lux right on central is the hallowed hipster coffee spot. it's quirkily curated interior whose modern cinder block walls hold work from local artists while an assortment of work tables, lounge areas, raw wood low coffee tables, family style table with antiquities (old teal typewriters) are scattered throughout the coffee shop. it can be difficult to find a space to study or sip but the expansion to a back room and a fully stocked bar makes it slightly easier to snag some corner to have creative meetings or afternoon sip sessions. the only issue is that it can be packed and the music can be hit or miss sometimes it verges too much on the electronic and sonically obscure and you al pat think that your phone is constantly ringing.
the coffee is some of the best in central phoenix. the velvet is a popular item but it's most stellar component is the in house made espresso whip cream that the dollop on top of it. the whip cream is that one item that strikes chords every time i see it unveiled to finish off someone's drink. i tend to stick to hot drinks here and the basic cappuccino which is executed well.
the addition of a full kitchen which is open, an always happy thing in my book, means breakfast, lunch, and dinner offerings are available. the breakfast sandwich is a personal favorite. placed inside an english muffin a fried egg, bacon, cheese, and stovetop roasted tomatoes make for a killer crispy and satisfying combo. another favorite is their mac and cheese (options to add jalapeño and bacon, do it!) and since the kitchen cranks outfooduntil late it's one of the few non fastfoodoptions as midnight approaches. their pastries baked in house are equally enticing and sit in behind a glass barrier and make it feel like your window shopping, tempted always as you approach the counter to order your drink.
overall, the cafe that i've ways known as the one that was one of the first in catalyzing a cafe culture. unfortunately, sometimes service is slow and not warm or friendly, the ambiance can sometimes feel slightly overly done and trying to be something, and though it moves fast the lines can be long. despite all this, still one of those great spots to grab a mug of mac and a macchiato and chat with a couple of friends.