Metro Star Coffee Shop
BackLocated on Junction Boulevard in East Elmhurst, Metro Star Coffee Shop presents itself as a neighborhood hub for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. It’s a compact, cozy establishment that aims to serve a mix of American diner classics and global fare, with a notable emphasis on Mexican-inspired dishes. The experience offered is multifaceted, drawing high praise from some patrons while leaving others with significant complaints, painting a picture of a classic local spot with both considerable charm and noticeable flaws.
The Culinary Offerings: A Tale of Two Experiences
The menu at Metro Star is extensive, covering everything from classic American breakfast platters to authentic Mexican tortas. For many, the food is a definitive highlight. Patrons have praised the freshness and preparation of dishes like the California omelet, packed with chicken, swiss cheese, and avocado, and the satisfying sausage, egg, and cheese sandwich, noted for using a proper sausage patty instead of links. The Mexican side of the menu also receives accolades, with one customer describing a torta as exceptionally good and authentic, prompting a desire to return.
However, the culinary experience is not universally positive. Delivery orders, in particular, seem susceptible to inconsistency. One customer reported receiving a latte that tasted like weak iced coffee and a fruit smoothie that wrongly contained milk and had an 'off' taste, despite having had good experiences when dining in person. Another mentioned receiving watery, flavorless oatmeal. These instances suggest a potential gap between the quality of food served in-house and what is delivered to customers at home.
The Ambiance and Service: Friendly Faces and Frustrating Lapses
When the service at Metro Star is on point, it contributes significantly to the establishment's appeal. Several reviews celebrate the "quick and friendly" and "extremely friendly" staff, which enhances the cozy, welcoming atmosphere of the small restaurant. This positive interaction is a key reason many customers become regulars, enjoying the comfortable and familiar environment for a morning meal.
Unfortunately, service consistency is one of the most significant issues facing the coffee shop. For every glowing review of the staff, there is a deeply negative one. One patron detailed repeated visits where their order was forgotten or incorrect, suggesting a systemic issue that may point to a need for better management. Another regular customer was disappointed when the staff closed the register and grill more than ten minutes before the stated closing time, refusing to sell or make anything. This unreliability can be particularly frustrating for loyal customers and tarnishes the otherwise friendly reputation.
A Closer Look at the Menu: Juices, Smoothies, and More
Despite its name, some argue that Metro Star is more of a brunch spot or diner than a dedicated coffee shop. The coffee options are described as good but limited, so those seeking a specialty café experience might be better served elsewhere. However, the beverage menu is broader than just coffee.
The establishment features a dedicated juice bar, a key attraction for health-conscious patrons. It offers a 'Create Your Own Fresh Juice' option with a wide array of ingredients like orange, carrot, apple, pineapple, spinach, kale, beets, and ginger. This makes it a solid destination for those looking for detox juices or a customized green juice. Additionally, the menu includes a variety of fruit smoothies:
- Tropical Island Smoothie
- Strawberry Banana Smoothie
- Mixed Berries Smoothie
- Pina Colada Smoothie
- Chocolate Banana Smoothie
These healthy juice options and breakfast smoothies provide fresh, vibrant alternatives to a traditional breakfast, catering to a growing demand for nutritious choices. While not a standalone smoothie bar, the offerings are a significant part of their appeal.
Pricing: Affordable Staple or Overpriced Convenience?
Value is a point of contention among customers. The business is officially listed with a low price level, and some reviews rave about "unbeatable prices" for great food. A glance at the menu shows items like a two-egg sandwich for under $5 or buttermilk pancakes for around $9, which are competitive for the area.
Conversely, other long-time customers have noted that the shop has become "too pricey." One review specifically mentioned that a regular sandwich on a roll now costs nearly $13, a price they felt was too high. The California Omelette, at over $12, and the Bacon Cheeseburger with fries, also over $12, reflect prices that some may not consider to be in the lowest tier. This discrepancy suggests that while some core items remain affordable, the cost of more complex sandwiches, platters, and customized items may have risen, shifting the perception of value for some regulars.
The Verdict for Potential Customers
Metro Star Coffee Shop is a place of dualities. It can offer a wonderfully authentic and satisfying meal in a cozy, friendly setting. Its menu is broad, with appealing American and Mexican dishes, and its selection of fresh juices and smoothies is a major plus. For many, it’s a beloved local go-to for a hearty breakfast or lunch.
However, potential customers should be aware of the reported inconsistencies. There is a tangible risk of experiencing slow or incorrect service, especially during busy periods or with delivery orders. The early closing and lack of coffee refills for dine-in customers are minor but notable drawbacks. The pricing, while generally reasonable, may feel steep for certain items. Ultimately, Metro Star Coffee Shop is a worthwhile visit for those seeking flavorful, diner-style food with a local feel, provided they approach it with an understanding that the experience can be unpredictable. It shines with its diverse food and beverage menu but would benefit from greater consistency in service and quality control across all its platforms.
