Smokey Row Coffee
840 School St, Carlisle, IA
Crema's Take
“This Carlisle spot trades sleek minimalism for a charming 1950s nostalgia trip, with eccentric vintage memorabilia lining the walls that makes lingering over espresso feel like stepping back in time. While the espresso-focused menu and willingness to remake drinks suggest real care about craft, the experience can feel uneven—some customers rave about the staff's kindness and atmosphere, while others have struggled with inconsistent milk steaming and spotty service timing. It's the kind of place that shines brightest when you catch them on a good day and settle in for a slow sit rather than a quick grab.”
What to expect
Google Reviews
The food is great, but the customer service is terrible. Every time I am in there, it takes me flagging down someone before they even greet me. I was there for a pick up order today and there were three girls right in front of me making drinks and nobody even said hi to me for several minutes until I asked who I needed to talk to about a pick up order. Seems like it should be pretty simple to at least say hi and I’ll be with you in a minute.
The Des Moines location near Windsor Heights mis-made my drink, but the Carlisle location that I’m leaving this review for fixed it without any hesitation. They were so kind about it, even though it wasn’t their mistake, and they even offered to make me a completely different drink. I come to this location all the time, and this is exactly why. I honestly feel like not enough people know about this spot, they’re amazing!!
I’ve had good coffee here before. But for the most part, every time we come, they over steam the milk and I can’t actually drink it. Then once it is cool enough, the coffee tastes burned. This is something that is an easy fix.
i recently stopped by this smokey row location and, though my drink order was correct, the service was awful. i am aware that i went through at an early time(around 6:20am), however as i went through the drive-tru i was spoken to like i was a burden for coming through. the tone given at the speaker box was not friendly whatsoever and made me feel as though i should’ve gone elsewhere. when i pulled up to the window, the barista with purple-ish hair greeted me with the same deadpan tone as i was given at the speaker when id initially gotten there. i am insanely dissatisfied and disappointed in the service i was given and probably wont return.
The staff and establishment are AMAZING! The inside of the building is an old school 1950's vibe with eccentric wall memorabilia from different bygone eras. I went Halloween day and the staff were all dressed as The Minions. They invited a young man with special needs into a photo with all the staff as he LOVES the Minions. The staff asked if they could share the photo on social media and the family was more than happy to allow them to. The staff care for the community and it shows. Their menu includes perfectly portioned breakfast and lunch items that are cooked well and taste great. The coffee had a deep, complex flavor and don't think just GET the cream cheese muffin (heated up) - it is amazing!