What is your feeling about Starbuck's now compared to 15 years ago?

Question

Do you feel the quality of the products are still as good? what about the service and atmospher? Has the vast proliferation ruined the charm and sense of "gourmet" they used to have?

and how long ago did you start going there?

Answer 1

I was a "regular" who enjoyed stopping every morning on my way to work. The atmosphere was wonderful. The old fashioned way the baristas made the espresso vs. the new automated machines, gave it a feeling that you were really in a coffee house. Now it feels so commercialized. Although they always had merchandise for impulse buying, the atmosphere is colder, and just not the same. Very much the chain store. The baristas are not as well trained (although some are great), and the stores just have the feeling they are out to make a buck, rather than to serve.

I now have my own machine, set up my own system at home, and make my own (superior) lattes. I figure the expensive, fully automated espresso machine paid for itself in about 6-8 months.

Yes, vast proliferation has ruined the charm and sense of gourmet.

Answer 2

They may have created the concept, but I would much rather visit my local business owner's cafe that offers the same gourmet atmosphere, friendly people and Internet service. There are too many popping up all over now to support Starbucks.

Answer 3

Espresso is still the same as 15 years ago. That's all I ever order there.

Answer 4

Over priced mundane tasting coffee, same as it was 15 years ago.

Answer 5

wow, they have been around for a long time.....sorry no answer to the question(not a coffee drinker) But wow, they have been around a while.

Answer 6

I wasn't allowed to drink coffee at that age, sorry