced from, from family's original plantations. The beans are roasted in Birmingham after being imported from Guatemala. The coffee is absolutely excellent here. Seriously, a very tasty latte. Oddly, they do not have an option to get it in a mug, so there is no way to avoid the plastic coating and the flimsy paper cups. Also there wasn't even a design on top of the latte...but ok, maybe that's slightly picky to highlight. Thus, Santos as a whole is a good coffee shop for to go orders. With excellent coffee quality, this is where they really shine. With that said, the vibe and serving methods need work. read more

Santos Coffee - Hoover - Interior Design - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Hoover, Alabama

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Super clean and the aesthetic I could spend hours here and work. The staff were really nice. They had good options for food and for drinks outside of coffee! Free water, which I love because it's self serve. Only thing I would change is the energy shot. It would amazing if they served an energy shot actually. I was expecting like a mini juice shot packed with vitamins and suppl read more

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Ordered coffee 3 week ago. Lucinao said he would shipped. After we paid.. Talked to him 3 times... we still do not have our coffee. Purchase order Confirmation #1919 read more

Overall, I had a good experience here! Santos was out of cold brew in the mid/late afternoon which was a tad disappointing. The employees were super friendly and patient as I took forever trying to decide what I wanted to order instead. They even pointed me to a menu on the wall listing out the baristas' favorite specialty concoctions. I ended up going with the basil lavender latte since it sounded pretty unique. It was lovely but very milk-centered. It wasn't too basil-y which was a relief. The establishment is rather spacious, complete with tables and even some cushy chairs. Be sure to take in the impressive colorful resplendent quetzal (national bird of Guatemala) + Vulcan mural outside! read more

Greeted when we walk in and they alleyways help me make up my mind. Even on simple days like a caramel latte. I love the lighting and seating too it's such a vibe in there! read more

Santos Coffee - Hoover - Iced Caramel Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Hoover, Alabama

It was fine. As with most coffee shops no unsweet nondairy creamer. People were nice. Very comfortable shop.

As a tea drinker, impressed by a basil lavender herbal iced tea. They also have Fresca, smoothies for the non coffee drinkers. Cool lounge area. Great find near the ball fields. read more

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Wow. When I used to live in that area I didn't really go to coffee shops so I hadn't been there but maybe once. Well today I went to do some laptop work projects and this was a mindblower. The server was about a 5 star. She was super wonderful and even helped me pick a unique drink. Then the one creating the drink was super awesome too and I saw him doing a lot of cleaning and organizing when he had time. This was a wonderful vibe and very comfortable and clean. Absolutely a great place to sit and chill and work and even to sit and hang with friends or coworkers or customers. read more

Santos Coffee - Hoover - Yummy drink - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Hoover, Alabama

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I'm always in this shopping center so Santos is a frequent stop of mine. I usually get a sugar free vanilla latte, hot or iced depending on the mood. It can get pretty busy at any point in the day, I haven't been able to gauge a pattern in crowd levels. They have breakfast and lunch options and a case of homemade pastries/deserts. The inside is always clean and cozy, it's a great place to study. I wish they had more sugar free syrup options but I'm still happy with my usual order. read more

Santos Coffee - Hoover - Pastry display - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Hoover, Alabama

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What an amazing coffee shop! Two days in a row we enjoyed the ambiance and of course the coffee. The Vanilla Coconut Latte was cozy and delicious. The orange loaf is a must- make sure to get it warmed to perfection! If in Hoover, be sure to stop by. You won't be disappointed. read more

Santos Coffee - Hoover - Vanilla Coconut Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Hoover, Alabama

Food and coffee are good but customer service is absolutely horrific. I've been twice and the employees have been rude both times. Especially the ones working drive thru. I went at 5pm and was told their kitchen was closed and I couldn't order food - but they don't close until 6pm. Why is this not posted somewhere? Their menu in drive thru is very limited and does not display half of the options that they offer so I'm glad I'd shopped online first. Many improvements to be made. Which is sad because their coffee is delicious but there's really no shortage of good coffee around that area so I will explore other options until customer service improves. read more

Great customer service everyone there are very nice Employees were very helpful .Clean store

I come here frequently when I want both outside and inside options to have a good cold brew while I do some writing. Today they were out of cold brew much to my dismay and it was only 12:30pm. No matter as I was helped by Dorien who suggested I do a pour over. He even put in an extra shot of expresso after I admitted that the ice made it a little watered down (as I like the strength of the cold brew). It was some of the best customer service I've had in weeks. Plus his personality was wonderful and he was knowledgeable about the coffee processes. With his help I was able to get the feeling of cold brew and almost the taste too! Quite pleased. read more

Santos Coffee - Hoover - Iced coffee with lavender - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Hoover, Alabama

I find myself coming here once a year because of an early morning baseball game at the Met Complex, and every time it is a bad experience and I wonder why I allowed Santos another chance. Honestly, a 15 minute wait for a cup of coffee with cream at 7:15 am when they aren't slammed? And then I get attitude for asking about it?? I'm done with this place. read more

Came here this morning for the first time and went through the drive thru. None of the prices were listed (and actually had white taped over the old prices with no new prices listed anywhere). I got the Nutella latte and a bacon egg and cheese bagel and asked for the bacon very well done. Overall, none of it tastes good. The coffee tastes watery and similar to what you might get at Jack's or McDonalds. The bagel is bland and the bacon in flimsy. If you're knowledgeable in the coffee world, you will be disappointed. If you just enjoy a regular cup of coffee and not looking for anything special, this place will be fine. Only giving 2 stars because the guy who served me in the drive thru was very kind. read more

Santos Coffee in Hoover is renowned for its inviting atmosphere and exceptional beverage offerings. Among their diverse menu, the elderberry tea stands out as my favorite. The café itself is described as "adorable and very welcoming," with a relaxing atmosphere and friendly staff. This ambiance enhances the overall experience, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a warm cup of elderberry tea. Elderberry tea is not only delicious but also offers numerous health benefits. In summary, Santos Coffee provides a delightful setting to enjoy their highly praised elderberry tea, complemented by a welcoming environment and attentive service read more

Santos Coffee - Hoover - Elderberry Tea - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Hoover, Alabama

The coffee is top quality. Really enjoy their decor as it creates a casual atmosphere.

I come here a lot when I need a spot with both indoor and outdoor seating to sip on a good cold brew and get some writing done. But today, to my disappointment, they were already out of cold brew n it was only 12:30pm! Luckily, Dorien was there to help me out. He suggested a pour-over instead, and when I mentioned that the ice made it a little too watered down for my taste (since I like my cold brew strong), he even threw in an extra shot of espresso. Honestly, some of the best customer service I've had in weeks. Not only was he super helpful, but he also really knew his stuff when it came to coffee. Thanks to him, I still got that cold brew vibe--almost the same taste too! Left feeling pretty happy. read more

Granted it was 30 minutes before closing, the staff looked like they were already checked out. No greeting, nor any gesture to even make it to the register - just sipping their drink, frowning, washing it down the sink and finally dragging their heel (literally) themselves to me. Also, I thought this place was a roastery. Twice I have been here and decaf isn't available by the bag. So I take my business to O'Henrys. However! Trying to give them the COVID buffer... the basil lavender latte is very unique - a bit weak on the lavender but fresh basil in coffee was new for me. I will just add that the foam was a bit weak and the microfoam I would expect at such an establishment was non-existent. In sum, I am willing to give this another go but third time better be good or it's my last trip ever. There are outstanding roasteries nearby that will have both the service and the goods I am looking for. read more

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This place is consistently a joke. Five employees not looking that busy, one of which standing at the cash chatting with a customer about life. I stand there for anybody even bothering saying "I'll be right with you". Nope, nobody cared about me standing at the cash for 3 minutes. A joke of a coffee shop. This is just bad management. read more

Super cool coffee shop located in the relatively new shopping center that includes Tre Luna and Moe's. This place was pretty busy for a Tuesday morning. Lots of people at tables but still plenty of room for more! I don't do coffee but heard they have breakfast items so decided to pick up something to take home after my doctor's appointment. I got a bacon egg and cheese bagel for myself and Nutella, strawberry, and banana crepes for the kid. The crepes smelled amazing and the kid loved them! Even had the leftovers for lunch! My bagel was really good too. I will definitely come here again and will keep it in mind if I just want a place to hang out with a friend. read more

Santos Coffee - Hoover - Interior - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Hoover, Alabama

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Great coffee, great food. I've had a crepe and a bagel sandwich, both were delicious. Service is also good and it's nice to have a drive through. read more

I got the caramel cafe and the egg bites with bacon. I received it quickly. The coffee was delicious and the egg bites were a perfect protein brunch snack between meals. Indoor and outdoor seating available. The menu had a nice variety. read more

Coffee was delicious but the baristas were scrambled and randomly put out orders. They had bad attitudes when you ask about anything. We asked if my moms drink could be a little sweeter and were told "I mean I guess we could add syrup but you really don't need that." Register employee was really impatient. The place seemed nice ambiance but was ruined by the employees. read more

Santos Coffee - Hoover - Matcha Strawberry Latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Hoover, Alabama

The food is wonderful. The service is good for the number of people on a Sunday mid-morning. The ambiance is quite like no other.

I feel like when people say they go to Santos, they're usually referring to this location. It's a bit out of my way so I don't typically venture here, but it's such a hot study spot that my friends managed to drag me over. This location felt wildly uncomfortable from the get go. The tables were small and even with only 3 people it felt like our laptops, coffees, and all else on the tables were practically on top of each other. The chairs all kept making the worst squeaky noise that was terrible on the ears. I opted for their iced pumpkin spice latte (a favorite order of mine wherever I go) and it really was one of the worst I've ever had :( it was EXTREMELY artificially sweet and reminded me of cough medicine, no pumpkin or spice notes to be detected. I'll only ever come back if friends are set on studying here, but won't be wasting my money. read more

This cute coffee shop was buzzing on Saturday morning. It was like Central Perk from the sitcom Friends. With lots of indoor and outdoor seating there were several clicks hanging out and enjoying their brews. The store is perfectly located near neighborhoods. We walked there, but noticed some customers arrive by golf cart. Kristine and I ordered two Iced Cafe Mocha, decaf. The drinks were very good. Not too sweet and no whipped cream topping. I liked the plastic cup. It has an enclosed lid with an opening for drinking. Our barista was not very friendly. There was no greeting; no "good morning", not even a "hey". He was busy making another order when he asked for ours. It was awkward because he didn't make eye contact. It was difficult to tell ihe was paying attention to us. read more

Santos Coffee - Hoover - Macey likes Santos - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Hoover, Alabama

Nice interior. Nice exterior. Lotsa space, interesting steam-punk decor. And... it takes a half hour to get coffee. The lady running the iPad register was super sweet, chatty and blithely unaware of the snail's pace of the line. Food prep takes quite some time, and it seemed like a brand new business. The barista was SLOW. This is a place for crepes, kids, and people with nowhere to be, for at least half a day to get a cup of morning joe. My wife states, "That place is chaotic." read more

Santos Coffee - Hoover - Outdoor seating. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Hoover, Alabama

Great spot located In front of Hoover Sports Complex. Coffee is awesome, people friendly and they are efficient. read more

Santos Coffee - Hoover - Decor on wall. - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Hoover, Alabama

This is the kind of place that should be on every corner. A great example of a high end, quality-driven coffee shop. The room itself is large, open, has high ceilings and plenty of seating. Very clean and tidy. Well appointed without breaking too much from the minimalist vibe that you see in a lot of these sorts of places. The staff seem friendly and knowledgeable about the menu and they seem happy to work here. Huge plus. The pastries as I'm told are baked by a family member here in the area. I didn't try any but they looked amazing. I'll be back for those for sure. The coffee...that's the important part. I had a macchiato and it came out perfectly. Not too acidic, not too bitter, not burnt. Just good, rich coffee. My friend ordered the affogato and it blew my mind so I ordered one as well. A must try. Long story short, I'm glad to see this place open and I hope they do very well. They roast the beans on site. They've got a full menu of coffee drinks, crepes, croissants, cakes you name it. I want to live in a world where places like this are everywhere. If you're looking for great coffee in a really nice, clean, friendly environment then it's worth the trip. read more

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This local coffee spot is becoming a weekly gathering place for the ladies I go to Burn Boot Camp with to socialize. Today, I had an iced mocha with almond milk. It was tasty but not cold enough at the beginning. I guess I wouldn't want a lot of ice to water down the drink though. One observation is that it takes too long to order and there's a long line to order. I'm glad that so many people frequent this new business, and it's in my local neighborhood! read more

Good coffee, nice atmosphere. Will definitely go back. Very good service as staff was polite.

I had the basil lavender latte, it was nicely flavored but tasted more like an earl grey tea than a coffee latte. I asked for it to be extra hot and no foam... it was warm but not hot and about 3/4 inch of space at the top ... if it's a $6 drink it should be filled to the top. My husbands oat milk latte was also mild and just "ok". Our breakfast sandwiches were both hardy and flavorful. Service felt standard but not stand out. I probably wouldn't choose Santos again, but I am quite particular about my coffee. read more

Enjoyed coffee and breakfast with my aunt. The food was hot and fresh. The staff was kind and helpful. The coffee in my opinion was just okay. Enjoyed the decor, but it was just too hot inside and out to enjoy a hang out and chat over coffee and breakfast the day we went. If you are sensitive to heat and humidity, you might want to consider that. read more

I was really pleased with this coffee shop! They have a great selection of foods in addition to coffee as well. Smoothies, crepes, sanwiches, and breakfast bowls. It's hard to miss the beautiful mural passing by, and I knew I needed to stop in. The coffee was absolutely delicious and my lunch was great, too. My fiancé got a breakfast bowl of some sort with scrambled eggs, veggies, meat and cheese as well. He's also had some kind of lavender latte that was amazing. What's really cool is their ties to the Guatemalan coffee farms. I haven't even mentioned the decor yet.. this place is super cool and very "instagrammable". Really a nice place for a coffee or breakfast/lunch! I can't wait to go back and try more of their coffee offerings, and maybe even buy some beans! read more

Santos Coffee - Hoover - Chicken avocado sundries tomato sandwich with mozzarella and chips - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Hoover, Alabama

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I came here for a meeting and I heard great things about this place. So I ordered a mocha frappe and a banana bread. It was very delicious. The staff were very friendly and patient since I never been there. Now if love sweets I would definitely suggest it but if not maybe getting a water since its very sweet. I will definitely add this to my list whenever I am near one. read more

Santos Coffee - Hoover - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Hoover, Alabama

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I've wanted to try this place out because I've seen so many Yelpers checking in! I came around 10am the other morning. It wasn't very busy and I was served right away. I chose the Basil Lavender iced latte and a blueberry muffin recommended by the cashier. The latte was delicious, and I enjoyed the first 3/4 of it. When I got close to the bottom it obviously hadn't been mixed well and it was too sweet to finish. The blueberry muffin was huge and full of blueberries, but very dry and even though the cashier offered to heat it for me, it was very cold, like refrigerator cold. I was having trouble logging into the Wi-Fi, and so I stepped up to the counter to ask for assistance. There were two workers standing there and I approached and stood there for a moment, neither of them offered to help me, and they both walked away and kept their backs to me. Another woman came up to the register to place an order and another attendant came to help her, and I finally asked her to help me with the Wi-Fi. She said it's finicky and to just keep trying. (It did eventually work.) The decor is pretty cool. Lots of vintage coffee stuff and some bright pops of red. All in all, I'm disappointed. This ship lacked the homey, welcoming feel of a coffee shop that I really value. There are a lot of amazing coffee shops in the Birmingham area and I will spend my money at one of those in the future. read more

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This is a cute little coffee shop that my friend and I discovered, while looking for a place to study. It is very clean and spacious, they also have a good amount of available sitting. The atmosphere is quiet and chill, the background music is very soothing and not too loud. The staff was very nice and polite. They have an expanded menu, which includes coffee, non-caffeine drinks, muffins, bagels, and other lunch options. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a quiet study area or just somewhere to chill. read more

The variety of drinks offered are apart from the usual. Service was a bit slow as some workers stood around while one made drinks for multiple orders. read more

The coffee is great. The croissiants are excellent except for the sausage one. They take the sausage out of the cold storage and heat it for two minutes on a croissant resulting in eating cold sausage. The muffins are okay. read more