Coffee Hound Uptown Normal
| Address: | 205 W North St, Normal, IL 61761, USA |
| Phone: | +1 309-454-7575 |
| Site: | coffeehound.net |
| Rating: | 4.6 |
| Working: | 6:30AM–6PM 6:30AM–6PM 6:30AM–6PM 6:30AM–6PM 6:30AM–6PM 6:30AM–6PM 8AM–5PM |
Location
Photos 100
Reviews 20
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John Smith
When the right barista is working, Coffee Hound has some of the worlds best espresso--better even than Intelligentsia in Chicago. They do everything right; they roast their own coffee, grind it fresh for each shot, and keep their beautiful high-end equipment clean. Unfortunately, they arent consistent at all. Some of their baristas cant properly pull a double espresso. It sucked to first find CH and get the best shot of my life, only to return and get a watery, over-extracted shot with no crema. Ive come here many times, and maybe 30% of the time do I get that kind of awesome shot. Their drip coffee is brewed weakly, probably to save money. The downtown Bloomington seems to be a little more consistent. Listen up Coffee Hound: latte art is pointless without a consistently good espresso base.
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Isotope Blue
Medium-size coffee shop from a small local chain. About a dozen tables (mostly small) plus one couch and a counter with 5 diner style metal stools. A couple of outlets towards the front. Free wi-fi with no password. Eclectic mix of music on, not too loud. But acoustics in the place are bad, so noisy even when half full (as it was early on a summer Sunday during Normal 150 celebration / art fair.) Walls and ceiling are summery pastels, and theres an authentic duct above. Local art on the walls. Overall a modern vibe, but not too prepackaged. Chai is from a powder - I didnt try it. Good selection of loose leaf teas, but the matcha I got was poorly done. Small selection of uninspiring pastries.
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Loren Wright
The barista knows coffee. I asked questions about their roasts available for a pour over. She said they had no pour over but suggested a similar brew method (Clever brew). It was excellent (a washed Ethiopian coffee). Prices are to be expected for artisan coffee. Atmosphere is typical of these types of coffee shops. Roasting is done on site in a small batch drum roaster with computer monitoring. The only downside I noticed from my first visit was the layout. It was not conducive to the morning rush. Located in an old downtown Bloomington building, its typical narrow yet deep layout becomes crowded quickly.
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Kevin McKenzie !
So, Coffee Hound is definitely the fanciest coffee in Normal. I just have a hard time loving it. Its hard to hang out here, unlike the Coffeehouse down the street. I dont know what it is - the staff were great, and I dont think Im offending anyone by saying theyre the best baristas in Normal. All the same, this is not my favorite coffee shop in Normal. Is it the price? The music selection? I cant say. Just never loved this spot. Legitimately though, if you really want a silly floret drawn on your latte, go here. It will taste amazing, too, and probably be the best crafted espresso youve had anywhere, ever.
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David Giovagnoli
My favorite coffee place close to Illinois State. It does get a little loud, but a good pair of headphones solves that issue. Sometimes finding a plug is an issue, too, but people are generally friendly enough to share. All of the baristas Ive interacted with have been great and the coffee is very good. Ive never personally tried any of the baked goods, but Ive seen them eaten in front of me and have heard good things.
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Michael King
Amazing little place. The owners and operators are really avid about providing Bloomington/Normal with the highest quality coffee possible. The baristas are all so extremely talented and Im always being impressed when I go here. Can get kind of loud when crowded with people, but is still a great stress free place to sit down and read for awhile while sipping amazing coffee. 10/10 would recommend.
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Tyler Krivich
The Coffee Hound always delivers on their coffee. When I need a boost to study for an exam, the Coffee Hound is my go-to place. With a variety of espresso drinks, I usually find myself trying a new drink every time! I always recommended the Coffee Hound to my friends and family. Plus they have an excellent choice of bakery items that make the perfect quick breakfast.
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anna gizzi
Only four stars because this place can get crowded and the coffee is a bit expensive. Even a simple brew coffee is over $2.00 for a small. Not to say they dont have amazing coffee and espresso, because they do. Just sometimes Im not willing to pay the price. When the baristas make your drink, you can tell they take pride in their creations. You wont be disappointed.
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Mandy Pastor
I ordered the Tiger Chia and the lady behind me ordered a latte. Her drink came up first and the server mumbled what was made first. I thought it was my tiger Chia, but it was actually her latte. When he found out I accidentally grabbed hers, he was very rude and gave me a mean look. The lady was very nice about it. Dont hire snobby servers. I will not be back.
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Mark Beadle
Great coffee and atmosphere. The location itself is a bit smaller than the downtown Bloomington location but it is a great local coffee shop. They also offer some teas and pastries as well as all the usual coffee offerings. Local artists are also featured on the walls, which adds to the atmosphere and local feel.
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Kristin Richey
The first time I walked into Coffee Hound I was a bit overwhelmed. It was a Saturday morning and it was packed, but I soon learned why. The coffee is great. The service is quick and friendly, and the atmosphere is laid back and enjoyable. Ive made it my regular go-to for when I need a pick-me-up.
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Andrew Karmy
Third wave atmosphere with good coffee. They offer pour-over and cold brew, as well as the usual suspects. As a visitor from Seattle youll instantly feel at home (think Victrola, no Vita though) in its light an warm atmosphere. The service was excellent.
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Bri Mesenbring
They have everything from "I need a little pep me up" to "I dont want to sleep for a couple days". Great flavor. Shot of espresso with a little steamed milk is perfect with a shot of flavor! Bit expensive but it is worth it occasionally. Great!
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Rishi Sheth
Coffee hound is awesome. The staff is wonderful and knowledgeable about coffee and coffee accessories. In addition to got and cold drinks there they sell pastries and whole bean coffee, which they will grind for you. Also, Niko is the man.
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Michaela McGinn
Great spot- lovely staff, good coffee. Niko is the man. If you have allergies and still fear the paleo and gluten free signs are more fad than factual- rest easy! I get a pastry 2-3 times a week and have never been sick. Hallelujah
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Ariel Goldfarb
One of the best decaf caps I have ever had...straight outta Normal, IL. Holds its own to anything Ive had in Portland, Chicago or SF. That was my second in 3 hours, and hoping to sneak one more in before heading outta here...
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David Schertz
Coffee Hound always has great coffee. This location is really close to campus, so it is usually pretty full, but other than that the laid-back atmosphere is a great place to get some work done if you can leave the office.
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A Private User
One of my favorite coffee shops. Great brew — both drip coffee and espresso; I cant get enough of their espresso. Buy 10 drinks get one free. What else do you need in a little college town?
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Alex Ewers
Warm, relaxing and affordable, Coffee Hound is the place to go for coffee in Uptown Normal. Definitely check it out regardless of whether youre looking to chill or get work done.
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Ian Bruckner
Love the coffee and day old treats. I only wish the whole bean bagged coffee was a little cheaper, then Id be buying it instead of whatever the grocery store carries.
