illy Caffè
4100 George J Bean Pkwy, Tampa, FL
Crema's Take
“This espresso-focused spot in Tampa shines brightest through the dedication of its standout staff members like Kam, who elevate even a quick coffee run into a genuinely warm experience. The robust, quality espresso and fresh pastries hit the mark consistently, making it a reliable choice whether you're catching an early morning flight or need a properly executed shot to power through your day. It's the kind of place where service can be hit-or-miss depending on who's behind the counter, but when you land with one of the genuinely kind baristas, they'll make your visit memorable.”
What to expect
Google Reviews
Mixed feelings on my visit. One of the baristas was very, I'll say, lackluster, but the other was so sweet and saved the day. The coffee was good. Nice robust flavor and seemed good quality. The little market they have has good options but of course everything is airport prices. I wanted my latte extra sweet, but not flavored. The cashier just took it upon herself to charge me $3 extra without warning. She could have offered me to use the sugar packets in place if charging me $0.99 per pump of sugar syrup. That was really uncalled for. My large latte cost me $11. Things like that cost the baristas tips. It's a noisy atmosphere and her mumbling something and syrup is not well heard. Don't put your poorest communicator at the register. Put someone who is well spoken with a smile.
The small coffee that came with the chicken and biscuit just wasn't enough juice to get me moving, so I stopped here on the way to my Delta gate. Since I no longer have access to the Delta Sky Club (oh, the mighty have fallen), this felt like the next best option and honestly it worked out just fine. They offer plenty of coffee choices, but I went with something very traditional and very Italian, the kind of thing you'd expect in a proper coffee house, and other than the fact that it came in a paper cup it was excellent. And really, it's not like anyone is breaking out ceramic mugs in an airport, right? The coffee was brewed and handed over quickly. I drank it the traditional way, standing at the bar instead of taking it for a walk, sipping quietly while watching the barista work through the morning orders. There's something grounding about that little pause before the flight. So much better than the green siren people.
Employee Kam was OUTSTANDING, KIND and CONSIDERATE, CONSUMMATE PROFESSIONAL in her execution for each customer prior to and after me. I appreciate her service and highly recommend ALL to visit this establishment. BLESSINGS ALWAYS!! Dolores
The coffee is hot and flavorful, the croissant is warm and fresh. Even at 4:30 AM, all the workers are friendly and pleasant. They have made my journey more enjoyable already.
Unbelievable service! I had ordered a cheese sandwich. I was with my grandson, his order was all there which was fine with me. My cheese sandwich was not on the receipt, they offered to hurry and make me one; however, they were busy so I just told them never mind that I was fine and we headed to our gate. 5 minutes later an employee from the cafe hunted me down at the gate and brought me my grilled cheese plus he threw in an extra blueberry muffin. Outstanding customer service, you have a great team there!!!
Crema Reviews
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