Crema Wasilla Review: An Honest Look at Alaska’s Favorite Coffee House
Crema Coffee House & Pastries: A Cozy Culinary Gem in Wasilla, AK
Nestled in the heart of Wasilla, Crema Coffee House & Pastries has carved out a reputation as a must-visit destination for locals and travelers alike. With a stellar 4.6-star rating from over 570 reviews, it’s clear this isn’t just another coffee shop. It’s a beloved local institution known for its consistently delicious baked goods, quality coffee, and inviting atmosphere. But does it live up to the hype? We dove into the details to give you a complete picture.
Atmosphere & Ambiance: A Stylish, Cozy Retreat
Visitors frequently describe Crema’s interior as “cozy,” “quaint,” and “stylish.” It’s designed to be a comfortable place to settle in with a warm drink and a treat. However, its popularity comes with a caveat: the space can get crowded, especially during peak hours. As one reviewer noted, seating can be limited, leading some patrons to enjoy their orders in their cars.
Despite the potential for a crowd, the establishment is consistently praised for being clean and well-maintained. Ample parking makes it an easy and convenient stop for those passing through Wasilla or for locals running errands.
The Main Attraction: Coffee & Handcrafted Pastries
While the ambiance is a draw, the food and drinks are the real stars at Crema. The pastry case is filled with a variety of fresh, tempting options that have earned a loyal following.
Must-Try Pastries:
- Spinach Feta Pastry: This is a standout favorite, praised for being “consistently good.” It’s a savory, flaky delight perfect for any time of day.
- Frittata: Another reliable savory option, the frittata is often served with salsa and is a go-to for many regulars.
- Bear Claw: A classic pastry done right, noted by customers as simply “good.”
- Scone with Chili Butter: This unique offering gets special mention. While the scone itself is described as very soft, the accompanying chili butter provides a memorable, spicy kick.
- Sweet Treats: For those with a sweet tooth, the Raspberry Twist and the Chocolate Strawberry Cupcake are highly recommended.
Coffee & Drinks:
The drink menu at Crema is solid, featuring well-made coffee classics and teas. Patrons have enjoyed everything from rich Americanos and refreshing Blueberry Tea to decadent Frappes. One interesting point raised by a visitor is the potential lack of a visible drink menu. While this might seem odd, it encourages interaction with the staff, who are well-equipped to help you find your perfect beverage.
Service: Consistent Quality with Room for Polish
The service at Crema receives overwhelmingly positive feedback. Staff members are frequently described as “polite and pleasant,” and the establishment is lauded for its “top notch and consistent” quality. One long-time customer emphasized their loyalty, stating they’ve “never once been let down.”
However, it’s worth noting that not every experience is perfect. One visitor felt the service was “subpar,” describing an awkward welcome and an unfavorable tone when corrected on an order. While this appears to be an outlier, it’s a reminder that even the best places can have off-moments, particularly when busy.
Objective Analysis: The Secret to Crema’s Success
Crema’s success and high rating aren’t accidental. They are built on a foundation of two key principles: quality and consistency. The phrase “Crema always delivers” encapsulates the trust this coffee house has built with its community. The pastries aren’t just good once; they are reliably delicious every time. This is the hallmark of a truly great bakery and café.
The menu also offers a subtle nod to its Alaskan roots. The mention of a Rhubarb Crumble Muffin is a perfect example. Rhubarb grows exceptionally well in Alaska’s long summer days, making it a staple in local kitchens. Including it on the menu connects Crema to regional culinary traditions. Similarly, the inventive chili butter served with scones shows a willingness to experiment with bold flavors, setting it apart from more conventional coffee shops.
For visitors, Crema offers a genuine taste of local life in Wasilla. It’s not a tourist trap; it’s where residents go for a dependable and delightful experience. While it can be bustling, the quality of the food and the cozy environment make any potential wait worthwhile.
