We ordered: Cold brew Americano House Coffee Positives: -coffee beans -menu -the space -espresso Negatives: -pretentious staff: we asked a skinny red haired/red bearded guy what the cold brew was and his reply was "beans and water" then after we clarified that we know how coffee is made, we asked what beans were used for the cold brew for which he replied "whatever we have" Business Suggestions: -don't be rude to the people who employ you (your customers). -if your not excited about your coffee then why should I be? Will we return: We will not return. We don't support/vote for businesses who treat their customers rudely, not to mention that pretentious coffee shops are becoming too common. The Tucson coffee scene is growing and the majority are now serving quality coffee, the competitive factor will inevitably become customer engagement, customer service, and community outreach. Currently Savaya Coffee Market is doing all 3 very well. We will go there for a more positive experience. But of course, to each his/her own. read more

While the space itself is a big surprise considering it's located in a sort of stripmall --- gorgeous! --- the coffee...not so much. Soy milk is their only non-dairy option, which is sort of a bummer, especially when most other coffee shops in Tucson offer almond milk as well. The espresso itself was different both times I visited: once, mediocre, and the other time absolutely awful :(. I wanted to like this place so much, but a coffee shop needs kickass coffee, first and foremost. read more

Coffee was maybe a 7/10, espresso was good but the iced coffee was week. Service and atmosphere were terrible. We were told very rudely that "it is a health code violation" to stand in line and order coffees while holding an eegee. We were also told that it was "against company policy to add vanilla syrup to iced drinks". Sad to see what used to be a great hangout reduced to rude pointless elitism. read more

I used to hate Cartel. Allow me to explain. When I am asking for a coffee recommendation, I really don't want to feel like someone's reading the last sentence of Ulysses to me. Just tell me what your favorite is and why you like it. At Cartel, and at Avenue before it, the baristas came off as *such* snobs, going on about the different kinds of berries and woods and whatnot their coffee tasted like. Telling me that my coffee tastes like a birch tree isn't going to sell me on it. In spite of this, Cartel's coffee speaks for itself. It's absolutely delicious. I've never had a bad cup of coffee or espresso from Cartel. And considering the move and remodel, it's looking pretty sleek. It can get pretty loud though, and sometimes the baristas can put on really obnoxious music -- yes, we all love gangster rap from time to time, but rarely during a coffee shop experience. I have a couple relatively minor gripes. One, there is quite a lack of vegetarian and especially vegan food options. They did recently add a pretty good roasted red pepper and balsamic sandwich, but it's nothing you couldn't make just as well yourself and save $7+. Secondly, the wi-fi cannot handle the load a full shop puts on it. It will invariably kick you off for ten or more minutes, or be otherwise too slow to enjoyably work or browse the web. If you need a good wi-fi connection, I wouldn't come here when it's packed. Cartel is obviously a very successful coffee shop, they should invest in better routers or something! read more

Cartel is serving up some seriously tasty bites. For real. They earned that fifth star for the food. Pretty much everything reads well on the menu, but I was craving breakfast so I went with their breakfast sandwich called the Digby. Ciabatta bread with thick bacon, two sunny-side up eggs, spinach and tomato and peso aioli. Holy cra*p was it good. I was taken aback by this glorious little sandwich. The boyfriend ordered the frittata, which was also an excellent choice. We share everything, so I get to review that dish too. Served with a red pepper aioli and buttery toast the frittata was super delicious, fluffy and chock full of veggies and more bacon! Loved it all. Can't wait to try lunch. We ordered breakfast items around 11:30 which is also a plus. Lunch menu has classic sandwich and salad offerings with a bit of a gourmet twist and their evening menu is lighter fare. Great food and great coffee. Cartel is solid spot. read more

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I came here a few times in college (a few years ago) but usually preferred Coffee X-Change. I decided to come back and try Cartel (it was in a slightly different spot in this strip mall last time I was here). My first impression was of a hipster coffee shop, very similar to shops unique to Brooklyn and other parts of NYC. The decor felt industrial, which might appeal to some, but it didn't feel like a welcome place where I would want to study (in comparison to Espresso Art or Caffe Lucce). The menu is fairly simple, but I actually enjoy the taste of coffee, so I figured I would like whatever I ordered. I generally prefer darker roasts of coffee with a splash of cream just to help smooth out the flavor. I ordered cold brew, as I love Trader Joe's cold brew concentrate. After paying, I asked the barista where the cream was at. Apparently, this is a crime against humanity. At first, I thought he was angry because I asked a question. I didn't see it upon my first glance around so asking seemed like the sensible thing to do. The barista rolled their eyes and pointed to where it was. I was under the distinct impression that this is a shop populated by hipster coffee purists. Perhaps it's just personal preference, but I prefer shops where I'm treated well. I don't need to be welcomed on a red carpet with shining faces. I understand the woes of working in customer service myself, so I know not every customer gets a smile and pleasant conversation from the employees. However, I don't think it's asking too much to be treated politely. I could see past all this if the coffee were amazing. I found the cold brew to be incredibly bitter with a sour aftertaste, even with the cream. I suspect either the coffee they used was stale or had it a poor ratio of water to coffee. Or I just don't like the type of blend they use to make their cold brew. Either way, I don't plan on going back to a place I know I'm not even welcome. read more

After missing a near head on trying to get into the cafe just south, i flipped around and decided to give Cartel a try. Through the doors I had a moment of reservation with my own hipness on the low side, and the stark wood 'menu' behind the counter. But the barista waited patiently for me to sort out my thoughts and proceeded on with my iced latté. Having been a bit brainwashed with needing a good 10 inches of coffee, I was a bit disappointed to see how small by large looked. Though when i saw the 'red cap' milk come out I was okay that I wasn't going to down too much of the whole stuff. And yes, I was still a wee bit intimidated to ripple the cool pond by stopping him half pour to ask for skim, or 2%; this was a a man with a process. It was a pleasure to watch him make mine, and the cup before me. A few squirts of honey syrup before i lidded up and headed out the door (and can I thank all things good in the the Cartel world for offering this. pure heaven. a perfect sweetener.) The coffee was amazing. It was so layered and complex, yet welcoming and familiar. Rainbows appeared from the tears of joy streaming down my face. Okay, not that last part. But it was really, really good. And I want more. read more

Ok. I'm now officially done with this place. I used to go in pretty much daily, spending a good chunk over 4 hours with coffee, a treat and a meal. The internet is routinely sluggish - really, if the $4 cups of regular coffee can't provide an investment into more bandwidth, you're just making bad money choices. One of those is in having excessive staff, BTW. It's like a school bus behind the counter. Worse, the internet kicks you off after 2 hrs. That's fine - I actually think that's a good compromise strategy for the clueless children who would otherwise turn it into another Coffee XChange. However, it also means that I've lost important online data several times due to lack of forewarning in the connection being severed. Recently, they've made new hires and I find the new staff lacking the polish and sophistication - fine, pretension, but in a good way - of the former staff. The baristas don't actually give you what you've ordered, but what they assume you meant. Everybody is getting anything but an espresso in a to-go cup, like it or not. Frankly, for a place that can't seem to crank out anything in less than 10 minutes, I'm not sure why they think much of their business is on the run. Lastly, though the manager appears to be a bit too long in the tooth to have hot flashes, I can only assume that's why she routinely props the doors open with large cinderblocks when it's 40 degrees outside and anyone sitting close to the doors will freeze. I mean, it's not supposed to be an endurance trial, people. There are simply too many options in town to put up with any of the nonsense. read more

Avenue Coffee is barely ok, not much else, could use some major work. Coffee wasn't that bad, not great, cookies, baked goods are really average/bland. They need to get better baked goods than the "usual" no taste cookies, etc. I felt like vomiting after I ate a no taste cookie. Employees are "forced friendly" in a rude sort of way, a bit agitated for some reason. Gossiped about me & my "mohawk" when I was deciding whether or not to come in. (Big Big Big put off). "Don't talk about customers when I know you're talking about us". Vibe is small with nice A/C, not enough seating, computer hog college jerks taking good tables for hours. Need to get a jug or water refill area with actual "hard" plastic cups. I had to wait in line for water refill. Soft rock crap music is annoyng, try classical, not too loud. My debit card was charged twice for ONE purchase. Tip added in??? No "repeat customer card", head over to Raging Sage Coffee Roasters instead. NOTE: Be skeptical of the "positive" Reviews put up by friends of the place. read more

Cartel Coffee Lab is a slice of caffeinated heaven in a nondescript strip mall. Seriously, the outside completely belies how charming this place is. Lots of rustic wood and metal, abundant seating and wi-fi, friendly and unpretentious baristas -- it's everything you'd ever want in a coffee shop. If I were a U of A student, I would just move in here and never leave. My only gripe: my cappuccino tasted a little burnt. read more

Cartel Roasting Co - cappuccino - Cafes Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

Love everything about Cartel...I frequently visit with my son. The coffee is fabulous, and so are their house made pastries. We usually get the coffee cake or one of their amazing chocolate chip cookies. My son loves the hot chocolate-it has a very unique taste. The decor has a sort of steampunk feel to it, which is a lot of fun, and there is plenty of seating. I highly recommend Cartel for true coffee lovers! read more

This is a hard review to write... a few months ago I would have given Avenue 10 stars for their awesome coffee at great prices with excellent customer service. Today, the coffee and espresso is still exceptional and served with beautiful artistic skill - near perfect every time (a few of the newest baristas (David, Jason) sometimes pull bitter shots). It is not as perfectly consistent as before and I am sad that they no longer support other local businesses by serving locally roasted coffee. I originally appreciated the high quality coffee at a great value... I might not be able to afford them anymore and I really don't want to pay $5 for a cup of drip coffee - no matter how great it is. But the biggest problem is I no longer know how much any of their drinks cost... They put up hand-made (think kids lemonade stand) signs with no prices. The prices (and # of shots in each drink) are in constant flux, and the last time I went in the new business partner Jason ignored me when I asked how many shots are in a 16 oz. Mocha and how much it costs.... as a long term customer who has supported them and brought in new customers, I was offended by how I was treated. I find Jason to be arrogant and rude - not the best attitude for attracting customers to your business. Besides the excellent coffee I was initially attracted to Avenue by the friendly atmosphere Jenny and Mark created. Nate, Micha and other baristas really got to know their customers by name. It was really becoming a community of coffee lovers. Now there is a tense, arrogant, almost angry environment much of the time - I try to go when my favorite baristas are working to reclaim the original feel of my experience (and to ensure the consistency of the shots). I need to give particular kudos to Nate, who may be slow but pulls the best espresso shots in Tucson - and does it with an awesome attitude and friendly customer service!!!!! I am also sad to see the blendeds go... I am torn because I want to continue to support them but I may have no choice but to seek out a new coffeehouse for the summer. It makes me very sad. I have eperienced better at Avenue - I know they are capable of being a better coffeehouse then they are today! I give 5 stars to the coffee, espresso drinks, free wifi, and solid long term baristas. I give only 1 star to customer service, for their lack of consistency, lack of prices, and new found desire to tell customers what they should and should not enjoy when drinking coffee. sigh. read more

5 stars for their Cobb salad .. Buttermilk dressing is delish as well as their fresh crunchy croutons and their perfectly fried large bacon bits . 5 stars for their green tea it's amazing ! However 1 star for their slow internet!! It literally took me 20 mins to log into their network but it's so slow that I'm thinking about going somewhere else to work ! Ugh Overall great place to study and hang out with friends just as long as you don't need to use the internet! read more

Cartel Roasting Co - Cobb salad - Cafes Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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Woke up late on a Friday morning after my alarm didn't go off, only to realize I was out of coffee and my phone was dead; I couldn't call into work to let them know I would be late. I stopped by Raging Sage on my way in, thinking that even though they were notoriously slow, it'd at least be good coffee. The line was out the door. Not a good start to my day. I turned around and went back to my car, wondering where I was going to get anything better than the office drip coffee. Just down the street was the Cartel Coffee Lab, with only one car in front. I veered off Campbell, pulled into a spot and ran inside. Two friendly guys were behind the counter. I got smiles and "Good mornings," before placing my order. Good thing I checked ahead of time on how many shots of espresso were in each size. The equivalent of four shots was in the 16oz version. Yikes! I went with the 8oz iced mocha with nonfat milk. After waiting for a few moments (while bouncing my head to the laidback indie rock warbling out the speakers), my coffee was ready. It looked so much smaller than Starbucks or Raging Sage, yet cost as much. I asked the guys about the music, and they filled me in. I thanked them and headed out the door. I took a sip of the coffee--worried about what I had gotten myself into--and almost melted on the sidewalk. The best damn mocha I ever had. Strong stuff: got me through the morning on a great caffeine high. I will *definitely* be back, and I will be choosing CCL over Raging Sage every time now. read more

I can't believe I'm about to say this, but I really do miss Coffee X-Change. Call me a hipster, but Cartel was WAY better when the yuppies and undergrads went over there.... now this place (formerly my favorite coffee shop) tends to be overrun with young parents and their sticky children, as well as LOUD groups of Ashton Kutcher clones. That being said, the pastries are always homemade and very consistent; the coffee is incredible; the tea is impressive; the wine list makes me smile and the draught list makes me glad I finally started appreciating IPA's; the tables and bar are super uncomfortable, but still don't seem to discourage campers. They also have a whiskey list that people love, but I'm a tequila girl. This is where I go when I have to drag work home with me--they're open fairly late and I don't usually get bugged by other patrons or by an overly chatty barista. I'll also head here if I sleep in too late to beat the rush at P&P--Cartel always has a savory scone on weekend mornings and it's to DIE for! Sad panda.... I really miss the full kitchen. They used to have this killer egg sammich that I ordered nearly every weekend, but they switched to pastry only maybe a year ago. read more

Oh shit what is "Grandma" doing at our coffee shop (said the hipsters with their eyes--I am 32) All jokes aside, I LOVED my coffee from Cartel Coffee Lab. Will be back after I stuff myself into some skinny jeans. read more

I've read a number of negative reviews on this business recently, some of which are very well written. However, I have not, as of yet, seen a single salient point from which to deduce what would qualify as a truly "terrible" experience. Since returning to Tucson in March, this is the only coffee lab that I visit. I've used the word "lab" to indicate its merger with Cartel in Phoenix, and also because it is a more accurate descriptor; this business experiments with coffee, from varietals and roasts to extraction techniques. Cartel is not in the business of catering to every mainstream customer who consumes caffeine; they are a specialized and highly trained group of true coffee experts who have decided to educate the public and push coffee as far as they can in the interest of quality. The results are astonishing and delicious. I admit there can be a perceived air of smugness to the establishment, but I give credit where credit is due. Nearly everyone bearing the title of a "barista" will tell you that they are a coffee aficionado - nearly everyone who says as much is wrong and unworthy of the title. The simple fact that Cartel in Tucson refuses to offer inaccurate drinks in accordance with the accepted mainstream coffee culture nomenclature may raise some hackles, but they are not malicious; merely accurate. For example, they say they do not offer iced coffee because they don't. They offer an iced Toddy, a completely different extraction with a vastly different taste. They do not serve a "Caramel Macchiato" because such a drink does not exist except in Starbuck's, is an inaccurate description and bastardization of a real drink, and also a trademarked name. Now, can this vast knowledge base and obsession with coffee purity be seen as belittling to those who are seeking a "normal coffeehouse"? Absolutely. Luckily, this isn't a coffeehouse. It is a lab, whose continued work on coffee benefits everyone from the farmers to the baristi, who in turn try their best to educate the public. It may come off on occasion as being smug, yes, but the intent is to educate, not belittle. No establishment is perfect, but with regards to the continuing search for coffee purity and innovation, Cartel in Tucson is the only game in town, and I, for one, am pleased to have such a facility available. read more

I wish we were not in a global pandemic so I can go back to having meetings at Cartel coffee. Stopped in Sunday Morning for some coffee. This is one place that gets it and takes the safety of their employees and customers very seriously. Take out only, masks required and if you for some reason forgot yours, they do have free ones at the door for you to use. floor is well marked with Physically distancing. Barista was super friendly and helpful. I would have got a savory scone, because I know they are good but already had something to eat. Coffee is so good. Cold Brew does not need anything and their espresso drinks have so much flavor. I wish it wasn't a drive for me, but I will go out of my way again to have coffee read more

So Cartel is a very cool coffee shop. I went in there for the first time, and was warmly greeted with a smile and a funny story about the delicious outcome of a coffee based brewed beer that was served the prior night. Which leads me to...not only is Cartel a coffee shop, but a bar that serves beer and wine! You have your "uppers" and "downers" all in one place. Cartel gives the feel of a large industrial space that has large front windows. There are a variety of options for seating from the long centered table with small stools, the booths near the back, and a leather coach near the front for a more comfy experience. A chess set is available for play while you wait for your deliciously slow brewed coffee. They also offer awesome breakfast choices! I ordered the Firttata, which was absolutely MARVELOUS! It came with toast and a delicious jam that was obviously handmade and not too sweet. You could taste the quality of ingredients, and the love that was put in to the preparation of the meal. The prices were reasonable and the quality was great. I am looking forward to going back soon! Thanks Cartel! read more

Great cafe. I scouted a bunch of cafes when I came to Tucson because I like to get work done outside of the hotel room. Cartel was my favorite, though I also like Raging Sage (right down the street but pretty small) and SparkRoot. Cartel is just plain cool. And not empty cool, you know, pretty but unsubstantial? This place has a swagger because they know they're doing things right. I like to take home some beans to the coffee aficionados back in the Pacific North West because it's one of the few places that passes muster with them. I also like taking home beans from Four Barrel in SF, so check them out if you're a coffee nut and looking for a similarly great cafe in the Mission District. Okay, so the coffee... not bitter, but very strong. They offer organic milk. They pull a mean double shot and they have one of those Italian espresso machines that costs about $6k. It's consistently top notch. And they're very nice. Today I indulged with a slice of Almond Blueberry Cake that I've been eyeing all week. I have been getting their Summer Salad, doing my best to ignore the beautiful pastries. This salad was lovingly made by a sweetie in the back who carefully sliced all the strawberries, drizzled just the right amount of high quality balsamic vinegar on top and served it to me with a smile. It was delicious, and delicious day after day. They need some help with the green tea, though, be warned. Green tea gets real bitter if not steeped properly and their focus is clearly on coffees not teas. The space is creative, a little dark, and has a nice buzz. Good quality art on display (and for sale) by local artists. Lots of salvaged wood in the open decor, a couple of beautiful taxidermied pheasants in flight above the doorways. Music is a little loud so bring earplugs or your own music if inclined, but this means that you can chat with your friends or have others chatting nearby without it driving you nuts. I also like that they change up the music. Yesterday it was an early Beatles and Rolling Stones mix. Today the vibe was much lighter with Jem, Beck and some other soft crooning voices - nice change up. Oh yeah, and that walnut blueberry cake was worth the wait. So yummy with my decaf latte. My bf is laying by my side right now telling me to rave about it. So rave rave rave walnut cake deliciousness rave rave. : ) read more

I've passed by this place a thousand times and never thought about it until one day after waxing and I really needed some good, non-chain coffee. I was in the area and decided to drop in. Friendly hipster atmosphere (and I'm not a hipster) nice coffee, cool looking to deserts and plenty of room to spread out and work. Pretty reasonably priced and I would go back again. read more

Cartel Roasting Co - 16oz cold brew - Cafes Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

Particularly in the mornings, this coffee shop hits the spot. Quiet. DELICIOUS coffee. The workspaces are a bit industrial/not the comfiest, and the lighting is actually not that good.... so, not the ideal place to spend an entire day working but, great to grab a cup for a bit. read more

I've been to Cartel about 4-5 times for coffee. I think their coffee is good, and I really enjoy their iced tea but I think both are a tad overpriced. It also seems like the people behind the counter are not very friendly. I'm usually not greeted when I come in, and I've even approached the counter and just had the girl stare at me instead of asking me what I wanted to order. Up until this past weekend, I probably would have given Cartel 3 stars. However, I had a really positive experience this past Sunday that warrants adding an extra star. I stopped in for lunch with my dad and fiance after a bike ride. You order at the counter (just like you would for coffee), then they call your order out when it's ready at a window towards the back. I wanted something filling, yet not too heavy, and their turkey sandwich hit the spot! I was a little worried that the ciabatta bread would be too hard, but it was the perfect texture. The havarati and roasted red pepper spread also added just enough extra flavor to keep it from being a plain boring sandwich. The side of fruit it came with had a good variety. Both my dad and fiance were also happy with their sandwiches. I had a bite of my fiancee's ham sandwich, and it was really tasty, especially if you are a fan of spicy mustard. I knew Cartel served beer and wine, but I had never partaken. I opted for a pint of the Cartel Pale Ale (you have to make sure you hydrate after exercise), and I really liked it. It reminded me of a less hoppy version of Sierra Nevada. The best part is it was only $3.50. I also discovered they have happy hour every day (from 4-7 I think) where pints are a $1.50 off. Then from 8pm to close, they do reverse happy hour with discounts on wines by the glass. They had quite a few local beers and local wines, which I really liked. I will definitely be back for a drink! read more

Hipster coffee house with music, sofas, computer-friendly tables, gathering and more private seats to enjoy your coffee or tea with the scrumptious pastries baked on site each day. Love it here! read more

Cartel Roasting Co - Green tea, loose leaf, hot. Nice. - Cafes Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

I've become a bit of a nut over coffee the last year or so. I can't imagine many places being too much better with their coffee. Quality, skill, and selection exists here. I've never been asked about trying different espresso blends before, that was a huge plus. I also loved their drip coffee and they had a few choices here also, including a light roast which is always important for my preferences. They clearly have the skill for foaming an amazing capp or latte. Best I've had to date, no question. They will bust out the latte art each time to underline their confidence in it also. They JUST redid their menu and simplified it greatly. While I'm disappointed to see the blended drinks go because it'll be harder to get friends that aren't so hardcore into coffee to tag along, I'm happy to see a business thrive off of it's core coffe products, especially in this Starbucks age. Their baked goods are decent and deliver solid happiness. I've had scones, cinnamon rolls, and coffee cakes here. All have been pleasantly good and satisfying. The venue is crowded, industrial, and collegiate. Browns dominate the landscape. A few leather couches and a few leather seats spice up the plastic chairs and metal tables. They have outdoor metal seating also that are there to capitalize on a typical Tucson day. A huge dedicated following with a lot of repeat clientele. It's a big study time place with laptops, books, and paperwork strewn about. Thank goodness a place like this exists in Tucson. read more

If Starbucks and Chipotle had a hip baby, that baby would be Cartel. Stopped with a friend while passing through Tucson. I opted for a pour over as per the barista's suggestion. When I got my coffee, I was really happy to find the barista put the extra coffee that didn't fit into my cup in a mason jar for me. (Most shops end up dumping the extra coffee out and that annoys me to no end--if I'm paying $5 for coffee, I want every last drop.) I enjoyed my pour over. If I remember correctly, it was a Guatemala and it had deep chocolate notes. I also appreciated the atmosphere, although it was almost awkwardly quiet even though it was packed. (Oddly, I had the same observation with Cartel in downtown Phoenix last year.) I enjoyed my stop at Cartel and recommend it if you're in Tucson or Phoenix. read more

Contemporary style. Great place to study or work. Superb coffee and delicious pastries! Menu is not for a big meal. But very simple! Free wifi! read more

Cartel Roasting Co - Menu - Cafes Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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I'm a coffee snob and connoisseur having lived in SF, PDX, and around Seattle. While Cartel's location is good this shop has the most expensive drip coffee I have ever encountered. I get it, they are fair trade and give back to the farmer's community blah blah blah. I've been to countless dozens of places that do their own variation of the same. Sorry, that doesn't make you special. This is Tucson, people make and therefore have less money here and the cost to do business is significantly cheaper than in Portland. There most large drip is around $3. You're charging $4.50? 50% more with lower operating costs? That screams capitalist pig. No 3 shot Americano? No decent food? Seriously get a clue. You bring this act to a big town and you'll quickly go away. The coffee is mediocre at best anyway and the competition down the street charges $2.93, tastes better, and has cooler people. Needless to say I'll never return. I will say it wasn't acidic and the person working wasn't stoked at the jacked prices either. read more

I'm no coffee expert, I just know what I like. This place is serving up some pretty awesome basic coffee. I say basic, onlyyyy because all I ordered on all 3 occasions is the house blend. I doooo wish I would have got a bigger sized coffee, but I'll live. I pretty close, so I'll just come back more often. I do wish the gentleman would have given me some more info on how and what to order, since I'm new to fancy coffee. I noticed lots of young college types studying I look forward to returning.. read more

Caleb and Thomas had my chai tea ready before I even finished swiping my card. Oh and the cheese and herb scone. Five stars. Go here. Get fast service. Live a life unlimited. read more

Really great coffee. Typical hipster vibe but the cappuccino was amazing. My husband takes 35 mins to brew the perfect cup of coffee in the am and he loved the coffee here. Worth the extra cost and happy to support during the pandemic. read more

So, in preparation, based on other reviews I read, my partner and I put on our best hipster outfits so that we could blend in. Street shoes, flannel shirt, thick black plastic frame glasses. Check, check, and check. Properly attired we entered. Fit in and pretty low key vibe. Sunday night at 9:45 pm. Pretty much everyone is just studying or working on something on their laptops. Good working environment and good upbeat music too. Good variety. I got an herbal tea and the cowboy cookie. Both delicious. The herbal tea was not just a tea bag in hot water. There's real herbs and fruits and other real things in there. Tasty interesting flavor. I was pleasantly surprised. Would definitely come back here again. Great access to plug-ins for laptops and plenty of space to spread out. read more

Cartel has communication issues. There is a placard with some varied coffees with symbols denoting how the drink is prepared (dependent on size?). When you ask the staff about it, they're either not very knowledgeable or don't know how to communicate. With so many coffee places (especially in the vicinity...Raging Sage, Coffee express, etc) they need to do a better job differentiating their product. Hey, how about if you have signage and support materials that tell your story and knowledgeable, sharing employees who know that story line and verse? The decor is funky combo student union/Chipotle. The baked goods are well done. I'll probably go back in a month or so for a last chance visit. read more

Told that Avenue is Tucson's answer to downtown Phoenix's Lux, I came here to give it a try. The comparison is fair enough, because I can't think of anything else in town that even attempts to create the urban hipster atmosphere that Lux has mastered (enough to make you like it even if hipsters annoy the hell out of you). But the attempt still falls far short in terms of the vibe. The difference in quality of the coffee is even more substantial. My latte was okay. Not superb. As a dual citizen of Tucson and Phoenix, I used to think that Tucson far out-paced Phoenix in this one specific niche, of cute locally-owned coffeehouses. I think the urban boom in downtown Phoenix over the last 5 years has turned the tide at this point, and Avenue versus Lux is a perfect symptom of that trend. But, competition is good, and I'd like to see Tucson step up the competition with more efforts like Avenue. read more

Cartel no doubt has great coffee, though a little on the steeper end in terms of price of coffee in town. They do make a mean latte though. I come here often to do work, but be warned of the crowds during the weekend afternoons of the academic year. The pace definitely slows down in the summer, but i can be difficult to find a place to sit on the weekends otherwise. I've noticed on several occasions that I have shortened my stay due to the really loud music, while other times, it's been peacefully quiet. One of the things that I like the most is that I can go at any time of day and decide if I want a coffee or beer after I get there. They have a happy hour and a few beers on tap if you have earned your pint after an afternoon of hard work. I usually go to this location due to the convenience, but if the downtown location has a beautiful setup with a ton of natural light. The only downside is that you have to park on the street and keep feeding the meters during the day time. read more

Nice location downtown Tucson. Music sometimes is kinda weird so bring your headphones if you are going to do some work. But coffee is good and great folks. read more

Best and most artful cappuccino in town. Tasty, simple, and sweet in-house baked goods that nicely contrast the coffee bitters are also available. The whole bean coffees available for purchase are excellent. The room is dark, cool and full of hipster doofus - a vast sea of young people staring intently into their Apple laptops. Honestly, If you don't have an Apple device you may feel out of place. I pull out my iPhone in an effort to fit in and not make the locals skittish. It makes it easier to observe them in their natural habitat. :) read more

Ambience: Hipster Music: Exactly what you expect. Dress Code: Plaid. Facial Hair: Full Beard. Literally the most pretentious place in Tucson (which I suppose it isn't difficult to be). There are wood tables with weird stools. There are some tables that use smaller tables as benches. What?! Art lines the walls and oh, there's exposed air ducts (¡Que Industrial!) There is a bar. They have Whiskey, Beer, and Wine. The decor is... fine. One might see this room photographed for a pinterest board titled "Decor Loveeee." Only Complaint? Their wi-fi page asks you to buy a drink every two hours. I felt insulted. Looks like I found my new homework spot! read more

I got a latte only because I was told I could get it to go.. And she still didn't put it in a to go cup- which ended up being ok , it wasn't too hot and I drank it fast since I was waiting to pick up someone at the hospital.. I give it 3 stars because i don't like when people don't listen to what you ask them. read more

Cartel Roasting Co - Cafes Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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Super chill vibes, solid dirty chai and great service. That blueberry coffee cake is yummy. read more

Cartel Roasting Co - Blueberry Coffee Cake - Cafes Near Me - Tucson, Arizona