Philadelphia

325 Chestnut, Philadelphia (Rating: C)

Anonymous: Was so dark and empty that I thought they were closed. Again could not see menu boards without being up against glass by where you order. Paper menu was on counter. Clean. Bathroom included. So much signage that I was overwhelmed. Dining area was clutter free and open. No cosi logo outside. Didn't know it was cosi till I was right there. Other businesses have awnings around this location. Put them up so it looks like other Cosi's. Get some lights on. No one can tell it's a cosi or order from the dimly lit board. Only location I've been to that employees haven't been friendly and engaging. Took one photo with no lighting assist to give an idea. Other 2 are backlit.

This location needs to look like other Cosi units. Two blocks from tourist area independence hall, liberty bell. They are traveling. Possibly looking for something they know. Or better yet have never been to Cosi. This is not how you impress a customer. Disappointed.

Only reason not a D is close proximity to tourist trap. Without the location this should be closed.

Jennifer:  This is an urban COSI located on a nice street corner downtown.

• The chairs and tables were dated but clean.  There was plenty of seating.

• The floor was stone and in good shape physically, but could stand to be swept. Given the time (11:30am, right before lunch), the floor should not be dirty.

• The outside awning was black and white, not consistent with the colorful logos in the suburban locations.

• At lunchtime, there was a steady flow of traffic for both eat-in and dine-out.  

• The staff was quite friendly.

• The registers were less cluttered because they put the “impulse buy” items in coolers near where customers wait in line instead of on top of the register bank.  

• Give it a B.