Bad Barista

I ordered the Silky Caramel, iced. I usually ask for light ice but I didn't since it was my first time ordering, so I was pleasantly surprised to see that they don't fill the cup with ice to begin with! Thank you Bad Barista! The drink wasn't too sweet, so I added some sweet and low. They have some additives on the counter. I also ordered the WTF sandwich. I came in the morning and they already didn't have ham. They offered extra of the bacon or turkey, so I took that. The bread wasn't toasted enough for me, or rather, I thought it would be pan toasted with some butter or something, but I think the slices were just put in the toaster. The space might still be in progress. There were tables that were put away on the corners of the room, and no chairs to sit at while waiting. I'll update my review when I visit again. I'm sure things will only improve!

My co-worker friend arranged a coffee meetup with us four former co-workers that resided in Alameda. It was cool since I haven't seen two of them is a while. He arranged for us to meet up at 9am on a Thursday at Bad Barista, his favorite local coffee shop located at the Encinal Shopping Center, a small neighborhood strip mall. When I arrived, I remember this being the former Café Aulait. Checking out the menu board, offering consists of coffee drinks, teas, frappes, smoothies, shushes and breakfast sandwiches and bagels, square muffins and croissants. I got a large drip and was hoping their offerings would including pastries, but they only had bagels and the square muffins as they were out of croissants. They have a quaint patio in the back for you to enjoy your drinks and food. It was quiet and we were able to catch-up with our coffees. Worker was friendly. No restroom on the premises as it is located across at the Encinal Market Good local coffee shop with a quaint patio. Hope they expand their offering to include breakfast pastries options.

So glad that I skipped Carl Jrs this morning and got a breakfast sandwich at Bad Barista. The quality, ingredients and appearance of the fast food breakfast sandwiches are so poor in comparison! BB gave me a choice of bread types and cheese types. The ham was thick, the cheese was real, the bread was toasty and warm, and the cook is friendly and motivated business owner. It was everything the fast food places lack. Its my new place for a quick breakfast.

Worst coffee I've had in a while, drink was way too sweet and coffee was burnt. Had to toss it. Watched a barista make a sandwich without gloves. Heard the terror of screeching as milk was steaming. Seems like someone took over a coffee shop for fun and didn't really think logistics or quality through. Pastries look like they're from Costco being resold. Decor screams high school girl meets hot topic. The cafe could have potential, menu is interesting and creative but the ingredients are bit too basic and low quality. Give it a shot anyway if you dare.

Walked in and visited Cafe Au Lait while across the street at the local plant shop and needed a little caffeine boost. The cafe itself is pretty simple with a menu spanning a variety of drinks. There were also small bites available but I was only interested in a coffee.- Vietnamese CoffeeWhen I ordered the Viet coffee, I had the choice to choose between hot or iced. It was a really warm day and I almost always opt for a cold drink anyways so I asked for it iced. The coffee took about 5 min before it was ready. I was one of only two people in the cafe so it came out quickly.Flavor wise, I enjoyed it. It wasn't as dark, strong, or bitter as other Viet coffees I've had but I was okay with it. It was lightly sweet and I drank through it quite quickly to be honest. The only thing is that it could have used more ice. Usually when f I ask for an iced drink, I would expect it to come out cold but it seemed only a little bit of ice was iced so when the coffee was poured in, it melted almost all the ice and the temp was Luke warm at best

Pulled up for groceries near Encinal market & noticed this adorable sign outside- went inside for a cappuccino & it was on point! Worth a return visit for sure.

I can't believe I've only stumbled this place recently! Alameda is a great Island City, yet there's still so many places and establishments to discover.I have been a regular at Alameda Marketplace's The Beanery off Park Street (since college days LOL), when it comes to coffee & espresso beverages (usually my go-to) - but this small, independent coffee shop is as special as it can get! I was thrilled to make a pit stop here for a fresh cup of joe before I headed to nearby St. Philip Neri's for morning mass - and little did I know that you can hella walk to and from this place to the church with no need to get in your car to drive and park! #lessonlearnedUpon my first impression & first time here, I already felt the sense of inclusivity & hospitality, since it seems like a regular place for folks within this part of Alameda - and I have GOT TO try their Vietnamese Coffee on my next visit, LOL. A small coffee shop that bursts to its seams - they have fresh-baked doughnuts & pastries, along with breakfast sandwiches, and other snacks that you wouldn't think of being available at this tiny establishment! Don't let the location and atmosphere fool you - this has been a family-friendly/oriented neighborhood staple amongst the regulars & from what I have skimmed along these reviews. Glad I found this place, and I now know where to get coffee once I step foot on the Island City of the East Bay! This is truly a #shiftlocal destination for those who support local all the way!

Good cold brew and bagel sandwiches. Friendly staff and good location with parking available.

Great staff, especially Theresa. Good coffee and bagels, convenient location with parking.

I love the new rebranding- the coffees and service here are amazing. I also love that it is never too busy like other cafes where you have to wait in a long line for your order.