NYC Coffee Review #2: Loyalty Programs

NYC Coffee Review #2: Loyalty Programs

Sep 25

Written By Maddie

…and we’re back! Here’s the second round of our Coffee Review series— NYC edition. The coffee shops I’m reviewing this time are small chains with popular loyalty programs. That being said, I’m going to integrate a loyalty program rating with this edition to help show the winners. These cafés are some of the standouts I’ve visited with roommates, friends, dates, and solo! All unique, all worth a try.

#1: Le Pain Quotidien — https://www.lepainquotidien.com/us/en/

With 30 locations on Manhattan alone, Le Pain Quotidien is a common sight on the streets of NYC (bonus point for the Central Park location). Though it may seem excessive, there are many locations for a reason. With a standard app-based loyalty program like many other chains in the city, Le Pain still manages to be unique in the quality of their menu. Though the range of prices might scare some away (some sandwiches as expensive as $12!), the quality is undeniably there. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and a snack can all be covered by Le Pain’s extensive menu. That being said, we’re here for the coffee. In my experience, Le Pain’s iced lattes are great (better quality at the same price as Starbucks). Their alternative milk option only consists of oat milk, which is great for us oat-milk lovers, but unfortunate for those looking for a soy or almond milk. The espresso is a solid 8/10; no complaints here, but no compliments either. Service here is standard, not greatly knowledgable, but good at their jobs.

Now let’s talk loyalty programs: This one is okay, but I’ve seen better. Le Pain Quotidien lists their perks as “Skip the line when you order for pick up or delivery. Customize your special coffee order. Bank 1 point every time you spend $1. Earn loyalty rewards like $6 for every 75 points. Invite friends to download the app and score a $3 reward when they do. Track allergies & nutritional preferences. Celebrate your birthday with us for a sweet treat.” All in all to say: you spend $75, you can get a $6 reward (which is not a lot for an elevated price menu like this one).

Taste: 4/5 Service: 4.5/5 Venue: 5/5 Loyalty Program: 3/5

Overall Rating: 4.2/5

#2: Matto Espresso — https://www.matto.com

Matto Espresso is one of my favorite discoveries when it comes to saving money. One of my classmates offhandedly mentioned “this amazing $2 coffee deal” one day after our Finite Math class. As one can imagine, I immediately started planning my weekend coffee run(s). $2 is right. Well, $2.50 if you don’t order ahead, but still. $2! A college kid’s dream. Matto has become a must stop on my weekly Upper West Side walks. In addition to $2 lattes, everything on the menu is priced at a friendly $2! That means $4 for a croissant and latte to adorn your Saturday morning routine. Matto’s loyalty program is relatively simple, working similar to that of Starbucks or Dunkin. All you have to do is get the app, order ahead, and reload your card (if you feel so inclined). Matto’s espresso quality is GREAT for the price. The fruit and caramel notes remind me of Shakespeare&Co. (if you haven’t read part 1 of the coffee review series, head over there right after this!) The pastries and breakfast sandwich options are small and seem to rotate a bit by week, but they are of surprisingly good quality for the price. Service here has been very run-of-the-mill, not coffee experts, but definitely good at their jobs. Matto currently has 17 locations open, with 7 more “coming soon”. My only critique lies in their locations: where is the Hell’s Kitchen/Midtown West representation?

As per Matto Espresso’s website, their loyalty program advertises, “Think: top-quality espresso, cappuccinos and lattes. Think: buttery, fresh-baked pastries. Think: sandwiches, snacks and juices, served from shiny, European-style espresso bars. And then think of two single-dollar bills.”

Taste: 4/5 Service: 4.5/5 Venue: 4/5 Loyalty Program: 5/5

Overall Rating: 4.4/5

#3: Pret A Manger — https://www.pret.com/en-US

Pret A Manger has arguably the most popular coffee loyalty program in NYC. With 44 locations in Manhattan alone, Pret pretty much dominates the loyalty program sphere. Their classic monthly plan features up to 5 hot/iced coffees or teas daily for only $19.99 a month! That’s quite literally 150 coffees for twenty bucks. Upgrades are available for $29.99 monthly, allowing the customer their choice of espresso based drinks, chais, cold brew and an additional add-on (syrup flavors). In addition to their rockstar loyalty program, Pret’s aesthetically pleasing packaging and adorable signs are an adorable addition to NYC streets.

As for the coffee and food, Pret’s got it down. With a breakfast/lunch selection rival only to Le Pain Quotidien, Pret has options for everyone at college-friendly prices. Espresso here is pretty good— nothing to write home about but definitely good enough to get you through the day.

Pret A Manger’s website states, “Hot or iced drinks, any size, any milk, plus 1 extra add-on: Up to 5 a day, minimum 30 mins between redemptions; Cancel or pause anytime: Manage your subscription whenever you’d like. You’re in control; Scan your QR to redeem: Save your QR code to your digital wallet & scan it at the register.” Not too shabby!

Taste: 4.5/5 Service: 4.5/5 Venue: 4.5/5 Loyalty Program: 5/5

Overall Rating: 4.7/5

That’s all for this round of our Coffee Review. Tune in next time for some new coffee spots in your favorite city!

xoxo,

Maddie <3

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