NEW DAY Coffee + Smoothies

NEW DAY Coffee + Smoothies presents itself as a hybrid establishment, aiming to capture the loyalty of both dedicated coffee drinkers and health-conscious smoothie enthusiasts. Located at 7501 S 15th St in Lincoln, Nebraska, this modern cafe has quickly established itself as a local fixture. With its bright, clean, and spacious interior, ample parking, and the convenience of a drive-thru, it caters to a wide range of customers, from those looking to linger over a laptop to commuters grabbing a quick beverage. The overall customer sentiment is positive, though not without specific and noteworthy criticisms that potential patrons should consider.

The Atmosphere and Service

A consistent thread through customer feedback is the welcoming and pleasant environment. The staff is frequently described as friendly, quick, and helpful, contributing to a positive experience from the moment one walks in or pulls up to the drive-thru. The interior design is modern and tidy, with large windows that create a bright and airy feel, making it an inviting space for work or social gatherings. This commitment to a clean and appealing ambiance is a significant strength, setting a comfortable stage for the food and drinks they offer. The service is often highlighted as a key reason for return visits, with employees noted for their efficiency and warm demeanor.

The Smoothie Selection: A Clear Strength

Where NEW DAY truly excels is in its smoothie offerings. The establishment positions itself as more than just a coffee shop, and its extensive menu of healthy smoothies validates this claim. Customer favorites like the “Great Escape” and “Breakaway” are praised for their excellent taste and quality. Patrons appreciate that the smoothies are made with care, using real fruit and thoughtful combinations. The menu features a wide variety of fruit smoothies, from berry-centric blends like the "Plunge" to tropical concoctions and even protein-packed options like the "Velvet Elvis" for a more substantial meal replacement. They also offer green smoothies like the "Green Goddess," which includes matcha and kale, catering to those seeking a nutrient-dense option. While the careful preparation may result in a slightly longer wait time, customers generally feel the superior quality is worth it. For anyone specifically seeking a top-tier fresh juice bar experience, the smoothie side of the menu is unlikely to disappoint.

The Coffee Conundrum

The coffee at NEW DAY receives more mixed feedback. On one hand, many customers enjoy the coffee, praising cappuccinos and iced lattes as "great" and "amazing." The shop proudly serves locally roasted coffee, which is a significant plus for those who value supporting local businesses. However, a recurring and significant issue is order accuracy, particularly with customized coffee drinks ordered through the drive-thru. One long-term customer noted repeated instances of receiving the wrong order, such as a basic vanilla cold brew instead of a more complex seasonal drink. This inconsistency became frustrating enough to cause them to switch to a competitor for their coffee needs. This suggests a potential weakness in the drive-thru's communication system or in the baristas' execution of more complicated orders. While the base coffee quality is appreciated, those with specific or intricate coffee preferences might be better served by ordering inside to ensure their drink is made correctly.

An Assessment of the Food Menu

The food menu at NEW DAY is designed to complement its beverages, offering a selection of breakfast and lunch items, baked goods, and snacks. It includes breakfast burritos, sandwiches, overnight oats, and scones. Feedback on the food is varied. The grilled cheese sandwich is noted as a "hit," and options like breakfast burritos and pastries are generally well-regarded. However, the selection of warm food is somewhat limited, a point of disappointment for some patrons. In one particularly specific piece of feedback, a customer found the cold roast beef sandwich to have an unusual smell, likened to a freshly bathed dog, an observation their companions shared. While this appears to be an isolated incident, it highlights a potential for inconsistency in the food offerings. The menu provides convenient options, but it may not satisfy those looking for a robust or consistently flawless dining experience.

Highlights and Lowlights for the Potential Customer

To provide a clear picture, it's helpful to summarize the establishment's primary strengths and weaknesses.

What Works Well

• Excellent Smoothies: The quality, variety, and taste of the smoothies are consistently praised. It stands out as a premier destination for those seeking organic juice and smoothie options.
• Friendly and Efficient Staff: The customer service is a major asset, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
• Clean and Modern Environment: The physical space is bright, clean, and comfortable for both quick visits and longer stays.
• Support for Local Roasters: The use of locally sourced coffee beans is a commendable feature.

Areas for Improvement

• Coffee Order Accuracy: There is a notable risk of receiving an incorrect coffee order, especially at the drive-thru. Customers with specific tastes should exercise caution.
• Limited Hot Food: The menu lacks an extensive selection of warm food items, which may disappoint those looking for a heartier meal.
• Inconsistent Food Quality: While many food items are enjoyed, there are reports of occasional misses that detract from the overall experience.

NEW DAY Coffee + Smoothies is a strong contender in the local cafe scene, particularly for its outstanding smoothie selection. It is an ideal spot for anyone prioritizing a high-quality, blended fruit beverage in a clean and friendly setting. The atmosphere is conducive to both productivity and relaxation. However, for discerning coffee drinkers with specific orders, the potential for error at the drive-thru is a significant drawback. While the food menu offers serviceable accompaniments, it doesn't quite reach the same level of excellence as the smoothies. It is a recommended visit, but patrons should align their expectations with the establishment's proven strengths.