Coffee and Cotton

Leaving three stars cause I loved the atmosfere and the staff was nice and friendly. Unfortunately, the cappuccino was not good, to say the least. The classic grilled cheese, on the other hand, was amazing. I will be coming back for a second chance.

A little warning for trans/NB folks: the server called my name out loud, using the name that automatically showed up from my debit card payment, which caught me off guard. I was told I was gonna get called when ready but since I wasn’t asked for a name, I assumed they were just going to say the name of the food/drink I ordered. I can’t even imagine if I was a trans person without updated documents, how hurtful it would have been to be called out loud in front of other people by my deadname. Debit card name and last name also showed up in big letters on the screen that I used to pay at the register, potentially visible to other people in line. I recommend either asking them to be discreet/use a preferred name or pay with cash directly.

Such a cool place! Visiting for the first time I thought I was trying to locate a speakeasy, what with the gravel alley and rickety elevator to the 4th floor of the old mill building. Upon exiting, it wasn't immediately clear which shop to enter, which was part of the fun. For my future self, it's right, left, down the hall, and on the right. Inside, the colors are warm and the staff are friendly. There are lots of places to sit in a space that's almost library like, but doesn't feel crowded. A semi-private game space with a large table for six is nestled against one wall, and I felt like it could double as an impromptu meeting room. I had a breakfast sandwich and coffee that were both delicious. The cafe's signature latte flavor at the time of my visit seemed to be maple caramel and I recommend it highly.

I love coffee and cotton.

I have enjoyed it's evolution from sleepy Library coffee shop to a coffee bar.

The decor over time has shifted from deep comfortable couches to utility seating, losing some of the charm that once drew me.

That is not to say though that it's really lost any of the essence of the place. The coffee is great. The food fresh. The decorations and atmosphere wonderful.

Do I want them to bring back a few softer chairs... Yes.

Do I want more library books.. yes.

Is it still my favorite coffee shop; Yes. We all have to grow up, and they've done it well.

(2018-01)

Decor notes: rustic, funky, mill building. Seating and tables very functional chairs and tables perfect for working.

First off mill 5 is amazballlls the coffee here was ok not the best but def good ! I got a valilla bean
Latte way to much foam but other then that BOMB spot and atmosphere in there.

The BLT is phenomenal. Love the grilled cheese of the month!

Great food and drink and music in the best hidden secret in lowell, mill 5.

Coffee and Cotton, on the 4th floor of Mill No. 5 in Lowell, shares the floor with a variety of interesting shops. Coffee and Cotton has a loyal set of customers, and deservedly so. The coffee served is quite good (I had both a macchiato and a cappuccino on my first visit). The baked goods looked and smelled delicious. And the atmosphere/decor is great!

I visited on a Friday evening to participate in their twice-monthly open mike, and Jed, the host of the open mike, was friendly, helpful, and competent. This place definitely caters to a younger crowd. It's a great place to perform or listen to music. The audience was attentive and appreciative of the many musicians that shared their talents from the stage. I had their grilled cheese of the month and my wife had their BLT ... there is plenty of room for improvement in the quality of their sandwiches; thus they get a four star review rather than a five star review. I'll definitely visit again!

Love this place, such good atmosphere and a real hidden gem. I always feel like I'm going to speak easy or something when I go into Mill No 5. Also, their products are to die for. Super great coffee, kombucha on tap, lovely sandwiches. And...they have maple syrup in a bottle at the condiment bar. The best thing ever.

service is friendly and efficient. we were lucky enough that it was a bit slow, and we got seats at the counter. the food was exactly what you expect. not healthy, but certainly delicious, and it's always fun to experience one of these local institutions that is so beloved. we were very happy with our experience, and would recommend it to others.

The first time I came here, I was so taken by the warm ambiance, cool location, good food/drink and friendly service. Subsequent visits, however, have not matched up. The service is hit or miss. If you don't stand right in front of them while you wait, they are likely to forget your order (even though they ask for your name... they never seem to call it). Also, the window seats could be so charming if they weren't so filthy and stained.