This may be the first time I do this, but for once, I feel it's necessary to review the company as a whole vs. the actual location. This particular Hägen (one of many), is tucked cozily in a nook just off the ever-buzzing Regent Street. You would think it's a perfect place to grab an espresso and chill for a bit at one of their many outdoor tables, although the menu offers only the basic espresso-based and filter coffees like V60's. So, no Spanish lattes and sugary syrups here, I'm afraid.
After years of coming here, however, I've been privy to way too much mistreatment that goes on towards the staff, to the point where I've begun to notice the quality of the space itself go down exponentially, even after they finally fixed the AC, the moldy floors, and the horrendous insect problem they had going on inside.
Having befriended many of the staff over the years, it actually hurts to see their once-chipper attitude turn to sunken eyes and surly demeanor. As a result, most of the old regulars have stopped coming, and the majority of the clientele are tired tourists who are just looking for a place to rest their feet and refuel their energy stores with good coffee and overpriced snacks.
The one plus is that they tend to close a bit later than most other independent coffee shops. 6PM Sunday through Thursday, and at 6:30 on Fridays and Saturdays. read more
