LightBulb Café: A Disappointing and Discriminatory Experience
I’ve never been one to leave negative reviews, but the experience my friends and I had at LightBulb Café was so troubling that I felt it was important to share. We visited this café as college students, looking for a quiet place to study—something many students do in cafés, expecting a peaceful and welcoming environment. Unfortunately, what we encountered at LightBulb Café was not just poor customer service but an experience that felt deeply discriminatory and hurtful.
Initially, everything seemed fine. We found a table, connected to the Wi-Fi, and began working on our homework, planning to stay for a while. As a small business that serves the local community, we assumed this café would be an ideal spot. However, after some time, we were approached by a worker who treated us with an inappropriate and unprofessional attitude. From the moment this person spoke to us, it felt as if we were doing something wrong simply by being there. The tone was rude and accusatory, and instead of being approached with any kind of understanding, we were made to feel as though we had committed some kind of offense by sitting down without ordering.
We understood that small businesses rely on customers ordering food or drinks, but there was no warning, no polite request to order something. Instead, we were told, quite harshly, that we needed to leave immediately and were even asked never to come back again. When we questioned why there wasn’t any signage or prior notice explaining this policy, the worker insisted that signs were posted. Yet, after thoroughly checking, we saw no such signs that were clear or visible to us or other customers. This lack of communication about their policies only added to the confusion and frustration.
What hurt the most was the way we were treated. As non-Arab customers, it felt like we were being singled out based on our ethnicity, treated as if we didn’t belong simply because we were not of the same background as the owners or most of the staff. We were treated with a level of disdain and rudeness that no customer should ever experience. The worker’s attitude was completely unprofessional, and instead of engaging us with respect, they made us feel like outsiders in a place that is supposed to represent and serve the local community.
To add to the hurtful experience, we are Muslim women who wear hijabs, and it was especially disheartening to be approached in such a disrespectful manner by someone within our own religious community. One would expect more hospitality and understanding, particularly in a café that serves a largely Muslim demographic. However, the way we were treated left us feeling dishonored and discriminated against, as if our presence in the café was not welcome.
After sharing this experience with a close friend, I was shocked to learn that this wasn’t an isolated incident. My friend informed me that multiple people from our community have also experienced similar treatment at LightBulb Café. Some have even been shamed and told to leave for reasons just as trivial as ours. Others, aware of the café's discriminatory practices, have chosen not to visit the café at all because they’ve heard about the unwelcoming environment and poor customer service. It seems that this café, which is supposed to represent the local community and foster a sense of belonging, is doing the exact opposite. It’s creating an atmosphere where people feel excluded and unwelcome.
LightBulb Café needs to seriously rethink its customer service practices and the way it treats people who don’t share the same ethnicity as the owners or staff. A community café should welcome everyone, not shame and exclude them. I hope the management takes this feedback to heart and works to create a more inclusive environment because right now, they are doing a disservice to the very community they claim to serve. For anyone considering going to Li
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
amanda montgomery
I like this spot but after waiting 20 min by the counter for my online pickup and moldy bread, I will probably never come back. Every time i do an online pickup, which is supposed to be an in and out process for people who are busy and cannot wait long, i am completely ignored and its like i dont even exist. You really have to take initiative and ask if your order is ready which is fine, but seems like the biggest burden to the people working there like it isnt part of their job. I wouldnt have wrote this review initially, until i got back home and saw mold on my sandwich. I used to look past the terrible service because their coffee is good, but after today i cannot handle how poorly run and miserable this place seems. Go here if you like to make the baristas life a living hell by asking where your online order is (they will literally let you sit there for 20 min without asking why.. like yeah let me hangout here for 20 min w no drink thats exactly what i wanted to do today) or if you want to get Foodborne illness:)
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 1
Service: 1
TheGmcnicol
Very friendly staff. The lavender Latte was well-balanced and not overpowering, and the cheese Danish was fresh and delicious.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Provvidenza Sciortino
Came here today cause i heard they had pistachio latte...was happy to hear by the nice barista that they put 3 shots of espresso in there drinks. ☕ Delicious coffee, nice service. ?
Mily Vj
This place is awesome customer service atmosphere and food. Everything, the only thing that gets me sad is that there is no more light bulbs coffee places. Just this one I ll like it to be near my house and near my job and near my school. Love it
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Raquel Torres
I live near by and when I want to treat myself after my Pilates class, I come here and order the Egg & Cheese Bagel (comes with arugula, red onion, and tomato). It’s kinda pricey $12, but otherwise delicious.
Ordered online today bc I was in a rush. Got to store and it was empty, employee asked what my order is. I show receipt. Employee makes two drinks but fails to adjust for the almond milk and added shots. Was unable to get what I ordered bc ‘their system doesn’t show modifications’ to online orders and I had to get to work. I call the listed number for order help, it rings a non connected phone number. Not good
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Ricky Marks
Amazing place! Vibes/aesthetics are immaculate, plenty of cute and comfortable places to sit for parties both large and small, giant food and drink menu with many wonderful and delicious options. Also has AC and located in a cute plaza with a fountain in in the back! Immediately signed up for the rewards because I am definitely returning!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Iced Latte
Craig Nunnally
Yesterday I decided to give this place a try. I had made food deliveries from the establishment in the past and wants to check it out for myself.
Upon walking in, it gives a very enviting livingroom vibe. I found curb appeal impression to be the highlite of my experience.
Prior to ordering, I needed to use the restroom (Old Man Bladder) and found it to be unclean. I mean really unclean, especially the toilet. Yuck. After recovering from my restroom experience, I decided to forge forward into a possitive and relaxing experience.
I was a bit shocked to see that a basic sandwich without any side or drink cost nearly $15.00. I ordered a Panini, a Beagle with Cream Cheese and a coffee drink and water for me (Gotta offset the cost somewhere.) My bill was just under $30. After recovering from the bathroom and the high cost, I paid by credit card selecting the "No Tip" (More offsetting) and because they were not providing table service and were not especially warm and friendly. As I tapped my card, the total went up to over $35. It appears that there CC processing machine was offended with my "No Tip" selection and charges me $5.18 for a tip. I was irritated but chose to let it go and save the hassle of arguing with the staff that I did not tip them. The Food was of quality (Good Bread) but poorly constructed with an uneven dist ributin of ingredients (Cheese on one half only was the main problem.) Attention to detail was clearly not a priortiy for the kitchen staff.
Overall, I have to say that Light Bulb gave it there absolute best but fell far short of bient good enough for an memorable and overpriced dining experience. I frequently enjoy a sit down, table service, 3 course lunch for $11.00 at my favorite chinese dine-in resteraunt. Now those lovely girls do earn there tips.
Try using the time that the behind the counter girl(s) are not using to enhance their customers experience to check the bathrooms. Yuck.
Also, ever thought about daily specials that could make it more reasonably priced. $7.50 for a Cream Cheese Begal in a bag. Get Serious.
In conclusion, I have read other less than favorable reviews and notice that the establishment's response take a more defensive view unstead of accepting direct criticism as an opportunity to focus on improvement and appreciation for the time people spend to write their reviews.
I loved the turkey pesto panini! The turkish hazelnut coffee tastes a little bit like fruit loops leftover milk, maybe it takes getting used to, I still drank the whole thing. The atmosphere is great, I was able to go on focus mode (with noise cancelling earbuds). Clean but could be cleaner, the tables weren't wiped after customers.
Parking: Parking is 1 hour only, right in front of shop.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Turkey Pesto
Mr. Johnson
Great coffee shop. Friends have been telling me about it and how they love it. The first impression was great. The two ladies were very nice and place is so clean. Decor is great and very comfortableplace to relax. Only complaint, and I won't dink their stars for is the acoustics are horrible. Most people don't care about this, but a person with hearing disabilities, it's bad. But I will return.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Chris Barr
And I work for a living paying $12.50 for a mediocre wrap, seven dollars for a smoothie that I could’ve gone to sonic for a better food and a smoothie. This was like my second time here probably my last two paying almost $20 for two items for one person that’s highway robbery. Also, I think I got food poisoning from this place because let’s just say the toilet and I were best friends.
Maryana kala
This place is a hidden gem! the coffee here is great! customer service is amazing and overall the atmosphere is great perfect to go and hangout or work i've been here mutilple times and never been disappointed! I usually ever wanna leave reviews but this spot really stood out to me. My favorite latte here is definitely the Turkish hazelnut one definitely recommend it!
I recently worked in this coffee shop and the owner came and he gave us Coffee, it was the most delicious coffee ever I drank, I look forward to going and drinking coffee there again
LightBulb Café: A Disappointing and Discriminatory Experience
I’ve never been one to leave negative reviews, but the experience my friends and I had at LightBulb Café was so troubling that I felt it was important to share. We visited this café as college students, looking for a quiet place to study—something many students do in cafés, expecting a peaceful and welcoming environment. Unfortunately, what we encountered at LightBulb Café was not just poor customer service but an experience that felt deeply discriminatory and hurtful.
Initially, everything seemed fine. We found a table, connected to the Wi-Fi, and began working on our homework, planning to stay for a while. As a small business that serves the local community, we assumed this café would be an ideal spot. However, after some time, we were approached by a worker who treated us with an inappropriate and unprofessional attitude. From the moment this person spoke to us, it felt as if we were doing something wrong simply by being there. The tone was rude and accusatory, and instead of being approached with any kind of understanding, we were made to feel as though we had committed some kind of offense by sitting down without ordering.
We understood that small businesses rely on customers ordering food or drinks, but there was no warning, no polite request to order something. Instead, we were told, quite harshly, that we needed to leave immediately and were even asked never to come back again. When we questioned why there wasn’t any signage or prior notice explaining this policy, the worker insisted that signs were posted. Yet, after thoroughly checking, we saw no such signs that were clear or visible to us or other customers. This lack of communication about their policies only added to the confusion and frustration.
What hurt the most was the way we were treated. As non-Arab customers, it felt like we were being singled out based on our ethnicity, treated as if we didn’t belong simply because we were not of the same background as the owners or most of the staff. We were treated with a level of disdain and rudeness that no customer should ever experience. The worker’s attitude was completely unprofessional, and instead of engaging us with respect, they made us feel like outsiders in a place that is supposed to represent and serve the local community.
To add to the hurtful experience, we are Muslim women who wear hijabs, and it was especially disheartening to be approached in such a disrespectful manner by someone within our own religious community. One would expect more hospitality and understanding, particularly in a café that serves a largely Muslim demographic. However, the way we were treated left us feeling dishonored and discriminated against, as if our presence in the café was not welcome.
After sharing this experience with a close friend, I was shocked to learn that this wasn’t an isolated incident. My friend informed me that multiple people from our community have also experienced similar treatment at LightBulb Café. Some have even been shamed and told to leave for reasons just as trivial as ours. Others, aware of the café's discriminatory practices, have chosen not to visit the café at all because they’ve heard about the unwelcoming environment and poor customer service. It seems that this café, which is supposed to represent the local community and foster a sense of belonging, is doing the exact opposite. It’s creating an atmosphere where people feel excluded and unwelcome.
LightBulb Café needs to seriously rethink its customer service practices and the way it treats people who don’t share the same ethnicity as the owners or staff. A community café should welcome everyone, not shame and exclude them. I hope the management takes this feedback to heart and works to create a more inclusive environment because right now, they are doing a disservice to the very community they claim to serve. For anyone considering going to Li
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
I like this spot but after waiting 20 min by the counter for my online pickup and moldy bread, I will probably never come back. Every time i do an online pickup, which is supposed to be an in and out process for people who are busy and cannot wait long, i am completely ignored and its like i dont even exist. You really have to take initiative and ask if your order is ready which is fine, but seems like the biggest burden to the people working there like it isnt part of their job. I wouldnt have wrote this review initially, until i got back home and saw mold on my sandwich. I used to look past the terrible service because their coffee is good, but after today i cannot handle how poorly run and miserable this place seems. Go here if you like to make the baristas life a living hell by asking where your online order is (they will literally let you sit there for 20 min without asking why.. like yeah let me hangout here for 20 min w no drink thats exactly what i wanted to do today) or if you want to get Foodborne illness:)
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 1
Service: 1
Very friendly staff. The lavender Latte was well-balanced and not overpowering, and the cheese Danish was fresh and delicious.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Came here today cause i heard they had pistachio latte...was happy to hear by the nice barista that they put 3 shots of espresso in there drinks. ☕ Delicious coffee, nice service. ?
This place is awesome customer service atmosphere and food. Everything, the only thing that gets me sad is that there is no more light bulbs coffee places. Just this one I ll like it to be near my house and near my job and near my school. Love it
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I live near by and when I want to treat myself after my Pilates class, I come here and order the Egg & Cheese Bagel (comes with arugula, red onion, and tomato). It’s kinda pricey $12, but otherwise delicious.
Vegetarian options: Eggs, cheese, chia pudding, pastries
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Sandwich
Delicious pistachio croissant, and the Turkish hazelnut latte is great! Friendly service, really nice place and vibes ?
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Iced Latte, Pistachio Croissant, Pastries
Ordered online today bc I was in a rush. Got to store and it was empty, employee asked what my order is. I show receipt. Employee makes two drinks but fails to adjust for the almond milk and added shots. Was unable to get what I ordered bc ‘their system doesn’t show modifications’ to online orders and I had to get to work. I call the listed number for order help, it rings a non connected phone number. Not good
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Amazing place! Vibes/aesthetics are immaculate, plenty of cute and comfortable places to sit for parties both large and small, giant food and drink menu with many wonderful and delicious options. Also has AC and located in a cute plaza with a fountain in in the back! Immediately signed up for the rewards because I am definitely returning!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Iced Latte
Yesterday I decided to give this place a try. I had made food deliveries from the establishment in the past and wants to check it out for myself.
Upon walking in, it gives a very enviting livingroom vibe. I found curb appeal impression to be the highlite of my experience.
Prior to ordering, I needed to use the restroom (Old Man Bladder) and found it to be unclean. I mean really unclean, especially the toilet. Yuck. After recovering from my restroom experience, I decided to forge forward into a possitive and relaxing experience.
I was a bit shocked to see that a basic sandwich without any side or drink cost nearly $15.00. I ordered a Panini, a Beagle with Cream Cheese and a coffee drink and water for me (Gotta offset the cost somewhere.) My bill was just under $30. After recovering from the bathroom and the high cost, I paid by credit card selecting the "No Tip" (More offsetting) and because they were not providing table service and were not especially warm and friendly. As I tapped my card, the total went up to over $35. It appears that there CC processing machine was offended with my "No Tip" selection and charges me $5.18 for a tip. I was irritated but chose to let it go and save the hassle of arguing with the staff that I did not tip them. The Food was of quality (Good Bread) but poorly constructed with an uneven dist ributin of ingredients (Cheese on one half only was the main problem.) Attention to detail was clearly not a priortiy for the kitchen staff.
Overall, I have to say that Light Bulb gave it there absolute best but fell far short of bient good enough for an memorable and overpriced dining experience. I frequently enjoy a sit down, table service, 3 course lunch for $11.00 at my favorite chinese dine-in resteraunt. Now those lovely girls do earn there tips.
Try using the time that the behind the counter girl(s) are not using to enhance their customers experience to check the bathrooms. Yuck.
Also, ever thought about daily specials that could make it more reasonably priced. $7.50 for a Cream Cheese Begal in a bag. Get
Serious.
In conclusion, I have read other less than favorable reviews and notice that the establishment's response take a more defensive view unstead of accepting direct criticism as an opportunity to focus on improvement and appreciation for the time people spend to write their reviews.
Service: 1
Restaurantji Recommends
I loved the turkey pesto panini! The turkish hazelnut coffee tastes a little bit like fruit loops leftover milk, maybe it takes getting used to, I still drank the whole thing. The atmosphere is great, I was able to go on focus mode (with noise cancelling earbuds). Clean but could be cleaner, the tables weren't wiped after customers.
Parking: Parking is 1 hour only, right in front of shop.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Turkey Pesto
Great coffee shop. Friends have been telling me about it and how they love it. The first impression was great. The two ladies were very nice and place is so clean. Decor is great and very comfortableplace to relax. Only complaint, and I won't dink their stars for is the acoustics are horrible. Most people don't care about this, but a person with hearing disabilities, it's bad. But I will return.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
And I work for a living paying $12.50 for a mediocre wrap, seven dollars for a smoothie that I could’ve gone to sonic for a better food and a smoothie. This was like my second time here probably my last two paying almost $20 for two items for one person that’s highway robbery. Also, I think I got food poisoning from this place because let’s just say the toilet and I were best friends.
This place is a hidden gem! the coffee here is great! customer service is amazing and overall the atmosphere is great perfect to go and hangout or work i've been here mutilple times and never been disappointed! I usually ever wanna leave reviews but this spot really stood out to me. My favorite latte here is definitely the Turkish hazelnut one definitely recommend it!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Turkey Pesto Panini, Sandwich, Pastries
I recently worked in this coffee shop and the owner came and he gave us Coffee, it was the most delicious coffee ever I drank, I look forward to going and drinking coffee there again
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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