I stopped at KupAJoe on my way home from a work trip because I was looking for a breakfast spot with gluten-free options. I had just landed at Midway on a Friday and was driving south, so it seemed like the perfect place to grab a quick breakfast before getting home.
When I walked in, I told the hostess it was just me. She asked where I’d like to sit, and I said the breakfast bar was fine. What happened next was frustrating. I sat there for about 30 minutes, and during that time three different servers and what I believe was the manager or owner all talked to me about watching my daughter play softball on GameChanger. They were friendly and acknowledged I was there, but not one of them asked if I wanted a cup of coffee, something to drink, or if I was ready to order food. Meanwhile, they continued serving the other guests, including the man sitting next to me at the counter.
After waiting that long, I used the restroom and then asked the hostess if I could move to a table instead. As soon as I sat down, a server came over immediately, took my drink order, and asked if I was ready to order. It made no sense that I had to switch from the breakfast bar to a table just to receive service.
The food itself came out very quickly. The portions were generous, especially the eggs, my coffee was refilled regularly, and I appreciated that they offered gluten-free toast, although it was just okay. I also wish there had been an option for real maple syrup instead of the standard syrup—I would have gladly paid extra for it.
Overall, the food was good, but the service at the breakfast bar really overshadowed the experience. It’s hard to understand how multiple employees could stop to chat with me but never once ask if I wanted coffee or food.