Black Diesel Coffee

I had not been there for years, but a barista at Cafe Liv recommended their beans. I was very impressed with where they had come. Initially their lattes tasted like they were brewed in bus muffler, like Biggby. But, upon trying them now, so much difference. I put it on par with mighty good and roos. They are roasting their own beans now. I enjoyed their Burundi, Holidays Blend. and Victor's blend (Espresso). However, their Cafe Liv blend (exclusive to that cafe) is worth the trip to ypsilanti. Their staff are pleasant, but my first return trip on a Sunday afternoon, they seemed not in good spirits. But early Saturday morning, they were friendly and chipper. The atmosphere has the diesel character. Baked goods are nice too. Plenty of Gelato. Tea selection good, but their tea lattes are not great. Parking and Location are tricky if not a walker. Seating is good. Also close enough for a stroll around that part of A2. No notes on the bathroom yet.

I was excited to try Black Diesel Coffee after it was recommended to me emphatically by a current patron. The staff was friendly and professional, and the cafe itself looked clean. There is a printer in the corner; though I didn't use it, this might be something to look into for people that want a cafe to study/work at. Several people were working on computers, while others were talking in an open area. It looks like a nice place to hang out!

My cappuccino was aesthetically pleasing and the right temperature. The foam was deliciously bitter and airy, and the rest of the coffee was also on point. A great experience, and far better than your average Starbucks cappuccino. The smallest size (piccolo) is $3.75, which is within the expected price of your average Starbucks tall espresso-based drink.

In summary, I would highly recommend Black Diesel for their lovely cappuccino, and it looks like a good place to stay a while too!

Black Diesel is a great all around place to enjoy quality coffee, with one caveat; the employee turnover.

If you're into craft coffee, Black Diesel has a rotation of quality coffee from all the great regions--Africa, South America, etc. They also use these coffees for their "on tap" drip blends, which is a nice touch--no cheap house blend here!

The only small problem is they have a seemingly high employee turnover rate. This means ordering things like a French Press, Aeropress, or other specialty brewing method, may yield inconsistent results, or, no results at all--barista didn't know how to use a french press, one time we went there.

Staff is usually attentive and kind, which shows they're attention to hiring people who want to be there; even if it's for a short amount of time.

This is the best coffee I've ever had out of over 100 places that I've tried. Their coffee is so smooth. They truly know their craft.

It was refreshing encountering baristas who were knowledgeable about coffee and not just their own cafe. They represented their shop well, and at the same time, they could speak about the other great place around town. Well crafted coffee. However, some of the beans they were selling were almost 2 months off roast. Still, 5 star experience from a fantastic cafe!

In overall coffee and food experience: the espresso is very flavorful without being overpowering. The food is overall tasty and is presented well.
Coffee shop experience: The coffee shop is very quiet, which is nice for studying, but it feels more like a library.
Staff: They are friendly, though I would have loved a suggestion or a hello before I had reached the counter. Since this was my first time here, I took an extra bit of time to process the menu and my options. The cashier did not seem to want to talk or ask any probing questions.
Overall: I feel this young coffee shop has room for improvement. With a base of good espresso and good food it should be simple.

Love the vibe in here, the Brasil dark roast was some of the best I have ever had, uniquely smooth and less acidic than what I am used to. Didn't try them but the pastries looked insane. They do board game nights during the Spring and Summer, and that's always a huge plus for me!

Well kept and clean, the aesthetic was lovely and the employees were kind and helpful. Food and coffee were delicious. Definitely going to come in again!

Always clean, and delicious coffee. Lattes are always frothed consistently, and have homemade seasonal flavors

Awesome Coffee Cave ! Fabulous finished basement feel ! Unique Coffee, friendly staff. If I could, I would compliment the owner