Cartel Roasting Co

The customer service is absolutely horrible. I’ve gotten coffee there 3 times because it’s easier on the way to work. The first time there was no greet, hello or acknowledgment. Walked up to the counter and the 2 baristas looked over at me. Nothing. The girl eventually walked up and monotone of “what would you like”. Thought it was maybe that one time. I went back 2 times and same experience. Waiting for the coffee to be made I watched other customers come in and same thing. Going back to chain coffee stores. Upside: Coffee is good and hot is served in cute little cozy cups (if you’re staying). The layout and space would make for a cool place to hang out for a bit or study.

Ordered an espresso tonic to try, a friend from NYC suggested it. The drink was fine, but at $8.10 was completely outrageous and ridiculous. FYI in NYC in Manhattan on the same day Jan. 8, 2026 - it was $6.00!

Cartel is one of those places you walk into and immediately feel like staying a while. The space is warm, industrial, low-key cool, no rush energy, just good vibes and good coffee. The mocha? Deliii. Rich, smooth, not overly sweet, the kind you actually enjoy sip by sip. And the vegan burrito… unexpectedly emotional. It legit tastes like a paste from Hidalgo, flaky, comforting, savory, not pretending to be anything else, just really well done. Las papas con rajas poblanas, nunca fallan. Everything tastes thoughtful. You can tell they care about flavor, not trends. Perfect spot to slow down, drink something good, and eat something that feels familiar even if you can’t explain why. Definitely coming back. Cartel gets it.

Ordered a large chai with cashew milk. The barista didn't say anything regarding the size. Didn't explain large is really a small. Paid $8.07 with 15% tip. This is the size I was given!! I haven't been here in years. I used to order large and it was bigger than this. Will continue to go to Raging Sage basically next door or Coffee Times which is a ways further, but worth the price and size options of their drinks!!! I held up this chai to my class for the day and asked them what size they thought it was. When I told them, they laughed and said I got robbed! As far as the chai itself, it is delicious! Definitely not worth the price though. Would have been nice if the barista said something about the size. She was aware I don't go there. As I asked where I was again(I was trying to think of what milk alternatives they had) and said I wasn't familiar with their milk alternatives. I also asked for hazelnut and she said they don't have it. Plenty of reasons for her to know I was not familiar with Cartel coffee! Will NOT go there again! Sad because I loved this place when I used to go years ago! I'm usually not near it until recently.

Cartel Roasting Co is by far my favorite coffee shop. The atmosphere is relaxed but full of energy, and it’s the kind of place you can hang out, work, or just enjoy a really good cup of coffee. Luke makes the best lattes I have ever had, smooth, creamy, and crafted with care every time. The flavor of the coffee they use is bold, strong, and rich, yet still balanced so it’s never overpowering. Every sip is satisfying and keeps me coming back for more. This spot has definitely set the bar high for what great coffee should taste like.