Problem: I noticed Margie's had opened in the strip mall along Broadway and I'm a big fan of indie coffeehouses in the Valley, so I thought I'd check it out. Unfortunately, Margie's isn't even in the same league as the other nearby coffeehouses in Tempe. Margie's doesn't really have a distinct personality. It's just a standard strip mall store, with the typical wooden coffeehouse chairs and generic art. It's uncluttered, but it feels like someone just bought some furniture at Costco or a restaurant supply store. With regards to the coffee, my opinion is "Meh". They have a no-skill-required push-button espresso machine, which immediately turns me off. If I want espresso that requires no skill to make, I can go to Starbucks. I ordered a double espresso and it met my low expectations. It really didn't have much flavor, other than a lot of bitterness. The whole feel of Margie's gives me the impression that the owners aren't really into running a coffeehouse, but seemed to think that the coffee/pastries/breakfast sandwiches business was an easy thing to get into and be successful. Overall, I think that they're competing directly with Starbucks, but giving customers no reason to go out of their way to come here. Margie's is trying to do what Starbucks does, but not doing it anywhere near as well, and they're certainly not coming close to offering the same quality and experience as the excellent indie coffeehouses around Tempe. The hours are 5:30am to 2:30pm, which are clearly targeting the morning commuters and lunchtime crowd. While the prices may be a little lower than Starbucks, I'm not really sure Margie's is worth going out of the way for, especially with several Starbucks in the area. For myself, I'll stick with the far superior coffeehouses nearby.
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A: negative

Problem: The reviews are kind of all over the place, so not sure what to gather except for our own experiences. This is a usual place we hit up when in town. But creatures of habit as we are, we always stick to the same dishes... can't miss right. And they're always excellent. Spicy Scezchuan beef soup... it's got some serious kick but so flavorful. Yes spicy, but with the proper ratio of flavors. Pai Goo noodles, which is basically a pork chop with noodles... Simple, tasty, and very fresh. Spicy cucumbers... accompaniment of some fresh veggies. Congee... all very tasty. Again, comfort food with great flavors. All the above tend to be on the somewhat lighter, brothy side. Would love to try some of the other dishes, like any of the fried noodles. And yes, as the name implies why wouldn't i? Well, bc it's all pretty damn greasy and as tasty as that may sound, and as much as i like not having to put on any lip gloss, it's just all way too heavy. And i think that's where some of the negative reviews might come in. Service was solid, not 5 star Fancy LV restaurant, but yunno, it's a $13/bowl of noodle level of service. It is however, clean. And fast. Fresh. Tasty. So, basically, it's what most of us want in a good chinese restaurant that is unbelievably difficult to find. Very affordable, fresh, tasty, comfort food, in a clean setting. Trust me, that ain't easy when it comes to Chinese food.
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A: positive

Problem: I went here a few months ago, I stopped in as a detour from Starbucks and the receptionist was very kind. She informed me there was an opening for a one hour introductory appointment with a "skilled therapist". I said "great", I'll give it a try and moved forward with the introductory appointment. Which I believe was $49. Not bad! The gentleman was out within about five minutes and led me to the back room. It was clean, no smell, no noise. Had hooks to hang up your clothes on and the usual "I take tips" envelope that sat directly in your line of vision. After the hour was up, I wasn't that satisfied with the actual massage and wouldn't have considered him exactly an expert. He seemed to be playing an intense version of pitypat on my body at times. As an expert "massage receiver", I've learned the difference between a good, a well done and a superb. This trip was simply a "good". Ill try them again since I just moved to the area. Probably with a different therapist. Not to mention, Starbucks was next door! Can't beat a caramel frappuccino after a couple of minutes of relaxation! They also have a monthly club. Similar to Massage Envy! Try it out, I'd be interested to know others experience as well!
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A: positive

Problem: No more chasing down the food truck! Amazing restaurant layout. Perfect to book a party. The extended menu is genius. Ten different kinds of Mac n cheese? Nothing wrong with that.
How would this review be described?
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A:
positive