I wish there were more than 5 stars on Yelp. I recently had the pleasure of experiencing Shaydyside Coffee + Sips, and I must say it was a delightful encounter. This coffee truck offers a simple and efficient setup that is both user-friendly and inviting. The large QR code on one side of the window makes it a breeze to scan for a digital menu, while the printed menus on the other side offer a traditional option. Additionally, they prominently display their website address and Instagram handle, making it easy for patrons like me to become instant followers (I may have turned into a bit of a stalker, but their content is just too good!). Specials and suggested specialty coffees are creatively presented on a charming easel placed on the ground, which immediately catches your eye.
The ordering process is seamless; you place your order through the main window and receive your delicious concoctions through a smaller door window. The price point is on par with other coffeehouses, with options ranging from $2.50 for a classic Espresso (extra shot for $0.50) to $4-6.50 for regular coffee and specialty items.
With the helpful suggestions from the friendly Shaydyside team, we decided to go for the Garden Latte and The Music Man. The Garden Latte, infused with homemade Rosemary Syrup, was an absolute delight. The herbal touch was subtle yet distinctive, and while I opted for a medium level of sweetness, I would recommend going lighter if you want to savor the rosemary more. My husband thoroughly enjoyed The Music Man, a delectable peanut butter chocolate latte that was perfectly balanced - still coffee-forward, not a dessert in disguise. He chose the hot version, but the menu offers the flexibility to have it served over ice for a refreshing twist.
There's an intriguing selection of Superfood Lattes on the menu that we regrettably didn't try on this occasion due to limited stomach space. However, the descriptions alone pique curiosity, and I'm urging someone to give them a taste and report back. While they are priced slightly higher at $7.50/$8.25, the ingredients are an exotic blend of flavors that sound absolutely irresistible.
Every business has room for improvement, and in the case of Shaydyside Coffee + Sips, a few minor suggestions come to mind. Adding a few bistro tables outside the truck would provide a pleasant spot for customers to linger and enjoy their beverages. Additionally, some ambient music in the style of a traditional coffeehouse could enhance the overall experience.
I later discovered that they do offer the freshly made syrups used in their coffees for purchase, supporting another small local business called Dress the Drink. Promoting this partnership on the menu or truck might help customers realize the availability of these key ingredients. If its already listed, I just missed it but will go check out their site next.
My post-visit obsession led me to uncover that Shaydyside Coffee + Sips is a woman-owned small business that can be booked for private events. If you're looking to treat your employees or host a private event, reaching out to them is a fantastic idea. For the rest of us, keeping an eye on their social media platforms for updates on their whereabouts is a must. They seem to pop up at various Las Vegas music festivals, First Fridays, beer festivals, and more. This coffee truck truly gets around, and I can't wait to indulge in their specialty beverages again soon. read more
