NEW DAY Coffee + Smoothies

NEW DAY Coffee + Smoothies presents itself as a modern hybrid establishment, catering to both coffee aficionados and those seeking healthier beverage alternatives. Located at 643 Fallbrook Blvd in Lincoln, the venue leverages a bright, clean, and contemporary design to create an environment that receives consistent praise for its welcoming nature. The interior is frequently described by patrons as spacious, polished, and filled with natural light, making it a functional space for various purposes, from casual meetings with friends to focused work or study sessions. This versatility is one of its most significant assets in a competitive local market.

The operational hours are extensive, opening early on weekdays at 6:30 AM and running until 7:00 PM, with slightly later starts on weekends. This schedule accommodates early commuters, students, and those looking for a place to unwind in the evening. A notable feature that enhances its appeal for productivity is a reservable private room, offering a dedicated space for groups needing to collaborate without the typical coffee shop distractions. The availability of outdoor seating also provides a welcome option during pleasant weather.

The Beverage and Food Menu: A Detailed Look

As the name implies, the menu is distinctly split between traditional coffee house fare and a substantial list of smoothies. The coffee is locally sourced from The Coffee Roaster, a detail that appeals to customers interested in supporting local businesses. Reviews for the coffee are generally positive, with terms like "delicious" and "smooth" appearing frequently. However, some patrons have found the coffee flavor to be on the milder side, which could be a drawback for those who prefer a more robust and bold espresso profile. The shop offers a standard range of espresso drinks, including lattes, cappuccinos, and mochas, alongside brewed coffee and cold brew.

The other half of its identity is its extensive smoothie shop menu. For customers searching specifically for a juice bar, it's important to note that NEW DAY focuses on blended drinks rather than cold-pressed or centrifugal juices. The menu does not feature fresh juice options. Instead, it offers a wide variety of healthy smoothies that serve a similar purpose. These are not merely sugary concoctions; many are designed with wellness in mind.

• Fruit Smoothies: Options like the "Plunge" (strawberry, banana) and "Great Escape" (pineapple, mango, strawberry, peach) cater to classic tastes.
• Green Smoothies: The "Green Goddess" includes matcha, kale, strawberries, mango, and pineapple, providing a nutrient-dense option for health-conscious individuals.
• Protein Smoothies: For a post-workout or meal-replacement option, the "Velvet Elvis" and "Power Vibe" are packed with milk, peanut butter, banana, whey protein, and other ingredients, making them substantial and calorie-dense.

The food selection supports its role as a cafe suitable for breakfast or a light lunch. The menu includes items like breakfast sandwiches, burritos, pastries, muffins, and scones. Feedback on the food is mixed in one specific area: value. One customer noted their egg, cheese, and sausage sandwich was good but felt the portion was small for its cost. This suggests that while the quality is acceptable, the price-to-portion ratio on certain food items might not meet everyone's expectations. Other items, like the generously portioned breakfast burritos, receive more positive mentions.

Atmosphere and Customer Experience

The ambiance of NEW DAY is a frequently highlighted positive. Patrons consistently describe the staff as friendly, outstanding, sweet, and kind. This high level of customer service, including personal touches like writing positive messages on cups, contributes significantly to a loyal customer base. The establishment is kept impeccably clean and organized, which enhances the serene and relaxed atmosphere.

A unique aspect of the environment is the choice of background music, which is often described as worship or Christian music. For many customers, this adds to the calm and uplifting vibe of the space. However, it's a specific environmental choice that may not appeal to every potential visitor and is a factor to consider for those who are sensitive to their auditory surroundings. The overall feel is a balance between lively and serene, making it a versatile spot that avoids being overly loud or library-quiet.

Weighing the Positives and Negatives

When evaluating NEW DAY Coffee + Smoothies, several key points emerge for potential customers to consider.

What Works Well

• Exceptional Service and Atmosphere: The consensus is that the staff is remarkably friendly and the environment is clean, modern, and welcoming. It is well-suited for both social gatherings and individual work.
• Strong Beverage Menu: The dual offering of quality coffee and a diverse range of healthy smoothies ensures there is something for almost every taste. The use of local coffee roasters is a plus.
• Functional Amenities: With ample seating, a reservable room, and wheelchair accessibility, the physical space is well-designed to meet customer needs.
• Consistent Hours: Being open seven days a week with long hours makes it a reliable and convenient option.

Areas for Consideration

• Limited Food Value: While the food is generally considered good, some items may be perceived as overpriced for their portion size. Some reviews also note that certain food options appear to be prepackaged.
• No Delivery or Curbside Pickup: The business model focuses on the in-person experience, offering only dine-in and takeout. The lack of modern conveniences like delivery or curbside pickup could be a significant drawback for customers seeking more flexibility.
• Niche Music Choice: The background of worship music, while appreciated by many for creating a peaceful ambiance, is a specific taste that will not resonate with everyone.
• No Fresh Juice Options: Customers looking for a traditional juice bar with cold-pressed juice will find that the menu is limited to blended smoothies.

NEW DAY Coffee + Smoothies has successfully carved out a niche in Lincoln by focusing on a high-quality in-store experience. It is an ideal destination for students, remote workers, and anyone seeking a pleasant environment to enjoy a well-made coffee or a thoughtfully constructed smoothie. The strengths lie in its impeccable service, clean and versatile space, and strong core beverage offerings. Potential customers should weigh these significant positives against the considerations of food value, the specific musical environment, and the absence of delivery services to decide if it aligns with their preferences and needs.