Old F.
Yelp
-1 - Ambience. Mostly about the high decibel music that was playing. It made it nearly impossible to have a normal volume conversation.
-1 - Options. Despite being a roaster location, as in they have a roaster on premise, there is no option to try the other coffees. That includes pour over, chemex, or even a french press. I have to ding them for this, because I would expect that of an affiliated location.
+1 - Customer Service. The staff was knowledgeable about their coffee and even took the time to explain their basis for not wishing to support alternative coffee options, outside of 'drip of the day' and espresso.
+1 - Quality. The coffee featured as part of their 'drip of the day' was enjoyable and demonstrates why they are a respected roaster.
+1 - Location. Located in a neighborhood, Lighthouse's location is walkable in the neighborhood and we found accessible parking nearby.
Background.
On a typical day, we arrived for our first experience. The exterior was clean, the door easily accessible, and the wait wasn't that long. However, upon entering, we found the music unpleasantly loud. For the record, we don't expect a coffee shop to feature whisper quiet background music. But the volume of the music was so high, it made our AirPod Pro microphones (since these featured noise canceling) produce static when we turned on the noise cancellation feature.
At the counter, we saw the coffee of the day but inquired on other presentation options or if other varieties/blends were available. The staff explained the amount of equipment for the location was prohibitive. Instead, they invited us to try their 'drip of the day' or an espresso-infused drink. We elected to try one of each.
The barista made the drinks quickly and well, from order to receipt.
Sitting down, the volume of the music was unpleasant. But, we elected to drink our coffee and leave, as we recognize the music's volume was more for the staff's needs than for the customers.
Some might disagree and argue we should have insisted they turn it down. But, we felt this was akin to going into someone's house and ask them to move the furniture.
Overall, we would return for a takeaway option and assuming the drip of the day is one that is up our alley.
As always, your individual experience will vary.