Tender Loving Coffee

Wonderful environment and my caramel latte was so yummy. Perfect portions of avocado toast for our group and super dog-friendly!

Their Greek wrap and breakfast burritos are the stuff of legend. Everything is house-made and cooked right in front of you, which makes the experience feel extra special. Add in their in-house roasted coffee and espresso plus the cozy atmosphere, and you’ve got one of Chico’s true gems.

Upon a recent morning, finding myself possessed of both leisure and a modest desire for refreshment, I ventured into an establishment bearing the gentle and affectionate title of “Tender, Loving Coffee Shop.” I confess, dear reader, that I anticipated nothing more extraordinary than a cup of warm beverage and perhaps a quiet corner in which to collect my thoughts. What I encountered instead was an affair so peculiar that I feel compelled to record it for the benefit of future patrons. Upon crossing the threshold, I was greeted not by the customary bell, but by a solemn chime resembling the toll of a distant chapel. Three attendants emerged at once, each attired in garments of such unusual cut and color that I momentarily wondered whether I had intruded upon a private theatrical rehearsal. One carried a ledger of impressive size, another bore a steaming kettle, and the third held aloft a small brass instrument whose purpose I could not immediately discern. The menu, rather than being printed upon paper, was presented to me in the form of a great leather-bound tome, its pages filled with elaborate script and flourishes. Among its offerings were beverages with titles so enigmatic as to border upon the poetic: “The Reverie Tonic,” “The Scholar’s Respite,” and “The Elixir of Tempered Fortitude.” Feeling adventurous, I selected the latter. While awaiting my order, I surveyed the room and found the seating arrangements to be of a most unconventional nature. Instead of chairs, the establishment provided a variety of wooden stools carved into the likenesses of various woodland creatures. I seated myself upon a fox of respectable craftsmanship, though its expression suggested mild disapproval. Presently, the attendants commenced what they referred to as “The Ceremony of Steeped Intentions.” The lights dimmed, a faint mist arose from some unseen contrivance, and the brass instrument produced a tone both haunting and unexpectedly cheerful. The attendants recited a brief verse concerning the virtues of patience in the brewing of coffee, after which they bowed deeply to the assembled patrons — of whom I appeared to be the sole representative. My beverage arrived in a cup of unusual geometry, possessing twelve sides and a handle shaped like a serpent. The Elixir of Tempered Fortitude proved to be a most invigorating concoction, though its flavor suggested that the beans had been persuaded, rather than compelled, to surrender their essence. At one point, an elderly gentleman seated near the window rose abruptly, declared that he had “at last deciphered the message,” and departed with great haste. The attendants applauded his revelation, though its nature was not disclosed to me. Sensing that further mysteries might soon unfold — and wishing to preserve what remained of my composure — I took my leave with polite haste. I departed with the impression that Tender, Loving Coffee Shop is less a purveyor of beverages and more a sanctuary for the whims of the eccentric and the contemplative. I recommend it to any traveler who delights in curiosities, provided he enters with an open mind and a steady constitution.

I love a vegan cafe and I love the vibe of this place. However, they really need to work on their service. There should not be one person manning the espresso machine and taking orders, and chatting it up with customers. There was a second person there working who was just socializing with customers. It was not busy when I went but I waited at least 15 minutes for a simple order.

Pleasant staff, good espresso, and a culinary magician behind the counter. I didn't know a vegan grilled cheese could be this good. It's a bit of a walk for me, but always worth it.