E-word of mouth has become a vital form of marketing in the travel industry, especially in the F&B sector. Customers are giving more importance to these online consumer reviews over marketing efforts by restaurants and bars as they feel it presents a more honest guest's perspective, who have nothing to gain. But how legit are these reviews? We, as food-lovers and proud TIM students of UHM, will tackle these "best grinds" with our knowledge in service and hospitality, and of course our taste buds. Join us as we experience the good, bad, and bizarre, to see firsthand if these top-rated picks deserve the prestigious E-word of mouth ratings they were given.

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Episode 7: Wild Bean Espresso

Rating by Yelp.com: 3 ½ stars
Cuisine: Coffee & Tea, Shakes, Food Stands
Price Range: Inexpensive, Under $10


Lunch wagons are increasingly becoming a popular concept here on Oahu and a variety of trucks are popping up with different concepts rather than the typical “lunch” wagon concept. Halle Nguyen, owner of Wild Bean Espresso came up with one of the most unique concept of opening up a coffee truck and having her baristas dressed in lingerie while they prepare and serve drinks. Halle came up with this concept while attending school up in Seattle which was where she got exposed to similar concepts of entrepreneurship trucks and thought to herself, “Hey, why not open one in Hawaii? And so she did! Today she owns 2 trucks and will be opening up her third truck next month. So if you are looking for something to “perk” you up or a little eye candy, head on down to Wild Bean Espresso located conveniently along Waimanu Street near Ward Center.

My experience at Wild Bean Espresso was definitely a unique one because it was my first time trying it out.  Wild Bean Espresso knows how to truly lure in customers to try their refreshingly wonderful drinks with their friendly attitude and unique uniform.  When I first approached the truck, I was greeted by all three lovely ladies and was immediately introduced the menu and their popular menu items.  My drink was made to order and did not take very long.  As they were making my drink, they constantly made small conversation with me on whether or not I like my drink more on the sweet side or not, which shows me they’re being interactive with their customers.  After receiving my drink and having a taste, it was made with just the right amount of added liquid sugar and the espresso and chocolate was mixed to the right amount, making my iced mocha not too bitter, not too sweet, but just how I like it.  The only disadvantage they have is they’re located around a construction area therefore the loud noise can become very overwhelming.  Parking although may not be an issue for me when I went, but could be an issue to many others because there is absolutely no parking around the area so customers can only park on the side of the street for a short time to purchase drinks.


Likes
     Friendly Staff
     Personalize Flavor to Customer’s Preference
     Interaction with Customer

Dislikes
     No Parking
     Loud Construction Noise


Official Best Grindz Rating...4 stars!!!
Posted by Best Grindz Hawaii Edition at 1:05 AM

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