Fosko Coffee Barre

Good afternoon,
I would like to start off by saying how I have appreciated being at the coffee bar. In the 13 days of 2023 alone, I have spent over 60 hours and dollars in this establishment. Since I moved back home a year and a half ago, this has been a place that I have shared with countless friends and family members. As the Executive Director of a local profit, I have raved about this establishment in the community and used this place as a way to introduce visitors to Pensacola. However, I must submit this grievance and unfortunately sever any ties with the establishment.

Today, when I solicited this establishment, things were quite different. I came into a busy Fasko-- something that is not unusual on a bright and airy Saturday morning. I sat in a tiny seat that barely fit my long 6'1" frame let alone all of my books, computers, etc. So, I moved to the bar, because there were three others sitting in the area and my large spread, I strategically moved to a table close to one of the very limited outlets (which I am not complaining about). I sat at a four person table top with all of my items needed for a productive work session. Behind me sat a couple at a four person table top as well. This was about 11:08 am.

Because of the rush, the owner chose me to move to the section of the establishment with a quaint two person table top and no outlets. I expressed that I'd prefer to stay on the side of the establishment I was currently seated. Luckily, there was a table opening up that was smaller and close to the outlet.

At 11:47 am, after complying, the owner / GM made it a point to come to me and ask if I was going to order because he can't just lose money. I understand this. I informed him that I come in here multiple times a week, and work long hours especially on weekends and I would indeed purchase something at 12:00 (BECAUSE in intermittent fasting right now) and when the line dies down.

I would not have a problem with this, however, as 6'1 Black man with dreads, I cannot help but employ the idea that there was some kind of bias (whether implicit or explicit) in play. His tone sucked but something else is more critical to know. Since our encounter, there were three separate instances when someone or others sat down without ordering, or at a table that larger parties could sit. One guy came in and began working for 34.15 minutes before he decided to order, at no time did the owner/GM approach him--I WATCHED EXPECTANTLY! A lady came in, sat at the bar for 20 minutes on her phone and left, not because the owner/gm urged to purchase the needed Fasko product to be here--she just left. Again, I watched and waited for someone to have the same encounters that I did, nothing. Lastly, there was a cute couple that came and sat at the same table I was at. They eventually ordered (15 min or so after seating--I heard her say, "the line is too long, let's just wait until some of them leave."). They ordered, sat back down and multiple parties of 3+ and strollers came in looking for seating, ordered and left (one decided to sit outside). In all these instances, the individuals were white.

I am writing to express my extreme dismay. I came into this establishment expecting to feel the same level of comfort as I have in my many visits prior. I was expecting to feel safe and have clear thoughts as I worked and sipped on good coffee. However, I felt unnecessarily targeted. This is not a good feeling to have and one cannot help but ponder the "why me" question. Why was I the only one approached in this section? What about me made it easy for him to target and unapologetically have me move? Why would he assume that I would not support his business solely because I delayed my purchase (as several others did)? WHY ME?

Again, I have enjoyed the space, the food, the coffee and the other workers over the past year and a half. I hate that this situation had to happen and LEAVE ME to feel pressed, targeted and embarrassed (neither one of his requests were personal nor quiet).

Such a good style of this place. Colors and shades are absolutely matched. Coffee is nice, crepes are delicious. Cozy home atmosphere

Great rustic, classic modern vibe. Almost steam-punky with old natural brick walls and lots of cool old copper coffee machines. Their crepes are very good. Their coffee is great. And they have a decent variety of seating. Including outside seating.

I got the Irish breakfast Crepe and a mocha latte. The service was fast and also attentive

I can say that fosko is the best coffee shop in Pensacola. I drive 8 miles just to have their latte. There is only one issue with this place is customer service. The employee is very rude when they are taking orders. When I say “hello” “ how are you? “ or thank you they don't even respond to you.

Great little coffee bar! They will also spike your coffee with Bailey's or whiskey. Although it was $6 for a shot added to my coffee it was really good. I probably wouldn't justify $6 though. Quick service and a very clean place. The staff was friendly and I definitely will go back.

Typically a great hangout. The music is always on point and the way they brew there coffee is different from any average shop. Seating is meant for small groups but the atmosphere is always fun. The staff are usually very welcoming, offer to refill water, and take cups if needed. If they get busy, sometimes they'll be a little less enthusiastic about extra requests or will just automatically put things in to-go cups but usually are pretty awesome. They're known for their crepes as well as their coffees and cocktails.

Love this place so much! Any time I'm working in the office, I have to come here to get my day started. All of the drinks that I've tried have been phenomenal, customer service is top notch, and the atmosphere is welcoming. I highly recommend!

I loved all the food and coffee. I waited a bit long for my crepe but they so generously gave me refund without me asking! 10/10 would recommend.

First time at this place. It was a great coffee and friendly baristas. I've always wanted a fancy coffee so this place met my expectation. Music was a bit loud when I went but overall great experience