Despite the hard work and lost sleep you had a great experience.
In principle, a complimentary coffee is the best. I would already be a fan of that coffee shop!
Secondly, the good conversation that you don't find everywhere, with people who know the subject and last but not least, a coffee to take with you during a long trip.
That sounds pretty good to me!
It’s great that although the barista doesn’t know me he decided to give me a complimentary espresso. Conversation with him was also very joyful.