Gallery Place Retail Update

Regarding Starbucks, we’re creatures of habit I guess. Juan V. even has free wireless, I should try them out. You know what I would really love to see come to C-Town/Penn Qtr. a Tryst (Adams Morgan)like establishment…that would be the hotness.

I agree. If we can’t find a grocer for the much talked about space, let’s get a decent, reasonably priced diner/restaurant that is open late (and even Sundays!).

As I’m generally not a fan of Starbucks, I was very excited about Juan Valdez. After numerous tries, however, I had to give up on them. Their lattes just aren’t good. I’m a big fan of the staff at the 7th and E (they’re friendly and quick) Starbucks but I’d jump ship if Juan could make a drink that didn’t taste like dirty water.

although i am white-collar, i like my coffee houses alternative. The Warehouse at 7th and New York is a nice artsy place.

Juan Valdez rules! Try the “Cubano” — an espresso with brown sugar. If you want lattes, maybe you should stick to the corporate green neighbor, but if you want good, strong, basic coffee, stick to the commies across the street!

Speaking of independent places with free wifi, try Aziz Cafe at 9th and O. (It’s a little further north, but worth the trip.)

I work right next to Juan V. I’ve tried their coffee on a number of occasions. The “coffee of the day” choices were regular or decaf. The staff didn’t know what they were serving. Normally I wouldn’t expect much in this situation, but they do offer multiple roasts of coffee for sale in the “gift” area… so if you’re going to play the “we’re serious about coffee game,” then do so. On to the coffee. Half a block down the street, in the ground floor of the DOJ building, is a small convenience store. They sell convenience store coffee at convenience store prices. I find the quality of their coffee to be much better than that of Juan V. In fact, I can not tell the difference between Juan V’s coffee and any institutional coffee.

If you want Juan V to succeed then educate your staff and improve your coffee making technique.

I believe “Zengo to go” is open. Yesterday, their service windows were opened and there was food on the rack on the back wall.

zengo is hardly new – it has been open since at least janaury. it’s great!

The reason Juan Valdez is empty is the sterile, corporate environment. Even Starbucks is more appealing, and has friendlier, more knowledgeable staff.