Cool Beanz- Rock Island

This place is so cute and cozy! My oatmeal was delicious; it comes with your choice of three toppings. My Fireside Spice latte was enjoyed by the fire and it was lovely. I got it half sweet which was perfect for me, but if you prefer your lattes sweet I don’t get the impression that even the full sweet latte would be saccharine.

I remember the space Cool Beanz occupied at the top of the hill going up 30th street. They had a fireplace, a mix of comfy chairs and tables, and board games! I remember coming there with friends to catch any manner of live music. When I moved back to the area a few years ago, I remember being almost crestfallen that they appeared to be closed.

Finding out Cool Beanz had reopened next to Bent River in Rock Island was, of course, a delightful discovery. I thus decided to visit on a day off work after the New Year.

The new space is a little cozier than I remember their last one. It definitely retains many of the features of the shop on 30th - there's a fireplace in one of the corners, plenty of tables and chairs, and a collection of board games in another corner. The overall decoration and trappings of this shop make it just a little darker and more intimate than the former, however. The two largest walls in the space are a mix of red masonry brick and white painted concrete blocks with small accent lights spaced throughout. Blending well with the red brick is the concrete slab floor, which has been painted a dark red and partially covered with several large area rugs. Though some of the ceiling is exposed with conduit and cable running to lighting, outlets, and other terminations, the center also has a black drop ceiling suspended, which covers most of the HVAC ductwork and also provides additional ceiling fans and additional incandescent lighting in a modern looking centerpiece. The whole of the decoration and design combine to result in a cozy, yet eclectic atmosphere.

The only thing that detracted from the atmosphere, and at that only slightly, was the choice of music during the visit. The entirety of the time I was in the space, Cool Beanz had an 80s/90s/00s mix of pop music playing. On the whole, this was fine - it's not offensive in its content and it was played at a noise level that was condusive to quiet conversation or individual study/work. I also fully acknowledge I don't know what Cool Beanz is playing most of the time for music. I guess this paragraph is more about me and my preferences than it is a out Cool Beanz...I prefer a mix of light classical, Indie pop/rock, or something more eclectic with my hot beverages. But it was quiet and not overwhelming during my visit, and as such I can't really complain.

I opted on this trip for what is a common choice for other visits to coffee shops - a tea and a pastry. Specifically, I got a jasmine green tea and a chocolate chip cookie. The tea, while definitely green tea, lacked what I would expect from a jasmine green - smooth, slightly sweet, and a little floral. A solid green tea it was, nonetheless. I was far happier with the cookie. It was dense, almost more biscuit-like in texture and crumbly than soft and cakey. I definitely prefer this crumblier, denser style pastry when I'm having a hot tea.

I'm definitely happy that Cool Beanz is open and thriving again in Rock Island. I look forward to returning to sit by the fireplace again with a tea in the future. See you next time!

Very disappointed in service and quantity of drink. We were a group of four, first in line, ordered 2 coffees, smoothie, and energy drink. 32 minutes later we had all four drink served to us and then the lady told as she did not charge us for the smoothie. (Yes she did, look at the receipt). Energy drink was Red Bull with little blue raspberry flavoring. Smoothie was 1 banana with ice , water, and whip cream. Very disappointed in the quality. On another note the coffee was good.

I love Cool Beanz. The drinks are delicious and the prices are just right. They have a small lunch menu as well. I've always been impressed by their salads and sandwiches.

My white chocolate mocha has gotten bitter in the last few months, I love the people who work there and service is always amazing!

I have actually been there twice. Both times the staff was attentive, friendly and accommodating. The environment was inviting and not too loud or chaotic.Yesterday I was there for the second time. I was having a rough morning. The staff without knowing were cheerful and custom made my order. It was delicious. They checked up on me and genuinely cared that it was to my liking. One staff that had come in after I had ordered and was clearing some tables. I stopped her to tell her how much my visit made my day easier. She took a few minutes and sat down to talk with me. Now that's personal attention. I may have found a place here in this new to town...well actually I have. They care about what they do and the coffee and food is amazing!

Very nice small coffee place with AMAZING breakfast burritos. I would recommend coming here just for the burrito to be honest.

I'm not a big coffee guy but I still enjoyed their drinks. They also slap some latte art on top of the foam.

(Also you get a whole burrito but I ate half of the one in the picture 😁)

Cool Beanz is the best! They've got amazing drinks and staff, and they're pastries and food are delicious. They're a staple in the Quad Cities!

New location on 24th Street next to Bent River Brewing. Same great coffee and excellent new location. It's my new favorite place in Rock Island and my regular morning stop. Enjoyed their previous location, but this new place is just as good.

One of the best coffee shops around. They always have interesting lattes to try.