There are folks that just do not get Phil, the owner of The Ugly Mug. It is, most likely, that you will see Phil at the front counter. I like Phil. He is matter of fact. Others might want some phoney who smiles like a big happy balloon. Phil isnt mean. He is just not false. Some people dont get the difference. In any case, the beverages are great, fairly priced. Also, Phil is also one of the few in the OC that give Spoken Word a comfortable venue. He really doesnt ask much in return; just follow logical directions, dont put your feet on the furniture, dont act like a jerk. In exchange he has given Two Idiots Peddling Poetry a fantastic home. Ben Trigg and Steve Ramirez host this reading and consistently bring in quality Spoken Word features like actress Amber Tamblyn, Brendan Constantine, Robert Wynn and so many others. For years, every Wednesday (except during Covid, of course) they have been doing this. In addition to the features, open readers can read 3 poems or 5 minutes. (whichever comes first) Tonight was the second of the return of live readings. Masks are required. It was a stellar duo feature. The crowd was small, but lively. A good time for all. Next week one of the powerhouses of OC poetry, (and publisher) Eric Moragowill, be celebrating his birthday Wednesday, September 29th. Morago is one of those poets that people who dont like poetry, love. This event will.most likely draw a bigger crowd. Sign-ups for the open reading are at 7:30.-ish. Reading begins at 8:00pm. Only $4.00. But maybe you dont care about any of that. You will still find a cozy cafe, with good coffee, hot chocolate, and some tasty snacks, like (what I took home) Almond Dark Chocolate Biscotti. Yum!

This is one of my favorite coffee shops out of all the ones Ive visited in this region. The meals and coffee were as expected: pleasant and precise. Furthermore, the server who served my food at the time was really nice and friendly. Their shop piqued my interest. It was secure, engaging, and well worth the risk. Oh, thank you very much!

Lazy in the morning? This coffee shop is the perfect spot to go if you want to enhance your day. These people have the greatest coffee, which may inspire you to be more efficient and start your day off correctly. The service is also excellent, and Im confident that these people will be well-known. Thank you for the excellent coffee, gentlemen! Continue your good work!

The place is really cozy. I love it. I didnt get to taste any of their coffee, coz I was there on a poetry night and one of their best poets were reading that night. I had the best experience. The place feels like home. Hot coffee, dark cozy nooks, dim lights, soft music, and great poetry.

Cozy atmosphere. Poetry reading and open mic nights. I ordered an iced chai latte and it was scrumptious and a great way to wind down from an especially hot day. Its also within walking distance to Old Town Orange, which is nice.

Was really excited about checking out this local coffee shop. Unfortunately we walked in at prime time on a Friday night and it took about 2 minutes for anyone to show up to take our order.On a positive note, this place has so much potential. Id love to see the service get better and for this to become a chill spot for Friday night outers.

Best coffee in town! Ive been coming here for 20+ years! Beautiful little old house, comfortable for reading or studying, great atmosphere, and good for people watching. My favorite drink is a large mocha. Simple drink with great flavor, yummy (not at all bitter) espresso, drink is not too sweet.

We come here almost every week for the poetry open mic. The owner (Phil, the man behind the counter) has the harried shopkeeper vibe down pat. Dont take his gruff exterior too seriously. Highly recommend the smoothies and the Milky Way blended drink.

Poetry reading was well attended, an adoring crowd assembled to celebrate the words of Daniel McGinn.

Great coffee and food. They dont have the ordinary menu either. With an assortment of specialty coffee drinks, its definitely worth a taste. Located in the heights, its a great place to park and walk around.

I hate the old guy at the first. So rude and not helpful at. That instantly killed the vibe of the night. We didn’t even go inside it was that horrible.*** if I could give it a negative star I would.

Ugly mugg is always great there known the owner yrs and he is always been pleasant with his business....also do womans mtgs Tuesday also yrs being there love it

Unconventional poetry readings. Great snacks. Seating not especially comfortable. Dark venue.

Really like the Wednesday night poetry readings! Eight oclock to ten when the place closes.

Unless u have big pockets, or large breasts then do not expect any or service at all. Yes this man will refuse customers. Peace out Ugly Mug

A great place to relax and enjoy conversation with a verity of people.

Lol. Got a good chuckle reading the reviews. Yes, the owner is a notorious dick. Yes, the coffee is average, and yes the snacks are worse. Bad service, general bad vibe around the place... Weve all wondered why this place endures.

Adorable comfortable room

Great place to lounge and have meetings

Best coffee in orange.

Great place to meet.

Small space great hot chocolate

Great service and delicious coffee

Felt like being in the coffee house back home in New Hampshire.

The best coffee in town

Apparently it is closed on sundays, so the info posted is not accurate

Not Starbucks, thats worth stars. Wasnt impressed with the ALWAYS unsmiling (on several trips over the years) and impolite employee. Maybe its the owner? Hes kind of a jerk.

Great coffee shop

Visited for their hosting of a weekly poetry night

Rude white man at the counter

Always working hard to serve us!

Awsome ranking