Trading Grounds
917 Barrington Pkwy, Cedar Rapids, IA
Crema's Take
“This Cedar Rapids gem has earned its loyal following by treating every visitor like a regular, with baristas who genuinely listen and create custom drinks tailored to your taste preferences rather than just taking orders. The warm, unhurried atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to linger over a carefully crafted beverage, whether you're ordering their creative house specialties or a comforting classic like their notably good Caramel Apple Cider. It's the kind of place where supporting local feels effortless because the care shows in every interaction.”
What to expect
Google Reviews
I am from out of town but visit the area relatively frequently so I have been coming to trading grounds for a couple of years now! I have loved coming here as I prefer to support local businesses when traveling versus stereotypical chains that are located everywhere. I’ve always had great drinks, friendly service and I love that they have a a large selection of seasonal beverages as well as a breakfast sandwich that is quite customizable! I did however have a rather negative experience this past weekend, and while I don’t believe one negative experience discounts the multitude of great ones I’ve had, I do find it worth mentioning briefly in hopes others don’t have similar experiences in the future! I had gotten a seasonal beverage saturday morning and loved it, so on sunday I ordered the exact same drink but upon returning home both my partner and I had tried it and noticed something was not quite right with it. I won’t get into drink details but I decided on my way out of town I would simply stop back in to see if it could get altered/remade before I hit the road back home. I’m not one to ever ask for something to be remade or altered as I know how inconvenient it can be during busy times, or when there’s other tasks to be done but seeing as it was ~8 dollars or so and the drastic difference in taste from one day to the next I decided it was worth the ask. Upon returning to the store, I apologized but explained that my drink didn’t taste how it should and was met with instant defensiveness and a tone that I can only describe as combative and humiliating from who I presume is the owner. I tried politely to explain what had tasted wrong with it but continued to be berated and essentially told I was wrong. I have never experienced such immediate cruelty from anyone in my life. He did remake my drink which ended up tasting lovely, and thanked me for bringing it back in but I ultimately left the store in tears, both embarrassed and upset for not being heard. I had no ill intention behind bringing this beverage back in but felt as though I had somehow wronged him. As i tried to collect myself in my vehicle before leaving town, he came out and presented me with a gift card which was appreciated (and not expected), and apologized for my “bad experience” or something along the lines, quite frankly I was still pretty upset and don’t 100% remember. The point to this story being, I was unsure about wanting to return after such a disappointing experience but remembered I have had so many more wonderful visits. I still enjoy this coffee shop and supporting a local business and will enjoy returning in the future, I just hope this experience can be learned from.
Absolutely love this place. I’m not a coffee connoisseur by all means as my kids actually order things for me to try. So when I tell them the flavors that I like they create a drink for me. They have a wide variety of sugar free options as well. Sean and his staff are polite and patient. Beautiful coffee spot to put on your “must try” list.
The wife and I came here to try new places. We were both hungry, and had the morning thirst for something hot and caffinated. A warm welcome as we walked in which was pleasant. There are no food options here beyond pastries, and a few pre packaged bread items ( which for me is a let down ) We ordered the Pleasantville ( iced ) and a spiced Chai ( hot ) The drinks were good and served fresh and timely. There were about 15 people in the establishment at 8am on a Thursday. Welcoming layout for students, business, and people working remotely as well. Overall I give yours place a 4 being there were no meal/food options.
This place is amazing!!! And I don’t say that lightly! Highly recommend. The drinks were fantastic and the service was even better. There was an extremely helpful and polite barista taking orders- I wish I knew his name to give him recognition. The shop was clean, had good vibes, and there was even well-priced merch. My daughter accidentally spilled my coffee and the barista was kind enough to make me another one on the house without me asking, which I immensely appreciated. Overall, I thought this place had yummy black coffee, an excellent menu that’s not too overwhelming but offers options for everyone, and has a great dirty chai. Went back twice in one day, we liked it so much. And will be back again- thank you!!
The Trading Grounds Coffee Shop had a clean and comfortable atmosphere. The staff was friendly and patient when I was deciding on an order. I found the Caramel Apple Cider to be pretty good. Sweet but not overly so. And it was prepared in a decent amount of time. I’m not sure what their coffee specials are like but I plan to visit again to find out.
Crema Reviews
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